- A UNESCO expert committee reviewing the conservation of the World Heritage site of Hampi has emphasized the critical need for stronger community participation. - The committee underlined that sustainable heritage management requires involving local residents and stakeholders rather than relying purely on top-down administrative controls. - Integrating local communities helps balance modern developmental needs with the preservation of historical integrity and archaeological value at Hampi. - **UNESCO:** A specialized agency of the United Nations promoting international cooperation in education, arts, sciences, and culture, known for designating and monitoring World Heritage Sites globally. - **UNESCO Expert Committee:** A specialized evaluation body deployed by UNESCO to inspect, review, and advise on the conservation status, management frameworks, and sustainable development compliance of designated World Heritage Sites. **Introduction** A UNESCO expert committee has recommended bolstering community participation in the conservation and management of the World Heritage site of Hampi, Karnataka, stressing that local stakeholder engagement is vital for balancing heritage preservation with sustainable development. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - A UNESCO expert committee reviewing the conservation of the World Heritage site of Hampi has emphasized the critical need for stronger community participation. - The committee underlined that sustainable heritage management requires involving local residents and stakeholders rather than relying purely on top-down administrative controls. - Integrating local communities helps balance modern developmental needs with the preservation of historical integrity and archaeological value at Hampi. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **UNESCO:** A specialized agency of the United Nations promoting international cooperation in education, arts, sciences, and culture, known for designating and monitoring World Heritage Sites globally. - **UNESCO Expert Committee:** A specialized evaluation body deployed by UNESCO to inspect, review, and advise on the conservation status, management frameworks, and sustainable development compliance of designated World Heritage Sites.