World Heritage Week observed
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, December 23 2024: The Manipur State Archaeology under the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur, inaugurated the World Heritage Week 2024 observation with a grand opening ceremony at Kangla Hall, Kangla, Imphal on Monday.

The event was graced by M Joy Singh, Commissioner, Art & Culture and K Dinamani Singh, Director, Art & Culture as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, M Joy.

emphasized the importance of heritage awareness among the people and highlighted the crucial role played by UNESCO in preserving and promoting ths world's heritage.

Quoting UNESCO's definition of heritage as "the legacy passed down from past generations to the present and future generations", he described it as a valuable property that must be protected and exhibited to preserve the cultural & natural roots of humanity.

Stating that heritage is categorised into two - Cultural and Natural Heritage, M Joy said, "Cultural Heritage includes tangible culture such as museums, monuments, artifacts, culture, sports, music, dance and skills.

Natural Heritage includes intangible cultures such as hill range, lakes and the entire biodiversity.

Heritage is the irreplaceable source of life and inspiration" .

He also underscored the irreplaceable value of heritage as a source of life and inspiration, noting that since the adoption of the World Heritage Convention by UNESCO in 1972, a total of 1,223 heritage sites have been recognized worldwide, including 65 from Manipur.

K Dinamani Singh called for the expansion of World Heritage Week activities beyond Imphal to all districts of Manipur.

He stressed the need for widespread awareness, highlighting that the event's primary objective is to educate the public about the significance of heritage.

The event also featured a temporary exhibition and release of a special publication titled "Compendium of Gazettes & Orders of 65 Protected Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites of Manipur" .

Comment