Shillong, Jan 28: In a huge recognition for Meghalaya’s cultural heritage, India has formally submitted its nomination dossier for “Jingkieng Jri/ Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape, Meghalaya” to the UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre for its inclusion in the list of World Heritage sites.
The dossier for possible inscription of the site on UNESCO World Heritage list in 2026-27 evaluation cycle was submitted by Vishal V Sharma, Ambassador/Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO to Lazare Assomo Eloundou, Director of UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre.
While submitting the dossier, the Ambassador thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma, Principal Secretary FR Kharkongor, officers of the Achaeological Survey India, Ministry of External Affairs, experts and the local communities guarding the property of this historic nomination.
Located across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, the nominated property represents the exceptional living cultural landscape shaped over centuries by indigenous Khasi and Jaintia communities. The landscape reflects a deep-rooted and harmonious relationship between people, nature, and spirituality embodied in traditional systems of land use, governance, and ecological stewardship.
Central to this cultural landscape is the indigenous worldview anchored in principles of respect, reciprocity and responsibility toward Mei Ramew (Mother Earth).
Submission of the nomination dossier underscores India’s commitment to recognizing and preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage, particularly the living traditions and knowledge systems of indigenous communities and to advancing global heritage conservation efforts through UNESCO, according to a press statement.
