Cooch Behar Archive (CBA) marked World Heritage Day 2026 with a structured outreach initiative aimed at building awareness and interest in heritage studies among students. The programme, titled ‘Talks on Heritage with Emphasis on Cooch Behar: What the Young Generation Thinks’, was held at the historic residence of late folklorist Harish Chandra Paul at 49, Sunity Road.
The event commenced at 5 pm with the ceremonial lamp lighting by Dr. Madhuparna Mitra Guha of University B.T. & Evening College, followed by a welcome address by CBA Executive Member Monosij Sen. Dr. Guha, in her keynote on ‘World Heritage Day and the Heritage of Cooch Behar: Our Duty and Delights’, outlined the multi-layered scope of heritage—from local traditions to global frameworks—highlighting preservation as a critical priority.
Eight schools across the district participated, with 17 shortlisted students from Classes IX–XII presenting research-driven talks. Themes ranged from cultural heritage and folk traditions to architecture and geo-heritage, reflecting growing academic engagement in the field.
The programme also featured an exhibition titled ‘Cooch Behar Heritage: Through Archives’, along with an archive and library visit. An expert-led interactive session discussed career pathways and future prospects in heritage studies.
Tanvir Hossain and Prarona Karmakar jointly secured first place, followed by Debangshik Biswas and Mannika Singha Karjee. The session was judged by Dr. Guha and Rzishikalpa Paul.
