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Context:
19th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee under Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage held in Paraguay.
UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH):
- International agreement adopted in 2003
- Intangible cultural heritage refers to practices, representations, expressions, knowledge and know-how, transmitted from over generations within communities.
- Contains 2 lists –
- Representative List: Showcasing the global diversity of ICH, this list raises awareness of its significance and importance.
- Urgent Safeguarding List: Identifying threatened ICH, this list calls for immediate measures to ensure its survival.
- Identifies 5 broad domains –
- Oral traditions
- Performing arts
- Social practices, rituals and festive events
- Knowledge and practices concerning nature
- Traditional craftsmanship
India and the Convention:
- India has 15 ICH elements on the UNESCO Representative List of ICH of Humanity.
- Latest addition – Traditional dance form Garba from Gujarat
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Source: UNESCO
Previous Year Question
Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO ?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2024 Prelims]
(a) Chhau dance
(b) Durga Puja
(c) Garba dance
(d) Kumbh Mela
Answer: (c)