CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -Saudi Arabia to chair UNESCO World Heritage Committee for first time. Saudi Arabia will host the 45th session of UNESCO’s World Heritage Commission in Riyadh for the first time this year, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Wednesday.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ) is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia.

Detailed explanation-3: -UNESCO designated Hegra as KSA’s first World Heritage Site in 2008. Located 20km north of AlUla town, the site covers 52 hectares and features 110 tombs amid stunning rock formations, with the Tomb of Lihyan, Son of Kuza the largest tomb at 22 metres tall.

Detailed explanation-4: -Dholavira and Ramappa Temple are the latest addition to the list under the ‘Cultural’ category. There are two more categories-Natural and Mixed. Latest Update about UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India: 27th July 2021 – Dholavira, Harappan City in the Rann of Kutchh, becomes India’s 40th UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Detailed explanation-5: -Correct Option: B. In June 2002, the Mahabodhi Temple became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, specifically nominated for the international World heritage program. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment.