Observed annually on April 18th, World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, is a global celebration dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving the world’s cultural and natural heritage. In 2025, the day carries a significant theme: “Heritage under Threat from Disasters and Conflicts: Preparedness and Learning from 60 years of ICOMOS Actions.” This theme underscores the increasing vulnerability of heritage sites to both natural and human-induced disasters and emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard these invaluable treasures for future generations.
The theme for 2025 reflects on the six decades of work by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in addressing threats to heritage. It serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, governments, and international organizations to collaborate in enhancing preparedness, mitigating risks, and learning from past experiences to protect heritage sites affected by conflicts and disasters. This includes developing strategies for risk assessment, emergency response, and post-disaster recovery.
India, with its rich tapestry of cultural and natural heritage, plays a vital role in this global observance. Home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, and the Western Ghats, the country actively participates in promoting heritage awareness and conservation efforts. On World Heritage Day 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced free entry to all ASI-protected monuments across the country, encouraging citizens to connect with their historical legacy.
The celebration of World Heritage Day extends beyond mere commemoration. It is an opportunity to educate the public about the diverse heritage present around the world and the importance of its preservation. Various activities, such as heritage walks, workshops, and awareness campaigns, are organized globally to engage people and foster a sense of responsibility towards protecting these sites. By understanding the threats and learning from past experiences, we can collectively work towards ensuring the resilience of our heritage in the face of future challenges, safeguarding these invaluable assets for generations to come.
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