UNESCO session in India ends, China to host ICH panel meet next year

A key UNESCO meet on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage (ICH) being held at Delhi's Red Fort ends on Saturday, with the panel adding 67 new living heritage elements from various countries during the nearly week-long session. The next session of the Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will be hosted in December 2026 in China's Xiamen city, a senior official of UNESCO said.

Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture in his address expressed India’s deep satisfaction at hosting the prestigious global meeting and reaffirmed the country’s sustained commitment to the protection, promotion, and celebration of living heritage. Aggarwal stated that the past days of deliberations and interactions allowed delegates not only to engage with the working mechanisms of the Convention but also to experience India’s cultural richness, inclusiveness, and diverse traditions. One of the highlights of this year’s Committee session was the inscription of Deepavali on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Secretary noted that Deepavali, celebrated widely across India and beyond, symbolises light, hope, and renewal, and its inscription further reinforces the global recognition of India’s vibrant living traditions. He congratulated all Member States whose elements were approved for inscription during this cycle.

The closing ceremony was hosted in the evening by India at the temporary pavillion, Plenary Hall, at the fort complex, as delegates will head out for sightseeing on Saturday after days of intense discussion.