Archaeological Survey of India Nominates Sarnath for UNESCO World Heritage List 2025-26 Cycle.
National
In August 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the Ministry of Culture (MoC), Government of India (GoI), officially nominated the ancient Buddhist site “Sarnath” for inscription on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List for the 2025-26 cycle. This nomination marks a significant step in recognizing India’s rich Buddhist heritage on a global platform.
- The nomination process follows the World Heritage Convention of 1972, which allows each State Party to nominate only one site per year for inclusion on the World Heritage List.
- The entire process, from submission to inscription, typically takes around 1.5 years. This ensures that the nominated site meets UNESCO’s stringent criteria for outstanding universal value.
- Sarnath holds immense historical and religious importance as it is located at the confluence of the Rivers Ganga and Varuna in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is famed as the site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, marking the formal beginning of the Buddhist community.
Main Point :- (i) The site is one of the four most sacred places for Buddhists worldwide, alongside Lumbini in Nepal (Buddha’s birthplace), Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment), and Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh (where he passed away). Sarnath’s spiritual significance is complemented by its archaeological richness, featuring ancient stupas, monasteries, and ruins dating back to several centuries.
(ii) By nominating Sarnath for UNESCO’s World Heritage List, India aims to preserve and promote this vital cultural landmark. Recognition by UNESCO will boost global awareness, enhance conservation efforts, and promote sustainable tourism, helping to maintain Sarnath’s legacy for future generations.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Director-General : Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters : Paris, France
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