Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:

1. Shantiniketan

2. Rani-ki-Vav

3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 

4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya 

How many of the above properties were included in 2023?

The correct answer is Option B.

Key PointsUNESCO Year in which World Heritage included in UNESCO.

1. Shantiniketan – 2023.
2. Rani-ki-Vav – 2018.
3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas – 2023.
4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya 2002. Hence Correct answer is Only Two. 

Additional Information

• UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

• UNESCO is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace, security, and sustainable development through international collaboration in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication.

• Founding and Purpose:

  • Founded on November 16, 1945, UNESCO’s mission is to promote education, preserve cultural heritage, foster scientific collaboration, and protect freedom of expression. It seeks to build peace by fostering dialogue among civilizations and enhancing cultural diversity.

  • Headquarters:Paris, France.

• Main Objectives:

  • Education: Promoting inclusive, quality education for all, with initiatives like "Education for All" (EFA) and the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education.
  • Culture: Protecting cultural heritage (both tangible and intangible) through conventions like the World Heritage Convention and lists such as the World Heritage Sites.
  • Science: Promoting scientific cooperation and sustainable development, including efforts related to the sciences, natural resources, and promoting gender equality in science.
  • Communication and Information: Advocating for freedom of expression, the development of a free and pluralistic media, and universal access to information.

• Key Programs:

  • World Heritage Sites: UNESCO designates places of cultural or natural significance as World Heritage Sites, fostering international cooperation in their protection.
  • Intangible Cultural Heritage: Protects cultural traditions, practices, and skills, such as dances, languages, and festivals.
  • Man and the Biosphere (MAB): Promotes sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science.
  • Global Geoparks: Promotes the sustainable use and conservation of geological heritage.
  • UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet): An initiative linking educational institutions across the world to promote peace and sustainable development.

• International Days:

  • UNESCO celebrates various international days to raise awareness on issues related to its mandate. Examples include World Press Freedom Day (May 3) and International Literacy Day (September 8).

• UNESCO's Structure:

  • General Conference: Composed of member states, it meets every two years to set policies and programs.
  • Executive Board: It is responsible for the overall management of UNESCO, and meets twice a year to ensure the implementation of the General Conference's decisions.
  • Director-General: The head of the UNESCO Secretariat, responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the organization.