Why in news?
India is hosting the twentieth session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from 8 to 13 December 2025 at Delhi’s historic Red Fort. This is the first time the meeting is being held at a World Heritage site. Delegates from around the world are gathering to review policies and new nominations.
Background
The Intergovernmental Committee is the executive body of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The convention recognises living traditions—rituals, performing arts, craftsmanship, oral traditions and knowledge—passed down within communities. India ratified the convention in 2005 and has several elements inscribed, including yoga, Vedic chanting and the Kumbh Mela.
Functions of the committee
- Promotes and monitors implementation of the convention across member states.
- Prepares and updates operational guidelines and plans for the use of the Intangible Heritage Fund.
- Encourages best practices and international cooperation by sharing safeguarding experiences.
- Examines requests for inscription on the Representative and Urgent Safeguarding lists and evaluates international assistance requests.
Hosting the session at the Red Fort allows India to showcase its own safeguarding initiatives and emphasises the link between intangible heritage and sustainable development. Delegates will discuss community participation, the role of youth and ways to integrate intangible heritage into education and tourism policies.
Source: Press Information Bureau