World Heritage Day-2024 observed in state
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, April 18 2024:
Manipur State Archaeology, which is under the Department of Art and Culture, in collaboration with Manipur University Central Museum (MU), commemorated the World Heritage Day-2024 under the theme "Discover and experience diversity" during a function held at the Central Museum on Thursday.
Presiding over the function, Art and Culture commissioner M Joy Singh emphasised the significance Of World Heritage Day as a global observance aimed at raising awareness about the remarkable cultural and natural sites listed under UNESCO's World Heritage List.
"This day is also known as the 'International Day for Monuments and Sites', highlighting the crucial need to preserve heritage for the benefit of humankind.
World heritage is a shared heritage, and it is essential for all of us to explore and acknowledge the vast spectrum of mankind's commonalities," he stated.
The commissioner pointed out that there are 1199 World Heritage sites worldwide as of January 2024, offering a rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and landscapes.
In India, there are 42 such sites, with the most recent addition in 2023 being the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas and Santiniketan in Karnataka.
Additionally, there are 57 other monument sites, including the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
Joy then stressed that World Heritage Day serves as a poignant reminder of our culturally rich past and the responsibility we bear in preserving our natural heritage not only for ourselves but also for future generations.
As the world observes the day, he urged for heightened awareness about the importance of these sites.
He concluded by mentioning that Manipur state boasts 65 state-protected monument sites, encompassing temples, inscriptions, and more.
He also revealed that Manipur State Archaeology is planning to include other significant sites like Kangla through upcoming initiatives.
Speaking as the chief guest, Manipur University VC Prof N Lokendra Singh expressed gratitude to the State Archaeology for sponsoring the programme along with highlighting the university's efforts to showcase the museum's important collections and make them accessible to all visitors.
Prof Lokendra pointed out the unique location of Canchipur, which houses significant sites in Manipur.
Referring to the Govindaji temple located atop a hill in Canchipur, he mentioned that the chairman of Indian Monument Committee had recommended its inclusion in the list of selected monuments for preservation.
Additionally, he drew attention to Captain Gordon's burial site near Canchipur High School, and urged the State Archaeology to take steps to develop the said site.
He further expressed appreciation to the authority concerned for supporting the enhancement of infrastructure at the university campus, specifically in the higher education sector.
Manipur University Central Museum curator (In-charge) Dr Meesala Ramakrishna, who attended as guest of honour, spoke about the significance of art and culture in line with the World Heritage Day event.
He opined that Manipur has a rich culture and heritage and emphasised on the preservation of historical sites and monuments of ancient past.
He then appealed for the protection, conservation and restoration of the rich biodiversity and the unique art and cultural heritage of the state for the future generation.
The event ended with a photo exhibition, exhibiting items such as stone tools, pottery assemblage, terracotta objects, metal implements and ornaments, bio materials, structural remains, etc., and a signature campaign held with the statement, "I pledge to safeguard my heritage".
Amongst the attendees included State Archaeology superintendent Sashikanta Sharma K and MU research associate Dr Ng Jayshree Devi.
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