Relevance: GS-1 (Culture) | Source: The Hindu, UNESCO ICH Secretariat

Deepavali has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising its role in strengthening social bonds, traditional craftsmanship, and values such as generosity and community well-being.

About Deepavali & Its Significance

Deepavali, India’s festival of lights, symbolises the victory of good over evil and sustains livelihoods of potters, artisans, farmers, and temple communities. 

• UNESCO notes its contribution to social cohesion and Sustainable Development Goals, especially cultural sustainability and community participation.

What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?

• ICH refers to living traditions—rituals, festive events, oral traditions, performing arts, and craftsmanship.
•  India already has elements such as Yoga, Kumbh Mela, Ramlila, Chhau Dance, etc., on the list.

UNESCO

• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (1945) promotes peace through education, culture, science, and communication.
• ICH protection is governed by the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which India ratified in 2005.

Significance:The listing enhances India’s cultural diplomacy and global recognition of its living traditions.

Q. Under UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage framework, which of the following are mandatory obligations for a country?

1. Maintaining a national inventory of intangible cultural heritage
2. Ensuring legal protection for each listed element
3. Nominating at least one element every year for UNESCO listing

Select the correct answer:
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3