The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage has inscribed Yoga in UNESCO's Representative List as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.<br/><br/>The declaration describing Yoga as a Human Treasure got unanimous support of the 24 members of the Committee. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson told media that the inscription gives immense recognition to Yoga and emphasizes its role as a social practice, an oral tradition and a system of ancient and scientific knowledge facilitating an enhanced harmony and peace across caste, creed, gender, age and nationality. <br/><br/>The inscription also enables a bottoms-up empowerment, as it directs the spotlight towards the numerous institutions and communities in India disseminating this ancient tradition. It can potentially foment a dialogue on the ideas of peace and tolerance to meet the sustainable development.