PM Modi welcomes UNESCO world heritage status for Sarnath

Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi New Delhi, Jul 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday welcomed UNESCO's decision to inscribe the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh on the World Heritage List, describing it as a proud moment for the nation and a recognition of India's rich civilisational and spiritual heritage. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the recognition honours Sarnath's deep association with Lord Buddha and his enduring message of wisdom, compassion and harmony, which continues to inspire people around the world. Calling the inscription a matter of national pride, PM Modi said the global recognition would encourage more visitors from across the world to travel to Sarnath and experience the ideals and teachings of Lord Buddha firsthand. Earlier in the day, UNESCO announced the inclusion of Sarnath in its prestigious World Heritage List during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee, currently being held in Busan, South Korea. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also welcomed the development, stating that the inscription reflects India's rich cultural heritage and highlights Sarnath's close association with Lord Buddha. The ministry noted that the recognition would further strengthen global appreciation of the Buddha's timeless philosophy of peace, compassion and harmony. According to the Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO, the decision was taken during the committee's ongoing session, which is being held from July 19 to 29 in Busan. India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Vishal V. Sharma, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for their efforts in securing the recognition. Sharma said Sarnath continues to hold immense spiritual significance for more than 500 million Buddhists across the globe. He added that the sacred site inspires people, particularly young generations, to pursue truth, practise non-violence, embrace mindful living and contribute towards building peaceful and inclusive societies, values that align closely with both India's civilisational ethos and UNESCO's mission. The Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO highlighted that Sarnath occupies a unique place in world history as the location where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It was here that he set the Wheel of Dharma in motion and established the Buddhist Sangha, laying the foundation for the spread of Buddhism. The delegation also noted the historical significance of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, discovered at Sarnath and later adopted as the National Emblem of India. It said the UNESCO inscription acknowledges not only the site's archaeological and historical importance but also the universal relevance of the Buddha's teachings, which continue to inspire humanity with their message of peace, compassion and harmony.