Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a compelling address at the inaugural event of the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee, emphasizing India’s deep-rooted heritage and its remarkable scientific achievements throughout history.
In his keynote speech, PM Modi underscored India’s unique position as a custodian of diverse cultural treasures that narrate tales of ancient glory. He remarked, “India is so ancient that every point in the present tells a tale of some glorious past.” PM Modi illustrated this with the example of Delhi, noting that beyond being the modern capital, the city is a repository of millennia-old heritage. He specifically mentioned the iron pillar located about 15 kilometers from Delhi, which has stood for over 2,000 years without rusting, showcasing India’s advanced metallurgical knowledge even in ancient times.
“India’s heritage is not merely history; it is also science,” PM Modi asserted. He highlighted that India’s heritage represents a proud journey of pioneering engineering feats, demonstrating the country’s prowess in metallurgy and other scientific disciplines centuries ago.
The Prime Minister’s address resonated with the global audience gathered for the World Heritage Committee session, where representatives from various countries discuss the preservation and promotion of cultural and natural heritage sites worldwide. PM Modi’s emphasis on India’s heritage as a blend of history and science aimed to underline the country’s contributions to global civilization and the importance of safeguarding these legacies for future generations.
As the session progresses, delegates from different nations are expected to engage in discussions on the preservation challenges faced by heritage sites globally, including efforts to mitigate climate change impacts and ensure sustainable conservation practices.
PM Modi concluded his speech by reaffirming India’s commitment to protecting its rich cultural heritage and collaborating with the international community to promote mutual understanding and appreciation of global heritage diversity.
