In A First, India To Chair, Host UNESCO World Heritage Committee; Check Dates Here

New Delhi: India is set to make history by chairing and hosting 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. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time a country leads and hosts this prestigious committee.

The event positions New Delhi as the focal point for global discussions on preserving cultural and historical heritage, offering a momentous opportunity to showcase India’s rich cultural legacy on the world stage.

#India to chair & host #UNESCO's World Heritage Committee for the 1st time in the convention’s history! The dates & venue of the 46th session have been announced: 21st to 31st July, 2024 in New Delhi (India). 🇮🇳 🇺🇳 #WHC pic.twitter.com/LiyY01Ke2B

— Vishal V. Sharma 🇮🇳 (@VishalVSharma7) January 8, 2024

According to UNESCO’s official statement, the decision for India to host the 46th session was made during the 19th extraordinary session in 2023. The session will take place in New Delhi from July 21 to 31, 2024, following a proposal by the State Party of India and consultation with the UNESCO Director-General.

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, serves as a specialized UN agency fostering global peace and national security through collaborative efforts in education, arts, science, and culture. The annual UNESCO World Heritage Committee session, which includes representatives from 21 member states, plays a crucial role in expanding the esteemed list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in preserving cultural and natural treasures.