20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee Session Begins in New Delhi

Current Context: The 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage was held at the Red Fort, New Delhi.

• Date of Session: 8–13 December 2025.
• Chair: Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
• The meeting coincided with India’s cultural leadership and reviewed global nominations under the 2003 UNESCO Convention.
• India’s Nomination: Diwali – Festival of Lights proposed for inscription on the Representative List.
• Global Highlight: Türkiye’s Antep İşi Embroidery was inscribed during the session.=
• Significance: Strengthened India’s role in safeguarding living heritage; India already has 15 elements inscribed on UNESCO’s ICH list.

Question:

Q1.Which Indian festival was proposed for inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the 20th Session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi?

a) Holi
b) Diwali

c) Durga Puja
d) Pongal

Answer: b) India’s nomination of Diwali – Festival of Lights was reviewed during the 20th UNESCO ICH session, highlighting its cultural significance.