Chief Minister Pema Khandu has called for a renewed global commitment to Lord Buddha’s foundational principles of compassion, wisdom, and the Middle Path to foster peace and social unity in an era increasingly marked by international conflicts, intolerance, and ideological divisions. Addressing the inaugural session of the international conference titled “Buddhism: Dissemination in the Himalayan Region and Beyond” at Kalawangpo Hall in Tawang, Khandu underscored that Buddhist philosophy offers a crucial roadmap toward global harmony and collective human well-being. The landmark event was jointly organized by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), with support from the Union Ministry of Culture. Welcoming international delegates to the spiritually vibrant region, Khandu highlighted the profound cultural resonance of holding the gathering in Tawang—home to the historic Tawang Monastery and currently hosting the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha. Describing Buddhism as an enduring way of life rather than merely a religious system, the Chief Minister emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh has functioned for centuries as a vital living bridge for the exchange of philosophy, spirituality, and culture across the Himalayan zone. He noted that the region’s monasteries, nunneries, and hermitages are not simple places of worship, but active repositories of ancient wisdom that safeguard a rich legacy. Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to protecting this cultural heritage, Khandu maintained that ongoing economic development and modern infrastructure expansion must remain in complete alignment with local ecological and spiritual values. The inaugural program commenced with traditional Mangalacharan prayers led by the Sangha, alongside welcoming remarks from IBC Secretary General Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden and key addresses by Rev Dramed Sungrab Tulku la, Abbot of Tawang Monastery. Featuring diverse panel discussions moderated by academic experts like Prof. Moji Riba, the conference gathered renowned scholars and spiritual leaders from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Germany, Indonesia, Nepal, Malaysia, and across India to explore strategies for transmitting Buddhist teachings to future generations while positioning the region’s spiritual traditions as a unifying bridge connecting modern civilizations.
