Maratha Military Landscapes Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Status
India has officially nominated the 'Maratha Military Landscapes' for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the 2024-25 cycle.
Key Points for Quick Revision
- India nominated 'Maratha Military Landscapes' for UNESCO World Heritage status.
- The nomination includes 12 specific forts across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
- The sites represent the military strategy and architecture of the Maratha Empire.
- Key forts included are Raigad, Shivneri, and Pratapgad.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | High | 10–20 | Ancient, medieval, and modern history form a full section in UPSC Prelims and GS-I Mains. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Medium | 3–5 | Modern Indian history, freedom struggle, and cultural heritage appear in SSC CGL. |
| State PCS / PSC | High | 5–10 | Regional history is specifically tested in state exams — Maratha history in Maharashtra, etc. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Anniversaries: birth/death anniversaries of important historical figures in the news
- Cultural events and their historical significance
- Archaeological discoveries: site, period, excavating body
- UNESCO World Heritage additions: site name, location, significance
- Art and literature awards linked to historical works
Practice Questions
Q1. How many components/forts are included in the 'Maratha Military Landscapes' nomination?
- 10
- 12
- 15
- 8
Explanation: The nomination for the Maratha Military Landscapes includes 12 specific components/forts.
Q2. Which Maratha fort is known as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj?
- Raigad
- Shivneri
- Pratapgad
- Lohagad
Explanation: Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is part of the UNESCO nomination.
How to Prepare History & Culture for Government Exams
When a historical figure is in the news, revise 5 key facts about their contribution — this is typically what the exam asks.
For SSC and Railway, focus on dates and names. For UPSC, understand the social, economic, and political context.
Maintain a 'This Week in History' note — anniversaries and commemorations generate predictable exam questions.