National Commission for Minorities organizes National Seminar on Buddhism in Modern India
National Commission for Minorities organizes National Seminar on Buddhism in Modern India
National Commission for Minorities (NCM) today organized a national seminar on “Buddhism in Modern India: Navigating Cultural and Social Pathways” at the SCOP Complex, New Delhi. The seminar brought together policymakers, scholars, spiritual leaders, and community representatives to deliberate on the evolving role of Buddhism in India’s socio-cultural landscape.
The programme was graced by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Minority Affairs, and Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs. Shri Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden, Secretary General, International Buddhist Confederation, also graced the occasion. Senior officials present included Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs; Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, NCM; and Dr. Atya Nand, Joint Secretary, NCM and various other Officials from different Ministries.
In his address, Shri Kiren Rijiju underscored the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich Buddhist heritage while ensuring inclusive development for minority communities. Shri George Kurian highlighted the Government’s commitment to strengthening cultural identity and educational advancement among Buddhists across the country.
The seminar featured a substantive panel discussion moderated by Shri Niraj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. Distinguished speakers included Shri Testen Tashi Bhutia, Former Minister, Sikkim; Acharya Shri Yeshi Phuntsok, Mahayana Senior Buddhist Monk, Delhi; Ms. Jigme Youdron Lhamo, Incharge, Druk Drilburi Nunnery, Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh; Shri Mahendra Bhante, Bhadant Gyaneshwar Buddha Vihar, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Manish Sinha, Professor (Ex-Head), Department of History, Magadh University, Bodhgaya; and Dr. Sanjeev Kumar H.M., Professor, Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Delhi.
The discussion explored contemporary challenges and opportunities for Buddhism in India, including heritage conservation, education, youth engagement, regional development, and the global relevance of Buddhist philosophy in fostering peace and social harmony.
The seminar concluded with a reaffirmation of the NCM’s commitment to facilitating dialogue, research, and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the cultural and social pathways of Buddhism in modern India.