Arunachal Pradesh Promotes Buddhist Tourism with Global Conclave in Namsai

Arunachal Pradesh Showcases Buddhist Heritage at Global Conclave in Namsai, Eyes Tourism Boost

In a significant push to promote Buddhist tourism, Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein, spotlighted Namsai’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage at the International Conclave on Buddha Dhamma and North-East India’s cultural traditions. The event, hosted in Namsai, drew over 300 participants, including international Buddhist leaders, scholars, and political dignitaries from Bhutan, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

Mein emphasized Namsai’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, calling it a “living testament” to ancient practices that continue to shape community life. He urged both the central and state governments to support the development of a Buddhist tourism circuit across Arunachal Pradesh to highlight the state’s sacred sites and festivals. “Events like the Songpa Water Festival, recently celebrated with great success by the Khamti community, show the potential for spiritual and cultural tourism,” he noted, pointing out the influx of foreign visitors during the festival.

The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted Arunachal’s long-standing connection to Buddhism, noting that the region houses many ancient pilgrimage sites. He paid homage to the Tai Khamti community’s role in resisting colonial forces, particularly during the Anglo-Khamti War of 1839, when they briefly defeated British troops before suffering retaliation. “Our villages were burned, and our people were displaced, but we preserved our culture,” he remarked.

A key highlight of Mein’s address was the emphasis on preserving the Pali language through the unique Khamti script — one of only two ancient scripts still in use in the state. “Our sacred texts, including versions of the Ramayan and Mahabharat, are written in Khamti script. We are committed to preserving this linguistic heritage,” he said.

He praised the efforts of the Mahabodhi Society in Namsai for their continued support in preserving and promoting Buddhist values in the region. Mein also expressed optimism about the establishment of a skill development centre in collaboration with Buddhist institutions to empower local youth.

The conclave was jointly organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the Ministry of Culture, and the Arunachal Pradesh government, with strong support from the Mahabodhi Society of Namsai. Bhutan’s Consul General in Guwahati, Jigme Thinly Namgyal, addressed the gathering at the opening session, while IBC Director General Abhijit Halder outlined the goals of the conclave.

MLA of Namsai, Zingnu Namchoom, echoed Mein’s sentiments and spoke of Buddhism’s profound influence on daily life in the region. “For us, Dharma is not just a belief, it’s our culture and our lifestyle. Even our wedding rituals are deeply guided by the Buddha’s teachings,” he said.

The religious tone of the event was set by a Dhamma address delivered by Most Ven. Aggadhamma Bhaddanta, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara. IBC Secretary General Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche welcomed participants from across the globe.

The conclave included sessions on the historical relevance of Buddha Dhamma in North-East India, the art and heritage of local Buddhist communities, and the cultural expressions of spirituality. A special Vipassana meditation session and interfaith prayer ceremony were also held at the Golden Pagoda to express solidarity with victims of the recent earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand.

With the conclave shining a spotlight on Arunachal’s cultural and spiritual wealth, the state is poised to make Buddhist tourism a vital part of its identity and economic growth.