Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a resolute address at the inaugural event of the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee, highlighting India’s commitment to balancing development with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Speaking from New Delhi, PM Modi articulated India’s vision encapsulated in the motto, ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ (Development and Heritage Together), emphasizing the nation’s achievements and responsibilities in both domains.
“India’s vision is unwavering – ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi.’ Over the past decade, India has made significant strides in modern development while remaining steadfast in honoring and preserving its cultural heritage,” PM Modi affirmed. He stressed the importance of heritage sites as repositories of shared human history and identity, transcending geopolitical boundaries.
PM Modi underscored India’s proactive measures in heritage conservation, stating, “We have undertaken unprecedented initiatives to safeguard our heritage.” He highlighted the government’s efforts to protect and promote cultural landmarks that are vital to India’s diverse cultural fabric and global heritage.
Addressing an international audience at the World Heritage Committee Meeting, PM Modi extended India’s invitation for global collaboration in heritage conservation efforts. “India calls upon the world to join hands in preserving our shared heritage for future generations,” he declared, advocating for collective action to safeguard cultural and natural treasures of universal significance.
The World Heritage Committee Meeting serves as a crucial platform for discussing and safeguarding cultural and natural heritage sites worldwide. PM Modi’s address underscored India’s leadership in cultural preservation and its commitment to promoting global cooperation for sustainable heritage management.