'Manifestation Of India's Act East Policy': First Asian Buddhist Summit To Be Held In New Delhi From 5 To 6 November

India will host the first Asian Buddhist Summit in the national capital New Delhi from 5 to 6 November.

The summit is being organised by the Central government's Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

The theme of this summit is on ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’.

President Droupadi Murmu is expected to be the Chief Guest at the Summit, which will bring together Sangha leaders, scholars, experts and practitioners from various Buddhist traditions across Asia to foster dialogue, promote understanding and address contemporary challenges faced by the Buddhist community, according to a statement by the Ministry of Culture.

The ministry said that Buddhism holds a unique position in the spiritual and cultural history of India and pan Asia, and the teachings of the Buddha, his disciples and preachers has kept Asia united through a common outlook towards life, divinity, and social values.

Further, the Buddha Dhamma has emerged as a valuable component of India’s culture, aiding the country in developing steadfast foreign policy and effective diplomatic ties, the ministry said.

From the incorporation of Buddhist symbols as part of independent India’s national identity to the adoption of Buddhist values in its foreign policy, Buddha Dhamma, India and Asia are complimentary to each other, it added.

The Summit, according to the ministry, is also a "manifestation of India’s Act East Policy", which is principled on collective, inclusive and spiritual development of Asia with Dhamma as the guiding light.

The Asian Buddhist Summit will cover the following themes:

• Buddhist Art, Architecture and Heritage

• Buddha Cārikā and Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma

• Role of Holy Buddhist Relics and its Relevance in Society

• Significance of Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well Being

• Role of Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in 21st Century

In addition to deliberations on the above topics, a special exhibition is curated on the theme India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) connecting Asia; would also form part of the event, among other creative displays at the venue.

Also Read:India's Defence Exports To Touch Rs 50,000 Crore By 2029-30: Rajnath Singh