Assam government officials extended a warm welcome to Vishal V. Sharma, Chairperson of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO, as he arrived in New Delhi. Sharma, who also serves as India’s ambassador and permanent representative to UNESCO, was greeted with the traditional Assamese Gamosa, a symbol of respect and hospitality. This occasion marks a historic first for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the World Heritage Committee meeting is being held in India for the first time. The 46th session of the Committee will take place in New Delhi from July 21 to 31, 2024.
A significant highlight of this session is the anticipated inclusion of the Ahom-era Charaideo Maidam of Assam in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a cultural property. The Charaideo Maidam, known for its burial mounds of the Ahom kings, is the sole nominee from India in this session. If successful, it will become the first cultural property from the North-East region to receive this prestigious recognition. A total of 36 proposals from around the world will be considered for the World Heritage Site tag during this session. The people of Assam are eagerly awaiting the decision, hopeful that the Charaideo Maidam will secure its place in global cultural history.
The inscription of Charaideo Maidam as a World Heritage Site would not only highlight the rich cultural heritage of Assam but also ensure its preservation and recognition on an international platform.
