Delhi Forum Aims to Enhance Expertise in Protecting Heritage Sites

A forum for young professionals commenced on Monday, aiming to enhance their skills in protecting, preserving, and promoting world heritage sites. This event is part of the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) meeting, hosted by India for the first time from July 21 to July 31 in New Delhi.

The Ministry of Culture is organising the 2024 World Heritage Young Professionals Forum as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme. The forum is being held at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology in Greater Noida from July 14 to July 23. The theme for this year is "World Heritage in the 21st Century: Building Capacities and Exploring Opportunities for Youth."

Focus on Climate Change and Sustainable Development

This year's sub-themes will address climate change and sustainable development. Participants will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Qutab Minar, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb in Delhi, and the Taj Mahal in Agra. These visits aim to supplement their theoretical knowledge with practical insights.

The forum was inaugurated by Govind Mohan, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, alongside other notable figures such as Yadubir Singh Rawat, Director General of ASI, Vishal Sharma, Ambassador to UNESCO, Alok Tripathi, ADG Archaeology ASI, Janhwij Sharma, ADG ASI, and Ines Yousfi from UNESCO. The ministry stated that this event would enhance young professionals' expertise in heritage conservation.

Global Participation and Knowledge Exchange

Fifty young professionals from around the world are participating in this forum—20 from India and 30 from abroad. They will present their ideas and gain knowledge about global concepts of world heritage and sustainable development. This platform allows them to meet and learn about each other's heritage while discussing common concerns in preservation.

On the final day of the forum, these young professionals will present their Declaration to the 46th session of the WHC at Bharat Mandapam. This declaration aims to implement the World Heritage Convention effectively in today's context.

The forum also provides an opportunity for inter-cultural learning and exchange between young people and heritage experts. Officials said it helps youngsters discover new roles for themselves in heritage conservation while fostering a collaborative environment.

Through discussions with local and international experts, participants will acquire deep insights into managing India's local heritage. This initiative aims to build capacities among youth to tackle contemporary challenges in heritage conservation effectively.

The event underscores India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage while engaging young minds globally.