UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a key topic under Art And Culture for UPSC Civil Services Examination. Key points include: The UNESCO ICH List was established in 2008 to safeguard living cultural heritage.. Intangible Cultural Heritage includes practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills recognized by communities.. It is also known as 'living cultural heritage' due to its dynamic and evolving nature.. Understanding this topic is essential for both UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation.
UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a Easy-level topic in UPSC Art And Culture. It is tested in both Prelims (factual MCQs) and Mains (analytical answer writing). Previous year UPSC questions have frequently covered aspects of UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making it essential for comprehensive IAS preparation.
To prepare UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for UPSC: (1) Study the comprehensive notes covering all key concepts on Vaidra. (2) Practice previous year questions on this topic. (3) Connect it with current affairs using daily updates. (4) Revise using key takeaways and mind maps available for Art And Culture. (5) Write practice answers linking UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity to related GS Paper topics.

The UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a prestigious compilation. It highlights various intangible heritage elements that showcase the immense diversity of cultural heritage across the globe.
Its primary purpose is to raise global awareness regarding the critical importance of safeguarding these living traditions.
This significant list was formally established in 2008. Its creation coincided with the official coming into effect of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) encompasses the practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities, groups, and sometimes individuals recognize as integral to their cultural identity. It is often referred to as 'living cultural heritage'.
Intangible Cultural Heritage is manifested in various forms, reflecting the rich tapestry of human creativity and tradition. These forms are recognized globally and include:


Desecration of Shiva & Nandi Idols at Sri Ramalingeshwar Temple, Gadag – Implications for Heritage Protection and Law Enforcement
15 Feb 2026
Heritage Foods, Ghee Controversy & Tirumala Laddu Issue: Political Fallout and UPSC Implications (Feb 2026)
13 Feb 2026
Encroachment of Platform Shops at UNESCO‑Listed Brihadisvara Temple: Heritage Conservation vs Tourism Pressure
12 Feb 2026
Kerala‑Lakshadweep ‘Youth 4 Nation’ Launch: Cultural Heritage & Youth Mobilisation – UPSC Insight
6 Feb 2026