India Strengthens Its Global Heritage Footprint
India Adds Six New Sites to UNESCO Tentative List in 2024: In a major step towards expanding its presence on the global heritage map, India added six new sites to the UNESCO Tentative List on March 7, 2024. This update, shared by the Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO, raises the total number of Indian entries on the tentative list to 62. The move signals the country’s long-term ambition to secure World Heritage Site status for more of its culturally and ecologically important locations. Inclusion in this list is a mandatory requirement before any site can be nominated for final UNESCO recognition.
The Newly Listed Natural and Cultural Gems
The newly recognized entries span a rich variety of heritage types. Among them is the Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh, famous for its spectacular stalactite and stalagmite caves, dense forests, and rare Bastar Hill Myna. From Telangana, the Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs offer archaeological insight into Iron Age burial and astronomical practices. The Ashokan Edict Sites, scattered across several states, preserve Emperor Ashoka’s historic stone inscriptions promoting Dhamma (moral governance). Equally notable are the Chausath Yogini Temples, known for their circular layouts and deep links to Tantric traditions. The Gupta-era temples represent early advancements in Hindu temple architecture, while the Bundela Fortresses in Orchha and Datia stand as monuments to Rajput-Mughal fusion design.
Strategic Importance of the Tentative List
Getting listed on the UNESCO Tentative List is not just a formality—it represents the first official milestone toward achieving World Heritage recognition. It allows India to present these sites for further global evaluation, and brings benefits like increased international support, funding, and tourism potential. Sites must meet strict UNESCO criteria, supported by robust documentation and conservation frameworks. This process ensures that only well-preserved and culturally significant locations move forward for final consideration.
India’s Progress in World Heritage Recognition
As of 2024, India has a total of 43 World Heritage Sites, comprising 35 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed site. A proud moment came when India hosted the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session for the first time in 2024. During this session, Assam’s Moidams, the royal burial sites of the Ahom dynasty, were granted official World Heritage status, highlighting India’s growing leadership in international heritage conservation efforts.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
India Adds Six New Sites to UNESCO Tentative List in 2024:
| Category | Details |
| Date of New Inclusions | March 7, 2024 |
| Total Tentative Sites (India) | 62 |
| New Additions | Kanger Valley NP, Mudumal Menhirs, Ashokan Edicts, Chausath Yogini Temples, Gupta Temples, Bundela Fortresses |
| India Hosts WH Committee | 2024 (First time) |
| Recent WH Site Added | Moidams of Assam (Ahom Dynasty Royal Tombs) |
| Purpose of Tentative List | Mandatory phase before World Heritage Site nomination |
