World Heritage Day is celebrated worldwide every year on April 18th. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of cultural and natural heritage, highlighting how diverse, fragile, and valuable these treasures are. This global observance was established by UNESCO following a proposal by ICOMOS, an organization focused on preserving historical sites.
This year’s theme is “Emergency Response for Living Heritage in Conflict and Disaster Settings.” It focuses on finding ways to protect cultural heritage from crises and build resilience against threats. Activities marking the day include visits to landmarks, educational programs, conferences, and photo exhibitions.
In India, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla joined the celebrations by sharing greetings with citizens. He emphasized how the country is home to a wealth of historical treasures, architectural masterpieces, and cultural diversity, showcasing its rich legacy.