Why is it in News?
- Deepavali festival officially inscribed in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
- Announced at UNESCO ICH Committee session in New Delhi.
Important Points
- Added to UNESCO’s Representative List.
- Recognises Deepavali cultural and social identity.
- Supports SDGs (livelihoods, wellbeing, gender inclusion).
- India hosts the UNESCO ICH committee session.
- Part of 2003 UNESCO convention framework.
- India already has elements like Garba, Durga Puja, Yoga and more.