UNESCO(the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)

 

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UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, plays a vital role in promoting peace, security, and global cooperation. Let’s explore its mission, programs, and impact:

1. Mission and Mandate:

   • UNESCO aims to foster peace and human rights through education, science, culture, communication, and information.
   • It promotes international cooperation to address global challenges and improve the human condition.

2. Key Areas of Focus:

   • Education: UNESCO works to ensure quality, equitable, and inclusive education for all.
   • Science and Technology: It encourages scientific research, innovation, and ethical standards.
   • Culture: UNESCO protects cultural heritage, promotes creativity, and celebrates diversity.
   • Communication and Information: It supports freedom of expression, media development, and access to information.

3. Shared Heritage and Impact:

   • UNESCO designates and protects World Heritage Sites, intangible heritage elements, biosphere reserves, and global geoparks.
   • Its actions connect the world, celebrate shared humanity, and strengthen intellectual and moral solidarity.

4. Global Initiatives and Resilience:

• UNESCO collaborates with sister UN agencies and the Group of 20 (G20) to address current global challenges.
• It stands on the frontline of international cooperation, supporting all member states.

India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites have expanded to a total of 42 with the recent additions of the ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala’ and Santiniketan. These recognitions include 34 sites in the cultural category, seven in the natural category, and one mixed property, showcasing India’s rich and diverse heritage 1. 

Here are some details about these recent additions:

1. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala:

   • This nomination is a serial property comprising three temples in Karnataka:
     • Channakeshava temple in Belur
     • Hoysaleshvara temple in Halebidu
     • Keshava temple in Somanathapura
   • These 13th-century temples reflect the creative brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty’s architects.
   • The temples blend various architectural styles prevalent in northern, central, and southern India, such as the Nagara, Bhumija, and Dravida styles.
   • Their exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and rich symbolism make them true works of art.

2. Santiniketan:

   • Located in West Bengal, Santiniketan is the famed place where poet Rabindranath Tagore built Visva-Bharati over a century ago.
   • Visva-Bharati is an institution of learning and culture that Tagore envisioned as a place of harmonious coexistence between nature, art, and education.
   • The UNESCO tag recognizes its historical and cultural significance.

With these recent additions, India continues to celebrate its rich heritage and contributions to world culture.