The Manipur State Archaeology Department, under the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur, inaugurated the World Heritage Week 2024 Observation with a grand opening ceremony today at Kangla Hall, Kangla, Imphal. The event, held from December 23-24, aims to promote awareness about the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage.

M. Joy Singh, Commissioner of Art & Culture, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized the value of heritage as defined by UNESCO, calling it “the legacy passed down from past generations to the present and future generations.” He explained that heritage is categorized into two types: Cultural Heritage, which includes tangible aspects such as monuments, museums, and artifacts, and Natural Heritage, encompassing intangible elements like biodiversity, hills, and lakes. Highlighting its irreplaceable value, he urged collective efforts to protect and promote heritage for the benefit of future generations.

Joy Singh also noted the global recognition of heritage since UNESCO’s adoption of the World Heritage Convention in 1972, with 1,223 heritage sites identified worldwide, including 65 from Manipur.

K. Dinamani Singh, Director of Art & Culture and President of the event, called for expanding the scope of World Heritage Week activities to districts beyond Imphal. He stressed the importance of raising awareness to educate the public about heritage preservation.

The ceremony featured a temporary exhibition and the launch of a special publication titled Compendium of Gazettes & Orders of 65 Protected Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites of Manipur.

The event underscores Manipur’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and natural legacy.