Maratha Military Landscapes Inscribed as World Heritage Site
Why focus: GS1 Art & Culture — UNESCO tag. Prime setup for Match-the-Following format pairing the 12 fortifications with their respective States/regions.
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: The 12 Maratha forts were maintained primarily as separate national or state-protected monuments with limited international visibility. NOW: They are unified under a single serial UNESCO World Heritage designation, mandating adherence to international conservation guidelines.
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BEFORE: India's recognized UNESCO World Heritage list contained 43 properties. NOW: The addition of the Maratha Military Landscapes elevates India's total to 44 World Heritage Sites.
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BEFORE: Global recognition of Indian military architecture was historically skewed toward Rajputana and Mughal forts. NOW: The distinct Maratha style, characterized by its integration with the rugged Sahyadri mountains and Konkan coastline, has achieved equal global prominence.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maratha Military Landscapes recently inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? 1. The property is a serial nomination comprising forts located exclusively in the state of Maharashtra. 2. The fortifications demonstrate military architecture adapted to both the Sahyadri mountain ranges and the Konkan coastline.