Overview

• UNESCO formally inscribed the Maratha Military Landscapes—twelve historic forts across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu—during its 47th session in Paris, marking India’s 44th World Heritage entry.
• The decision follows an 18-month evaluation and a targeted diplomatic effort by India’s UNESCO delegation that overturned an initial deferral recommendation from ICOMOS.
• Inscribed sites include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg and Gingee Fort, recognised for their 17th–19th century military architecture and cultural associations.
• UNESCO-prescribed conservation rules now apply to the forts, and central and state agencies are preparing detailed maintenance reports and management plans.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra leaders have called on citizens to visit the forts as public engagement initiatives are launched to boost heritage tourism and local economies.