India Hosts UNESCO’s 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi

**Executive Summary** The 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage, hosted by India in New Delhi, commenced with a message from the Prime Minister applauding UNESCO’s efforts. Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat reaffirmed India's commitment to safeguarding living traditions. The week-long session concludes on December 13, 2025. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Session Overview:** * The 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage begins at Red Fort, New Delhi. * The event was attended by Union Ministers Shri S Jaishankar and Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Delhi Smt Rekha Gupta, Director General of UNESCO Dr. Khaled El-Enany, and Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma. * **Prime Minister's Message:** * The Prime Minister's message applauded UNESCO's efforts and reaffirmed India's readiness to work with global partners to strengthen safeguarding measures. * The Prime Minister highlighted India's pride in its linguistic diversity, rich literature, and traditions. * **Ministerial Address:** * Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized the importance of languages, music, festivals, rituals, crafts, and oral traditions as heritage elements. * He noted India's commitment to cultural policy and international cooperation guided by "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." * India has 15 elements inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, out of 788 elements from 150 countries listed by UNESCO globally. * **Safeguarding Measures:** * Communities are the true custodians of cultural heritage. * India emphasizes initiatives like craft revival, community archiving, and market-linked livelihood support for artisans. * Greater youth involvement is encouraged through school curricula, vocational training, and digital platforms. * **Global Cooperation:** * The 20th Session is expected to strengthen global cooperation and lead to practical, community-led safeguarding measures. * India reaffirmed its dedication to protecting and promoting intangible cultural heritage worldwide. * **Cultural Performances:** * Delegates witnessed Indian art performances showcasing classical, folk, and contemporary traditions. **Impact Analysis** **UNESCO** * **Impact:** UNESCO's efforts are being recognized and supported by India. The event provides a platform for international cooperation in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. * **Action Required:** Continue efforts in identifying and promoting intangible cultural heritage globally, collaborating with member states like India. **Indian Government (Ministry of Culture)** * **Impact:** The event reaffirms India's commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage and provides an opportunity to showcase its initiatives. * **Action Required:** Continue implementing and strengthening national initiatives for craft revival, community archiving, and youth involvement in cultural preservation. **Local Communities and Artisans** * **Impact:** Recognition as custodians of cultural heritage and potential beneficiaries of safeguarding measures, including livelihood support. * **Action Required:** Engage in community archiving and participate in initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting their cultural traditions. **Youth** * **Impact:** Emphasis on greater involvement in cultural preservation through education, training, and digital platforms. * **Action Required:** Participate in school curricula, vocational training programs, and utilize digital platforms to learn about and contribute to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.

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