India’s New Additions to UNESCO’s Tentative List

GS I-Culture

Context:

Recently, six cultural and natural heritage sites from India have been added to UNESCO’s Tentative List, bringing the total number of Indian sites on this list to 62.

Understanding UNESCO’s Tentative List:

What is it?
The Tentative List serves as a preliminary inventory of sites that a country intends to nominate for the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List in the future.

How are sites selected?

• Countries propose sites to the World Heritage Centre for evaluation.
• Each site must demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) to be considered.
• The Tentative List submission must precede the official nomination by at least one year.
• UNESCO recommends revising the list every 10 years for updates.

Newly Added Sites from India (2025):

1. Kanger Valley National Park (Chhattisgarh)

Significance: A biodiversity hotspot with rare limestone caves and dense forests.
Notable Species: Home to Bastar Hill Myna, an endemic and state bird of Chhattisgarh.

2. Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs (Telangana)

Historical Importance: An ancient burial site featuring prehistoric megalithic structures.
Age: Dates back to the Iron Age (1000 BCE – 300 CE), offering insights into early human settlements.

3. Ashokan Edict Sites (Multiple States)

Description: Includes pillars and rock edicts commissioned by Emperor Ashoka.
Spread Across: Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Karnataka.
Significance: Reflects the governance and Buddhist teachings of the Mauryan Empire.

4. Chausath Yogini Temples (Multiple States)

Unique Feature: Circular temples dedicated to 64 Yogini deities, associated with Tantric traditions.
Locations: Found in Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh.

5. Gupta Temples (Northern India)

Architectural Heritage: Represents classical Indian temple architecture from the Gupta period (4th–6th century CE).
Notable Features: Characterized by intricate carvings, shikharas (towers), and artistic excellence.

6. Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas (Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh)

Historical Significance: Medieval fort-palaces constructed by the Bundela Rajputs.
Notable Examples: Orchha Fort and Datia Palace, showcasing a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.