The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture is hosting a two-day International Conclave at Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, titled “Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North-East India” on 21-22 April 2025. The event is likely to be attended by the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Shri Pema Khandu. The Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Chowna Mein who hails from this region, is also likely to participate.

North- East India, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, is a significant centre for Buddhist traditions, monastic culture, and heritage. The region has preserved and propagated various Buddhist traditions, including Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna.

The Government of India is actively involved in several initiatives to promote Buddhist tourism, heritage conservation, and cultural exchange programmes to strengthen the presence of Buddha Dhamma in the region. To explore the significance of “Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North - East India”, IBC is organising the 2-day event at the Multipurpose Cultural Hall, Namsai.

While the first day will include three panel discussions on - its historical relevance, art and culture of the region and cultural impact of Buddha Dhamma on the neighbouring countries, and vice versa, the second day will be dedicated to practicing Vipassana and praying for world peace at the famous Golden Pagoda.

Historically, Buddha Dhamma reached North-East India during the reign of Emperor Ashoka and expanded to other neighbouring regions. It has played a crucial role in the Buddhist cultural corridor connecting India to Southeast Asia.

Besides, the North- East India is home to several indigenous tribes that have integrated Buddha Dhamma with their traditional customs. Diverse Buddhist traditions, Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna, flourish here.

A backgrounder on Buddhism in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh is attached: -

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

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