<h4>Introduction to Maratha Military Landscapes</h4><p>India has officially nominated the <strong>“Maratha Military Landscapes”</strong> for <strong>UNESCO World Heritage recognition</strong>. This significant nomination is slated for the <strong>2024-25 cycle</strong>, highlighting a crucial aspect of India's historical and cultural heritage.</p><h4>What are Maratha Military Landscapes?</h4><div class="info-box"><p>The <strong>‘Maratha Military Landscapes’</strong> represent a unique network of <strong>12 forts and fortifications</strong>. These structures collectively showcase the extraordinary <strong>military system and strategic prowess</strong> of the <strong>Maratha rulers</strong>, spanning from the <strong>17th to the 19th centuries</strong>.</p></div><h4>Components of the Nomination</h4><p>The nomination includes a total of <strong>twelve forts</strong>, strategically located across different regions. These forts are pivotal examples of Maratha military architecture and planning.</p><ul><li><strong>Maharashtra:</strong> <strong>Salher Fort</strong>, <strong>Shivneri Fort</strong>, <strong>Lohgad</strong>, <strong>Khanderi Fort</strong>, <strong>Raigad</strong>, <strong>Rajgad</strong>, <strong>Pratapgad</strong>, <strong>Suvarnadurg</strong>, <strong>Panhala Fort</strong>, <strong>Vijaydurg</strong>, <strong>Sindhudurg</strong>.</li><li><strong>Tamil Nadu:</strong> <strong>Gingee Fort</strong>.</li></ul><h4>UNESCO Tentative List Status</h4><p>The <strong>Maratha Military Landscapes of India</strong> were previously included in the <strong>Tentative List of World Heritage Sites</strong> in <strong>2021</strong>. This is a crucial step before a property can be considered for final inscription.</p><div class="key-point-box"><p>This nomination is presented as a <strong>serial cultural property</strong>, primarily from <strong>Maharashtra</strong>, demonstrating a connected series of sites that together tell a larger historical narrative.</p></div><div class="exam-tip-box"><p>UPSC aspirants should note the distinction between being on the <strong>Tentative List</strong> and a formal <strong>nomination</strong>. Also, remember the specific year of nomination (<strong>2024-25</strong>) and the year of inclusion in the tentative list (<strong>2021</strong>).</p></div>