Red Fort to Host UNESCO Intangible Heritage Meet

The Red Fort in New Delhi is set to host the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage from 8–13 December. Over 1,000 delegates from more than 185 countries will attend, marking a major moment for India’s cultural diplomacy. The government aims to use the event to highlight the nation’s rich traditions and to reinforce confidence following the recent security incident near the monument.

Global Delegates Converge for Heritage Discussions

The session will assess nominations for inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It will also review the status of previously inscribed elements and consider international assistance for safeguarding vulnerable cultural practices. India currently has 15 accredited elements on the list.

India to Push Diwali for UNESCO Recognition

A key highlight will be India’s formal proposal to inscribe Diwali. The nomination seeks global recognition for the festival’s cultural, spiritual and social significance. This follows the successful listing of practices such as Durga Puja of Kolkata, Kumbh Mela, Garba of Gujarat, Yoga and Ladakhi Buddhist chanting.

Showcasing India’s Cultural Diversity at the Red Fort

The Red Fort complex will feature themed galleries, state-led cultural stalls and daily performances designed to narrate India’s civilisational heritage. The culture ministry plans to keep these installations open to the public for a month, extending the experience until the Republic Day celebrations.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The 20th session of the ICH Committee will run from 8–13 December in New Delhi.
• India has proposed Diwali for inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
• The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the venue for the meeting.
• India currently has 15 elements inscribed on UNESCO’s ICH Representative List.

Infrastructure and Preparations for the High-Level Meet

The culture ministry has prepared new galleries and strengthened facilities to host the international gathering. Officials emphasise that the event demonstrates India’s commitment to safeguarding living traditions while presenting a confident message from one of the nation’s most iconic monuments.