The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), an advisory body to UNESCO, has raised 'red flags' regarding the conservation efforts at three prominent Indian heritage sites. These sites are the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, the Group of Monuments at Hampi in Karnataka, and the Historic City of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. ICOMOS expressed concerns over the management and protection of these sites, indicating potential issues with their 'Outstanding Universal Value' (OUV). However, the panel gave a 'green flag' to the Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple in Telangana, acknowledging its good conservation status. This review is part of UNESCO's ongoing monitoring process for World Heritage Sites to ensure their proper preservation.

UNESCO Panel Raises Concerns for Manas, Hampi, Ahmedabad Sites

India possesses five astronomical observatories known as Jantar Mantars. These structures were built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the early 18th century. The five Jantar Mantars are located in Jaipur, Delhi, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. Among these, the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is the most famous and holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each Jantar Mantar features a collection of architectural astronomical instruments designed to measure time, predict eclipses, track stars, and determine celestial altitudes. The instruments are large, fixed structures made of stone and masonry, reflecting advanced scientific knowledge of the era. The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, built between 1727 and 1734, is particularly notable for its massive instruments, including the Samrat Yantra, which is the world's largest stone sundial.

India's 5 Jantar Mantars: UNESCO Site and Locations

Uttarakhand recently inaugurated its first GI Products Gallery in Mussoorie. This gallery showcases a wide range of products from the state that have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The main goal is to provide a platform for local artisans and farmers to display and sell their unique products. It also seeks to boost the economy of Uttarakhand by increasing awareness and demand for these special goods. The gallery will help in preserving traditional knowledge and skills associated with these products. This move is expected to attract tourists and buyers, thereby supporting the livelihoods of many people in the region. The Uttarakhand GI Products Gallery highlights the rich cultural and natural heritage of the state.

Uttarakhand Opens First GI Products Gallery in Mussoorie

Unjha cumin and fennel have recently been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. This recognition is expected to significantly boost the export potential and income for farmers in the Unjha region of Gujarat. Unjha is a renowned agricultural market, particularly famous for its spice trade. The GI tag ensures that only products originating from the specified geographical area and possessing unique qualities linked to that origin can use the name. This helps protect the authenticity of Unjha cumin and fennel against imitations. The move will also help in better branding and marketing of these spices on both national and international platforms. Farmers will benefit from premium pricing and increased demand for their authentic Unjha cumin and fennel.

Unjha Cumin and Fennel Get GI Tag: Boost for Gujarat Farmers

Italy currently holds the record for the country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As of 2024, Italy boasts 59 sites recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These sites include a diverse range of cultural and natural landmarks, from ancient Roman ruins to Renaissance cities and stunning natural landscapes. China follows closely behind Italy, holding the second position with 57 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Germany ranks third with 52 sites, while France and Spain share the fourth position, each having 52 sites. India is also a significant contributor to the list, with 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including 34 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed site. The UNESCO World Heritage list aims to identify, protect, and preserve cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.

Italy Leads with Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites Globally

Hyderabad Haleem, a famous dish from Hyderabad, India, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) certification. This certification was awarded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The GI tag signifies that Hyderabad Haleem possesses specific qualities or a reputation due to its geographical origin. It ensures that only Haleem prepared in the Hyderabad region, following traditional methods, can be marketed as 'Hyderabad Haleem'. This recognition helps protect the authenticity of the dish and prevents imitation. The GI tag for Hyderabad Haleem highlights its cultural significance and unique culinary heritage. This move is expected to boost the local economy and promote the traditional food industry in Hyderabad.

