UNESCO’s 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage commenced with different sessions today at Red Fort, New Delhi. Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary Ministry of Culture chaired a press conference after the morning session.  Shri Vishal V Sharma 20 COM Chairperson and Ambassador Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO and Mr Ernesto ottone Assistant Direcor General for Culture of UNESCO attended the Press conference.

Addressing the Press conference, Shri Vivek Aggarwal said that hosting the session at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Red Fort reflects India’s unique blend of tangible and intangible cultural heritage. He emphasized India’s community centered approach to safeguarding traditions, highlighting the ongoing expansion of the National Inventory, capacity-building initiatives for practitioners, and efforts to integrate living heritage into national development programmes.

The Secretary also underscored India’s 15 elements on UNESCO’s Representative List, including Vedic Chanting, Kutiyattam, Yoga, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja and Garba, describing them as a “kaleidoscope of India’s cultural identity.” He also highlighted that Intangible Cultural Heritage represents the “living heartbeat of humanity,” embodied in performing arts, craftsmanship, festivals, rituals and oral traditions sustained by communities across generations.

 The Secretary emphasized that the session comes at a crucial time, with intangible heritage across the world facing challenges from commercial pressures, shifting community dynamics and evolving digital ecosystems. UNESCO’s platform, remains essential for cooperation, dialogue and collective stewardship he added.

Speaking at the same press conference Shri Vishal V. Sharma, welcomed all participants and reaffirmed India’s long-standing commitment to safeguarding cultural heritages. He noted that India’s ongoing term (2022–2026) on the Committee further strengthens its engagement in global discussions on safeguarding living heritage.

Mr Ernesto Ottone, shared his happiness and gratitude to Government of India for Hosting this 20^th session committee in New Delhi and he applauded the efforts of Indian government in safeguarding cultural heritages.

The week-long session will run from 8^th to 13^th December 2025, bringing together nearly a thousand delegates from Member States, cultural institutions, experts, NGOs and observers.

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M Annadurai

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