Source: PIB
Context: At the 47th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, the Maratha Military Landscapes of India was inscribed as India’s 44th World Heritage Site, marking a historic recognition of India’s fortified legacy.
About India 44th World Heritage Site – Maratha Military Landscapes of India:
- What is it?
- A network of 12 strategic forts built between the 17th–19th centuries CE showcasing the military ingenuity of the Maratha Empire—known for their adaptability, architecture, and command over diverse terrains.
- Locations Covered:
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- Maharashtra (11 forts): Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg
- Tamil Nadu (1 fort): Gingee Fort
- Historical Context:
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- Developed during the rise of the Maratha Empire, these forts formed a defensive belt using natural landscapes for protection.
- Reflected Shivaji Maharaj’s military vision and emphasis on self-reliant fort defence systems.
- Unique Features:
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- Hill Forts: Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Salher, Gingee – integrated with rugged hill terrain.
- Island Forts: Sindhudurg, Khanderi, Suvarnadurg – surrounded by the Arabian Sea.
- Plateau and Forest Forts: Panhala (plateau), Pratapgad (hill-forest).
- Forts display adaptive design, built with local materials and regional architecture.
- Recognized under UNESCO Criteria (iv) & (vi) – for architectural, military, and cultural continuity.
About UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India:
- What is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
- A site inscribed for its Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) in terms of cultural, natural, or mixed heritage, governed by the 1972 World Heritage Convention.
- India’s Global Ranking:
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- India has 44 World Heritage Sites (as of July 2025).
- Ranks 6th globally, 2nd in Asia-Pacific, just behind China.
- 62 sites currently on India’s Tentative List.
- Governing Agencies:
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- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the nodal agency for heritage management and proposals.
- India is a member of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (2021–2025).
