India’s Role in World Heritage: Vishal V Sharma Highlights Cultural Superpower Status
New Delhi [India], July 22: Vishal V Sharma, India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, emphasized the significance of the World Heritage Committee by highlighting India’s role as a cultural superpower and underscored India’s message for world development and heritage.
World Heritage Committee Session
The World Heritage Committee, which convenes annually, is tasked with managing all matters related to World Heritage and making decisions on the sites to be inscribed on the World Heritage List. The inauguration of the World Heritage Committee session took place on Sunday at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi and will run until July 31, 2024.
India’s Cultural Message
Speaking about India’s cultural influence, Sharma said, “India is a cultural superpower. ‘Sanskrit se Sanskriti, Sanskriti se Sanskar aur Sanskar se Sanskar djham, jaha sanskar sikhaye jate hai’… The message of India to the world is culture. India’s message to the world is development and heritage.”
Prime Minister’s Remarks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked that India’s heritage is not just history but science as well. He cited the example of the Rudreshwara Ramappa Temple, built in the 12th century with advanced shock-absorbing techniques and hard dolerite rock statues, showcasing ancient Indian technology.
Global Heritage Conservation
Sharma praised the Central government for its efforts in heritage conservation. He mentioned PM Modi’s announcement of a $1 million contribution to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for capacity building and technical assistance. PM Modi also highlighted India’s support for heritage sites in the Global South, including Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Cham Temples in Vietnam, and Bagan Stupa in Myanmar.
Future Initiatives
PM Modi announced the start of a certificate program in world heritage management for young professionals in India, furthering the country’s commitment to global heritage preservation.
Doubts Revealed
Vishal V Sharma -: Vishal V Sharma is a person who represents India at UNESCO, an important international organization that helps protect cultural and natural heritage around the world.
UNESCO -: UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It works to promote peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, and culture.
World Heritage Committee -: The World Heritage Committee is a group of people from different countries who decide which places in the world are so special that they should be protected for everyone to enjoy.
Cultural Superpower -: A cultural superpower is a country that has a lot of influence and importance because of its rich history, traditions, and contributions to art, music, and other cultural areas.
Capacity Building -: Capacity building means helping people and organizations develop the skills and resources they need to do their jobs better, like protecting important historical sites.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi -: Narendra Modi is the current Prime Minister of India, which means he is the head of the government and makes important decisions for the country.
Angkor Wat -: Angkor Wat is a very famous and ancient temple complex in Cambodia, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Bagan Stupa -: Bagan Stupa refers to the ancient Buddhist temples and pagodas in Bagan, Myanmar, which are important religious and historical sites.