Hyderabad Haleem Gets GI Tag: A Culinary Recognition

Assam is actively pursuing UNESCO heritage tags for three significant cultural and historical assets. These include the traditional Bihu festival, the Vaishnavite culture of Majuli island, and the ancient Ahom capital of Rangpur. The state government believes that securing these tags will boost tourism and help in the global recognition and preservation of Assam's unique heritage. Bihu is a set of three important Assamese festivals celebrated throughout the year, marking different agricultural cycles. Majuli, the world's largest river island, is a hub of Neo-Vaishnavite culture, founded by Srimanta Sankaradeva. Rangpur served as the capital of the powerful Ahom kingdom, which ruled Assam for nearly 600 years. The initiative highlights Assam's commitment to showcasing its diverse cultural landscape on an international platform.

Assam Seeks UNESCO Heritage Tags for Bihu, Majuli, and Rangpur

India actively registers Geographical Indication (GI) tags for products unique to specific regions. A GI tag identifies goods originating from a particular geographical area, possessing qualities or a reputation due to that origin. The GI tag system helps protect traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. As of 2024, India has over 500 registered GI products, covering a wide range of categories like handicrafts, agricultural products, foodstuff, wines, and manufactured goods. Tamil Nadu holds the highest number of GI tags among Indian states. The Darjeeling Tea was the first product in India to receive a GI tag in 2004-05. The GI tag is crucial for promoting local economies and preventing unauthorized use of product names. The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, governs the registration and protection of GI tags in India.

GI Tags in India 2024: State-Wise List and Significance

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's national academy for music, dance, and drama, has recently inscribed three distinct cultural traditions from Madhya Pradesh into India’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) list. These traditions are 'Gwalior's Raga Dhrupad', 'The Art of Batik Printing' from Ujjain, and 'The Traditional Craft of Wooden Craftsmanship' from Budhni. This recognition aims to preserve and promote these unique cultural expressions. The Sangeet Natak Akademi plays a crucial role in identifying and documenting India's diverse intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its continuity for future generations. This initiative highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Madhya Pradesh and the importance of safeguarding traditional arts and crafts.

Sangeet Natak Akademi Adds 3 MP Traditions to Intangible Heritage

Eastern India has shown strong performance in securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for its unique products. The region, known for its diverse cultural heritage and traditional crafts, has seen a significant increase in GI registrations. In the financial year 2025-26, Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of new GI registrations across India. This achievement highlights the state's rich variety of indigenous products and the efforts made to protect their unique identity. GI tags help in promoting local products, ensuring quality, and preventing misuse of product names. The increased registrations from Eastern India and Madhya Pradesh contribute to the preservation of traditional knowledge and boost the economic prospects of local artisans and farmers. This trend also reflects a growing awareness and strategic focus on leveraging GI status for regional development.

Eastern India Leads in GI Registrations; MP Tops in 2025-26

The traditional sweet 'Jalbhara Sandesh' from Chandannagar, West Bengal, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition highlights the sweet's unique characteristics and its strong connection to the region. The 'Jalbhara Sandesh' is known for its distinct liquid jaggery or rosewater filling inside a solid sandesh shell. This sweet has a rich history, believed to have been created over 200 years ago by confectioner Surya Kumar Modak. The GI tag helps protect the authenticity of the 'Chandannagar Jalbhara' and prevents similar products from being marketed under the same name if they do not originate from the specified region. This move is expected to boost the local economy and promote the culinary heritage of Chandannagar.

Chandannagar Jalbhara Sweet Gets GI Tag: West Bengal Delicacy Recognized

The Sirsa Kinnow, a hybrid citrus fruit primarily cultivated in the Sirsa district of Haryana, has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition highlights the fruit's distinct characteristics and its strong link to the region's specific agro-climatic conditions. The Kinnow, a cross between 'King' and 'Willow Leaf' mandarin varieties, was originally developed in California in 1935. It was introduced to India in the 1950s and found ideal growing conditions in Punjab and Haryana, particularly in Sirsa. The GI tag will help protect the Sirsa Kinnow's name and prevent its misuse by producers from other regions. It also aims to boost the economic prospects of farmers in Sirsa by enhancing the fruit's market value and promoting its unique identity. The Sirsa Kinnow is known for its juicy pulp, sweet-sour taste, and easy-to-peel skin, making it a favourite among consumers.

