UNESCO Meet in India & 5 New GI Tags

Its diverse traditions, arts, heritage, and local identities have continued to fascinate the world. This cultural strength is reflected in two recent achievements — the historic UNESCO meetings hosted in India for the first time, and the five new GI tags awarded to Tamil Nadu. These accomplishments highlight India’s global stature, its capability in heritage preservation, and its rising role as a cultural leader.

While the UNESCO meetings showcased India’s international diplomacy and cultural importance, the GI tags placed local artisans, farmers, and craftspeople on the world map. Together, these events prove that India is not only a guardian of its ancient heritage but also an emerging cultural power in modern global contexts.

In terms of culture, history, and diversity, India has been a treasure of world heritage for centuries. Combining this legacy with the vision of modern India, the year 2024–2025 marked a historic moment as India hosted two major UNESCO sessions. These included the meeting of the World Heritage Committee and the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

UNESCO meetings held in India for the first time

Hosting a UNESCO meeting in India for the first time is considered a historic achievement. It not only establishes India’s cultural richness on the global platform but also reflects that the world recognizes India’s leadership, capability, and dedication toward heritage conservation.

The meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) was especially significant for India, as the nation has long been respected internationally for its arts, traditions, and heritage sites. The event symbolizes that the global community values India’s hosting capacity, cultural influence, diplomatic contribution, and conservation efforts more than ever before.

It strengthens India’s image as an emerging cultural leader and global policy contributor, paving the way for even deeper and more meaningful collaborations with UNESCO in the coming years.

Which meetings were held — and why they were historic

46th Session of the World Heritage Committee — 21–31 July 2024

First-ever session of its kind hosted in India
Held from 21 to 31 July
Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage — 8–13 December 2025

First time India hosted the ICH committee meeting
Held from 8 to 13 December 2025
Venue: Red Fort, Delhi — itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Why this initiative is historic?

India had never hosted the World Heritage Committee meeting before — 2024–25 marked the first time.
India welcomed the ICH committee session on the intergovernmental platform for the very first time.
This shows that India is not limited to the preservation of historical buildings alone, but is also actively working to safeguard its living cultural traditions — folk arts, performances, rituals, crafts, music, dance, and more.
Delegates, experts, researchers, and heritage-management officials from across the world participated, giving India’s cultural and administrative efforts international recognition.

Objectives of the 2024 and 2025 meetings

46th World Heritage Session

Reviewed the condition of 124 listed heritage sites
Considered proposals to add 27 new sites to the UNESCO World Heritage List

ICH Session

Focused on safeguarding “living cultural traditions” such as folk songs, arts, crafts, festivals, and traditional knowledge
Discussed policy development, international cooperation, and knowledge exchange
India showcased its commitment not only to archaeological heritage but also to its diverse and vibrant intangible culture

Major outcomes and benefits for India

Global cultural recognition

India demonstrated that its cultural heritage is not just history but a living, vibrant reality.

Boost to tourism, conservation, and economy

New heritage recognitions will bring tourism, local employment, and investment in preservation.

Awareness and participation among youth

The young generation gains pride and understanding of India’s cultural roots.

Stronger international cooperation

India can now work more closely with other nations in heritage management and policy-making.

India’s New GI Tags: Tamil Nadu Receives Five Unique Cultural Identifiers

A Celebration of Cultural, Economic, and Traditional Heritage

India is a land of diversity—every region and district has its own fragrance, art, and distinct identity. When a product is deeply associated with a region’s soil, climate, craftsmanship, or culture, it receives a GI Tag (Geographical Indication Tag).

The purpose of this tag is to recognize the authentic identity of the product, affirming that:

“This belongs to this place, and its quality and uniqueness come from this region.”

Recently, five culturally significant products from Tamil Nadu were awarded new GI tags. These tags not only preserve their identity but also strengthen the economic prospects of local artisans and farmers.

What is a GI Tag?

A GI Tag is a legal certificate that validates a product’s:

Origin
Quality
Traditional method
Geographical uniqueness

GI Tag ensures:

Higher market value
Greater authenticity
Better export opportunities
Protection for artisans and farmers

Five New GI Tags of Tamil Nadu — A Blend of Culture and Craftsmanship

1. Woraiyur Cotton Saree

Region: Woraiyur, Tiruchirappalli

Known for:

Lightweight texture
Beautiful traditional borders
Fine weaving techniques

The tag ensures authenticity and opens new markets for weavers.

2. Ambasamudram Choppu Samaan

Region: Tirunelveli District

These are handcrafted wooden toys and home décor items known for:

Natural wood
Hand-carved detailing
Eco-friendly paints

The GI Tag gives long-awaited recognition to this traditional craft.

3. Panruti Cashew

Region: Panruti, Cuddalore

Famous for:

Large kernels
Creamy flavor
Soft texture

The GI tag helps farmers by increasing value and preventing counterfeit products.

4. Mathur Thotti

A traditional metal vessel used especially in rituals and ceremonies, crafted by specialized metal artisans of the Mathur region. The GI tag enhances its global recognition.

5. Arumbavur Wooden Carvings / Traditional Craft Item

Known for:

Intricate designs
Religious motifs
Skilled craftsmanship

The tag helps preserve this heritage craft and supports artisans.

Significance of These Five GI Tags

Boost to regional economy

Weavers, craftsmen, and farmers benefit directly.

Preservation of cultural heritage

Each product tells a cultural story.

Global recognition

International markets learn about the origin and significance of these crafts.

Protection from duplicates

GI ensures authenticity.

Final Conclusion

India’s achievements in 2024–25 — hosting UNESCO’s historic meetings and obtaining five new GI tags — are not just cultural events but symbols of a rising India. While UNESCO meetings showcased India’s global leadership in cultural policy, the GI tags highlighted the value of India’s grassroots artistry.

Together, they represent a journey where the heritage of the past and the possibilities of the future stand side by side. In the coming years, this cultural confidence — whether in heritage preservation or local product recognition — will make India even stronger and more influential on the global stage.