Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Statue Unveiled at UNESCO Headquarters: A Matter of Pride – CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, December 2025: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that installing the statue of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar at UNESCO headquarters is a matter of pride, historic significance, and global importance. Recognized as the architect of the Indian Constitution and a global advocate for social justice, equality, fraternity, and human rights, Dr. Ambedkar’s message that “education is the key to success” is now being shared worldwide. The statue was presented to UNESCO as a gesture of respect, Fadnavis added.

India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO in Paris, Vishal V. Sharma, met Chief Minister Fadnavis at his office to convey gratitude for presenting Dr. Ambedkar’s statue to UNESCO. Sharma noted that this is the first time in India’s 80-year membership at the United Nations platform that a statue of Dr. Ambedkar has been installed at UNESCO. He congratulated CM Fadnavis for this remarkable and historic initiative.

On behalf of the Government of India, Sharma unveiled the statue at UNESCO on November 26, 2025, on the occasion of Constitution Day. The event was attended by UNESCO’s Director-General, ambassadors from over 50 countries, and members of the UNESCO Secretariat. Messages from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan were read during the event, while CM Fadnavis addressed the gathering through a video message.

CM Fadnavis emphasized that the effort reflects the state and central governments’ commitment to spreading Dr. Ambedkar’s message of equality and the importance of education to young people across the world.

He also highlighted the inclusion of 12 forts, including 11 of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (one in Tamil Nadu), in UNESCO’s World Heritage List as a matter of pride for the state. The government plans to organize a grand celebration at Shivneri Fort on the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The state government is committed to preserving and promoting Shivaji Maharaj’s rich heritage. Through grand programs at Shivneri, his history will be passed on to future generations. Efforts are being made to link his royal seal—symbolizing “rule for public welfare”—with the message of good governance. Similarly, while including Diwali as intangible cultural heritage, the focus will be on the underlying values rather than mere display, to promote good governance principles.

Development based on forts and heritage sites is expected to create over 50,000 jobs and stimulate an economy worth ₹1,000 crore. Proposals for this were discussed during the meeting.

Also present were Ashwini Bhide, Additional Chief Secretary, Chief Minister’s Office; Kiran Kulkarni, Secretary of the Cultural Affairs Department; Dr. Tejas Garge, Director of State Archaeology; senior officers from the CM’s Office; and officials from the Cultural and Archaeology Departments. Ambassador Sharma also discussed with officials regarding a visit to Chaityabhoomi to pay tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.