Definition: UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places recognized by UNESCO for their cultural or physical significance, considered of outstanding value to humanity.
Objectives: UNESCO aims to encourage the conservation, identification, and maintenance of natural and cultural heritage worldwide, governed by the 1972 Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.
Criteria for Inscription: To be listed, a site must meet at least one of ten criteria, such as representing human creativity, showcasing cultural traditions, or exhibiting significant architectural ensembles.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
India boasts 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including:
- Kaziranga National Park (Assam): Known for one-horned rhinoceros.
- Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Rajasthan): A bird sanctuary.
- Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam): Rich in biodiversity.
- Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand).
Tentative List
India also has 50 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, awaiting formal inscription.
