New Delhi || 04-11-2024 The President of India Droupadi Murmu is expected to grace the event as the Chief Guest at the First Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) on 5th – 6th November, 2024 in New Delhi.
ABS is organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
The theme of the summit is on ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’. Through the summit, it shall 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.
Buddhism holds a unique position in the spiritual and cultural history of India and pan Asia.The teachings of the Buddha, His disciples and preachers has kept Asia united through a common outlook towards life, divinity, and social values.
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. 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.
The Summit 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. With this spirit, the Asian Buddhist Summit will cover various themes like 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 various topics, a special exhibition is curated on the theme India as the Dhamma Setu connecting Asia; would also form part of the event, among other creative displays at the venue.
