India will host its first UNESCO meeting on safeguarding intangible cultural assets at Delhi’s Red Fort from December 8-13, prompting the monument’s closure from December 5-14. The Archaeological Survey of India declared that the global event will take place at Emperor Shah Jahan’s 17th-century Mughal landmark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The session, chaired by Vishal V Sharma, India’s Ambassador to UNESCO, will be the 20th of its type since the 2003 UN Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage was adopted. It will assess international nominations, debate preservation strategies, and encourage member governments to work together. 

India has suggested that Deepawali and Chhath Mahaparva be included on UNESCO’s heritage lists, highlighting festivals that exhibit live traditions and community values. Cultural showcases and discussions will run concurrently with the main events, highlighting the essence of living heritage—songs, rituals, crafts, and traditions passed down through generations.

The Ministry of Culture, through the Sangeet Natak Akademi, is coordinating logistics, calling the event a recognition of India’s growing importance in global cultural diplomacy. The group includes representatives from 24 countries.

Following a recent car blast near the monument, security measures will be tightened. The conference follows last year’s World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi.