Arunachal Pradeshs Role in Preserving Buddhist Heritage Highlighted by Chief Minister Pema Khandu

Itanagar, November 3 (Daily Kiran) : Arunachal Pradesh has long served as a vibrant center for Buddhist philosophy, culture, and spiritual exchange. Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized this significant role during the opening session of an international conference titled “Buddhism: Spread in the Himalayan Region and Beyond” held in Tawang.

Speaking at the event, Khandu noted that the state’s Buddhist heritage holds a unique place within the broader Buddhist tradition. The monasteries, viharas, temples, and secluded meditation sites found in Tawang and its surroundings are not merely places of worship. They are also repositories of knowledge, centers of education, and living institutions that have preserved invaluable spiritual and cultural legacies for centuries.

Reiterating the state government‘s commitment to safeguarding this heritage, Khandu stated that development and modernization must align with the region’s cultural and ecological values. He highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh’s Buddhist heritage is not only a source of spiritual strength but also a vital bridge connecting diverse communities, nations, and civilizations.

Khandu called upon the world to embrace the eternal teachings of Lord Buddha—compassion, wisdom, and the Middle Path—especially during these times marked by conflict, intolerance, and growing divisions. He asserted that Buddha’s teachings illuminate the path towards peace, harmony, and collective welfare. This international conference is jointly organized by the Arunachal Pradesh government and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) with support from the Ministry of Culture.

Welcoming the representatives on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, Khandu described Tawang as a spiritually rich land. He noted that it is home to the Tawang Monastery, a major center for Buddhist knowledge and education. The significance of holding this conference in Tawang is underscored by the presence of sacred relics of Lord Buddha in the area. Khandu portrayed Buddhism not merely as a religion but as a way of life based on compassion, wisdom, and the Middle Path.

He expressed confidence that the presence of esteemed scholars and spiritual thinkers at the conference would yield important insights to convey Buddha’s message to future generations. Khandu also extended his gratitude to the International Buddhist Confederation for partnering with the state government.

The conference commenced with a Manglacharan by members of the federation, followed by a welcome address from IBC Secretary General Sharatse Khenser Rinpoche Jangchup Choedon. Rev. Dramed Sungrab Tulku La, the head of the Tawang Gadhen Namgyal Lhatse Monastery, and the ABC president also addressed the gathering.

The program included a panel discussion led by Professor Moji Riba from Rajiv Gandhi University, featuring speakers from Arunachal Pradesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Delhi. Subsequent sessions included contributions from scholars from Germany, Indonesia, Nepal, Malaysia, and various regions of India.