April 18 marks World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites. The day being celebrated on Tuesday is dedicated to the conservation and promotion of cultural heritage through various activities undertaken by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).
In 1982, ICOMOS suggested to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that April 18 should be celebrated as the International Day for Monuments and Sites. UNESCO approved the proposal during the 22nd General Conference in 1983. This year the theme is ‘Heritage Changes’ and according to ICOMOS, the idea provides a timely opportunity to showcase strategies demonstrating the full potential of heritage research and practices which deliver climate-resilient pathways, while advocating for inclusive transitions to low-carbon futures.
According to UNESCO, the history of a place can involve many points of view. The conservation of cultural heritage requires careful examination of the past, and its practice demands provision for the future. In recent years, debates on certain narratives, and particular stories over others, have come to the forefront. Addressing difficult and often contested histories involves complex conversations with different stakeholders, avoiding biased views and interpretations of the past.
The World Heritage Convention (1972) states: “deterioration or disappearance of any item of the cultural or natural heritage constitutes a harmful impoverishment of the heritage of all the nations of the world”. However, imbalances in recognition, interpretation and ultimately, conservation of various cultural manifestations continue to exist, UNESCO underlines. The Day invites need to reflect on, interpret and review existing narratives.
In Jammu and Kashmir’s context, authorities have time and again called for revival, restoration and conservation of the architectural heritage of J&K.
As has been rightly pointed out by the officers and officials concerned, the restoration of the heritage and architectural sites of J&K should be a priority of the government. For this, coordinated efforts need to be taken for restoring the sites to their original positions. There is a need to devise and finalize short, medium, and long term plans for revival, restoration, preservation, and maintenance of architectural and heritage sites of J&K. The short term plans should be immediately executed which include components like landscape, approach road, lighting, information boards, public amenities and other things that fall under long term plan will automatically follow.
The heritage sites should be made a happening place for the people in consultation with the stakeholders as per the approved action plan. Once people will start visiting the places it will create ripple effects. The World Heritage Day is an apt opportunity for individuals, organizations, and administration to come together and work towards protecting and promoting cultural heritage sites.