Sirsa Kinnow Gets GI Tag: Haryana's Signature Citrus Fruit

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has warned Pakistan to reverse unauthorized construction and alterations at the ancient archaeological site of Taxila. UNESCO stated that if these changes are not undone, Taxila's World Heritage status could be revoked. The warning comes after reports of new construction and modifications within the protected zones of Taxila, which is a crucial historical site in Pakistan. UNESCO emphasized the importance of preserving the site's authenticity and integrity, which are key criteria for maintaining its World Heritage designation. The organization has urged Pakistani authorities to take immediate corrective measures to protect Taxila's invaluable cultural heritage.

UNESCO Warns Pakistan: Taxila World Heritage Status at Risk

India currently holds the sixth position globally for the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As of 2024, India has a total of 42 World Heritage Sites. This includes 34 cultural sites, 7 natural sites, and 1 mixed site. Italy leads the list with 59 sites, followed by China with 57 sites. Germany ranks third with 52 sites, while France and Spain are tied for fourth with 51 sites each. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites program aims to identify, protect, and preserve cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. These sites are crucial for understanding global history and biodiversity.

India's Rank in UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Global List

Eight products from Himachal Pradesh have been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. These include Spiti seabuckthorn, Kinnauri apple, and Kinnauri shawl. Other products are Kinnauri cap, Kinnauri craft, Kinnauri jewellery, Kinnauri footwear, and Kinnauri dry fruits. The GI tag helps protect the uniqueness and traditional knowledge associated with these products. It also prevents unauthorized use of the product name by others. This recognition boosts the local economy and promotes the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. The GI tag is a sign that identifies goods as originating from a specific geographical area, possessing qualities or a reputation due to that origin. This move will benefit local artisans and farmers in Himachal Pradesh.

8 Himachal Products Get GI Tag: Spiti Seabuckthorn, Kinnauri Apple Included

The National Maritime Heritage Complex is currently under construction in Lothal, Gujarat. This ambitious project is designed by architect Hafeez Contractor. It spans nearly 400 acres and aims to be a world-class facility dedicated to India's maritime heritage. The complex will feature architecture inspired by the ancient Harappan civilization, reflecting Lothal's historical significance as a major Harappan port city. It will include immersive galleries, a maritime museum, and various attractions to educate visitors about India's long seafaring traditions. The design also incorporates sustainable practices. The National Maritime Heritage Complex is envisioned as a major tourist destination and a center for research into India's maritime past.

National Maritime Heritage Complex: Gujarat's Lothal Project

West Bengal has achieved the third position in India for possessing the highest number of Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The state boasts a diverse range of products, from agricultural goods like Darjeeling Tea to handicrafts such as Baluchari Saree, that have received this prestigious recognition. This achievement underscores the unique identity and traditional craftsmanship associated with various products originating from West Bengal. The GI tag helps protect the intellectual property rights of these products and prevents their misuse by unauthorized producers. This recognition also boosts the economic prospects of local artisans and farmers by enhancing the market value and demand for their authentic goods. West Bengal's strong performance in securing GI tags reflects its rich cultural legacy and the distinctiveness of its regional products.

West Bengal Ranks 3rd in India for GI Tags: Darjeeling Tea Included

West Bengal recently received Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 23 more products, bringing its total to 31 GI-tagged items. This makes West Bengal the state with the highest number of GI tags in India. Among the newly recognised products are famous items like 'Nolen Gur' (date palm jaggery) and 'Sitalpati' (a traditional mat). Other notable additions include various types of rice such as 'Kalonunia', 'Kataribhog', and 'Radhunipagal', along with different mango varieties like 'Himsagar' and 'Fazli'. Handicrafts like 'Baluchari Saree' and 'Dokra' art also received the tag. The GI tag helps protect the unique identity and quality of these products, preventing their misuse and promoting local artisans and farmers. Seven more items from West Bengal are currently awaiting GI tag approval.

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