Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 13 (ANI): Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday hailed UNESCO's decision to include Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's 12 forts in its World Heritage list, stating that the Maratha king's 'profound' influence continues to inspire everyone.

Goyal said Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj worked to bring 'swaraj' to the country, fought for the nation's unity and integrity, and promoted development and respect for every individual to the farthest reaches.

'This is a matter of great pride for all of us. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj worked to bring 'swaraj' to the country, fought for the nation's unity and integrity, and promoted development and respect for every individual to the farthest reaches. We are deeply proud that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's 12 forts (11 in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu) have been granted World Heritage Site status. This reflects how his profound influence reached every corner and continues to inspire us all,' Goyal told mediapersons.

In a remarkable decision taken at the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee, India's official nomination for the 2024-25 cycle, 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India', got inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India's 44th property to receive this recognition. This global accolade celebrates India's enduring cultural legacy, showcasing its diverse traditions of architectural brilliance, regional identity, and historical continuity, the Ministry of Culture said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis, lauded the historic milestone and congratulated the people of India for this achievement.

The proposal was sent to the consideration of the World Heritage Committee in January 2024 and after a rigorous eighteen-month-long process involving several technical meetings with the advisory bodies and a visit of ICOMOS's mission to review the sites, this historic decision was taken by the members of the World Heritage Committee today evening at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris. (ANI)