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ONLiNE UPSC
The recent World Heritage Committee meeting held in Delhi had a crucial objective: to discuss and evaluate the protection and preservation of both cultural and natural heritage sites globally. This meeting also aimed to consider the addition of new sites to the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Several key outcomes emerged from the meeting. Notably, 24 new World Heritage sites were added to the list. Additionally, a Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) was signed with the United States. India committed $1 million to aid capacity building in African nations, Small Island Developing States, and Least Developed Countries.
Among the notable recognitions was the Moidams, a burial system of the Ahom dynasty located in Charaideo, Assam. This recognition brought India's total to 44 World Heritage sites, highlighting the country's rich cultural legacy.
The Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) serves as a safeguard against the illicit import, export, and transfer of cultural property. This agreement aligns with the 1970 UNESCO convention aimed at protecting cultural heritage.
Hosting the World Heritage Committee meeting underscored India's commitment to preserving cultural heritage. It also enhanced India's role in international cultural diplomacy, reinforcing initiatives under its G20 presidency, which emphasize the protection and promotion of cultural property.
The meeting played a vital role in advancing global cultural diplomacy. It fostered discussions that encouraged international cooperation and collaborations, showcasing India's efforts to support heritage preservation, particularly in developing and vulnerable regions.
India's vision, encapsulated in the phrase "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi," translates to "Development as well as Heritage." This reflects the country’s strategy to balance economic growth with the conservation and promotion of its cultural heritage.
The recognition of new World Heritage sites has significant implications for India. It not only boosts tourism but also encourages infrastructure development, enhancing India's cultural profile on the global stage. This recognition contributes to economic growth and job creation, further solidifying the importance of cultural heritage in national development.
Q1. What was the main agenda of the World Heritage Committee meeting in Delhi?
Answer: The meeting's main agenda was to discuss the protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites worldwide, as well as to consider new additions to the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Q2. How many new World Heritage sites were added during the meeting?
Answer: A total of 24 new World Heritage sites were added during the World Heritage Committee meeting held in Delhi.
Q3. What is the significance of the Moidams in Assam?
Answer: The Moidams were recognized as a new World Heritage site, reflecting the historical and cultural importance of the Ahom dynasty's burial practices in India.
Q4. What does the Cultural Property Agreement entail?
Answer: The Cultural Property Agreement aims to prevent the illicit trade of cultural property between India and the United States, aligning with global standards for cultural heritage protection.
Q5. How does recognizing World Heritage sites benefit India economically?
Answer: Recognition of World Heritage sites boosts tourism, leads to infrastructure development, and enhances India's global cultural profile, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the World Heritage Committee?
A) To promote global tourism
B) To evaluate cultural and natural heritage sites
C) To fund international projects
D) To establish trade agreements
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which site was newly recognized in India during the meeting?
A) Taj Mahal
B) Moidams
C) Red Fort
D) Hampi
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the Cultural Property Agreement (CPA)?
A) A trade agreement between countries
B) An agreement to protect cultural property
C) A financial aid package
D) A tourism promotion strategy
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How much did India commit to support capacity building in developing nations?
A) $500,000
B) $1 million
C) $2 million
D) $3 million
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What does "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi" signify?
A) Growth only
B) Heritage preservation only
C) Balancing development with heritage
D) Cultural tourism
Correct Answer: C
Question 6: Why is the meeting significant for India's cultural diplomacy?
A) It reduces international collaborations
B) It highlights India's commitment to cultural preservation
C) It focuses solely on economic growth
D) It limits India's global influence
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: How many World Heritage sites does India have after the recent addition?
A) 40
B) 44
C) 50
D) 30
Correct Answer: B
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