Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates 46th World Heritage Committee Session, Highlights India’s Heritage and Development Vision.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee on Sunday at Bharat Mandapam. Emphasizing India’s vision of "Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi" (Development as well as Heritage), Modi highlighted the significance of hosting the event on Guru Purnima, marking India's first hosting the World Heritage Committee.

Modi expressed his pleasure at the promising start of the meeting and welcomed international dignitaries, including UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay. He noted that India has recently repatriated over 350 heritage artifacts, reflecting global respect for historical preservation.

He praised the World Heritage Committee for its role and lauded the nomination of Northeast India's Maidam as India’s 43rd World Heritage Site. Modi showcased various historical achievements, from the rust-resistant Iron Pillar to the engineering marvels of the Kedarnath and Brihadeeswara Temples.

Modi also discussed ancient discoveries, such as the Sinauli copper age artifacts and a 4,000-year-old chariot, underscoring India’s rich historical narrative. He stressed that heritage connects humanity and promotes global welfare and tourism.

The Prime Minister concluded by urging foreign guests to explore India's heritage sites and participate in the World Heritage Committee Meeting, which will run from July 21 to 31 in Delhi. The session will include discussions on new nominations, conservation reports, and international assistance, with over 2,000 delegates from 150 countries in attendance.