India is hosting the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the Red Fort, New Delhi, from 8 to 13 December 2025. The session is chaired by Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, and brings together international delegates, cultural experts, and policymakers to review new nominations and strengthen global cooperation under the 2003 UNESCO Convention.
A key highlight of the session is India’s nomination of Diwali for inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. India currently has 15 elements already inscribed, including Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and Ramlila.
