Press release

UNESCO and MAPIN launch unique co-publication on World Heritage Sites of India

New Delhi, 26 August 2021:  UNESCO and MAPIN Publishing will launch on 27 August 2021 a volume packed with rich texts and photographs, never assembled before and focusing on all UNESCO World Heritage sites of India. The publication, entitled ‘Incredible Treasures’ will make its virtual debut between 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm. For registration .

It will be launched in the presence of Mr Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog; Mr Raghvendra Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Dr V B Mathur, Chairperson, National Biodiversity Authority; and Mr Eric Falt, UNESCO New Delhi Director and Representative. The event will be moderated by Dr Shikha Jain, World Heritage Expert and Director, DRONAH, the main Editor of the publication (She worked together with the late Vinay Sheel Oberoi, former Ambassador of India to UNESCO.)

India is truly incredible and the World Heritage Sites presented here span the entire history and geography of the country. We believe that this book will be a definitive reference and will help build greater awareness about India’s World Heritage sites among specialists and other readers alike. We also hope it will encourage them to support efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
Eric Falt, Director of UNESCO New Delhi

Though the sites across India have been inscribed individually, they collectively contribute to a cohesive historical narrative of India’s extremely diverse archaeological and architectural spectrum, as well as natural sites. The publication offers a stunning view of all World Heritage sites of India – two more sites were recently added in July - described together for the first time with informative, accessible commentary and spectacular photographs.   

NITI Aayog has initiated a nationwide effort to understand the current challenges for heritage management in India and to provide a future roadmap along with an appropriate branding of India’s invaluable Archaeological and Built Heritage. We are also ensuring guidance to the concerned heritage custodians of these World Heritage Sites including the nodal agency Archaeological Survey of India to further enhance, conserve and promote these locations for local communities as well as visitors.
Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog, in his Foreword for the book

‘Incredible Treasures’ has benefited immensely from the research and contributions of many experts in the fields of architecture, cultural conservation, sustainable heritage development, wildlife and ecology.  It is available for sale in English at selected book stores near you, or on Amazon in India and most of Europe and the United States. Other language editions are expected soon.

In the 167 countries where they are currently listed, UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites are landmarks of outstanding historical, cultural and natural significance.  UNESCO seeks to encourage the identification, protection, and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the

For more information, contact:

Rekha Beri, Public Information Officer, UNESCO New Delhi (r.beri@unesco.org)

Mithila Rangrajan,  MAPIN Publishing, Ahmedabad (editorial@mapinpub.com)

 
About UNESCO 

UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It seeks to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and Culture. It's programmes contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015. In this spirit, it develops educational tools to help people live as global citizens free of hate and intolerance. UNESCO works so that each child and citizen has access to quality education. By promoting cultural heritage and the equal dignity of all cultures, it strengthens bonds among nations. UNESCO fosters scientific programmes and policies as platforms for development and cooperation. UNESCO stands up for freedom of expression, as a fundamental right and a key condition for democracy and development. Serving as a laboratory of ideas, UNESCO helps countries adopt international standards and manages programmes that foster the free flow of ideas and knowledge sharing.

About MAPIN

Mapin Publishing has been internationally reputed for producing high-quality illustrated books for over 35 years. Mapin's publishing programme covers a broad spectrum from fine art, modern and contemporary art, architecture, archaeology, crafts, design, exhibition catalogues, museum collections, performing arts to photography and more. Mapin also publishes children’s books that bring Indian narratives and art-forms closer to young readers.

 With its long-standing experience, Mapin has a unique understanding of design, content and production. We are well known for our aesthetically produced books and for our commitment to quality publishing.