Union Culture Minister Confirms No Danger Level Categorisation for Heritage Sites in India

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed Parliament that India does not categorise heritage sites by danger levels. This statement was in response to MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi's inquiry about the risk status of heritage sites. She sought information on the percentage of sites at risk, factors contributing to these risks, and assessments on climate change impacts.

India currently boasts 43 world heritage properties. None of these are listed as endangered by UNESCO. The World Heritage Committee Meeting in New Delhi in July 2024 also did not flag any Indian sites as endangered. The minister confirmed this in his written response.

Heritage Sites Risk Assessment

Kanimozhi Karunanidhi further questioned if there is a categorisation of heritage sites into low, medium, or high danger levels. She also asked if any site has been downgraded from high to low danger in the past five years, particularly in Tamil Nadu. The minister clarified that no such categorisation exists.

Shekhawat stated that no properties in Tamil Nadu are on the World Heritage Danger List. He emphasised that the Archaeological Survey of India regularly evaluates climate change impacts on selected heritage sites under its care.

Government Initiatives and Studies

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change conducts various programmes and studies for natural world heritage properties. These efforts aim to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on these sites.

While there is no formal danger level categorisation, ongoing assessments help manage potential risks. The government remains committed to preserving India's rich cultural and natural heritage.