India to host UNESCO World Heritage Committee Session in Delhi for first time

In a groundbreaking development, India is set to take the helm and host the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi from July 21 to 31 this year, announced Vishal V Sharma, the Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO on Tuesday.

India's selection to chair and host the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee is a historic milestone, marking the first instance of a country leading and hosting this prestigious gathering. The event places New Delhi as the epicenter for global discussions on preserving cultural and historical heritage.

As per the official statement by UNESCO, “At the 19th extraordinary session (UNESCO, 2023), the World Heritage Committee decided that its 46th session will take place in India.”

“Following a proposal by the authorities of the State Party of India, and in consultation with the UNESCO Director-General, the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee will take place from July 21 to 31, 2024 in New Delhi, India,” the statement by UNESCO added.

The crucial UNESCO World Heritage Committee session convenes annually, comprising representatives from 21 member states. Its primary function is to contribute significantly to the expansion of the esteemed list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in preserving cultural and natural treasures.