India Hosts UNESCO’s 20th ICH Session

India hosting UNESCO’s 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), a landmark moment in safeguarding living heritage.

Event Details
- Dates: 8–13 December 2025
- Venue: Historic Red Fort, New Delhi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Chair: H.E. Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO
- Significance: First time India is hosting the ICH Committee session.
- Occasion: Coincides with the 20th anniversary of India’s ratification of the 2003 Convention.

Purpose of the Convention
UNESCO’s 2003 Convention aims to:
- Safeguard intangible cultural heritage (oral traditions, performing arts, rituals, crafts, knowledge systems).
- Ensure respect for community practices.
- Raise awareness globally about cultural diversity.
- Promote international cooperation and assistance.

India’s Role & Contributions
- India has served three terms on the ICH Committee.
- 15 Indian elements inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List (e.g., Yoga, Durga Puja, Garba, Kutiyattam, Vedic chanting, Kumbh Mela).
- 2025 nominations: Chhath Mahaparva and Diwali.
- National safeguarding model combines institutional support, community participation, documentation, and inventories.
- Ministry of Culture & Sangeet Natak Akademi are nodal agencies for hosting.

Broader Impact
- Cultural Diplomacy: Showcases India’s diversity and soft power.
- Livelihoods: Supports artisans, performers, and craftspeople.
- Education: Preserves ecological practices, oral histories, indigenous wisdom.
- Global Leadership: Positions India as a key voice in heritage governance.
- Tourism & Development: Enhances cultural tourism and sustainable growth.

Key Takeaway
India’s hosting of the 20th UNESCO ICH session is both symbolic and strategic: it highlights India’s living heritage, strengthens its global cultural leadership, and underscores the importance of safeguarding traditions for future generations.