NCM organizes National Seminar on ‘Buddhism in Modern India’ in New Delhi.

New Delhi, February 27, 2026: The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) today organized a national seminar on “Buddhism in Modern India: Navigating Cultural and Social Pathways” at the SCOP Complex in 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.

Union Ministers and NCM dignitaries grace the occasion:

The program was attended by Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian.

Other distinguished attendees included Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden, Secretary General International Buddhist Confederation, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, NCM, Atya Nand, Joint Secretary, NCM, and Senior officials from various ministries.

In his address, Kiren Rijiju underscored the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich Buddhist heritage while ensuring inclusive development for minority communities.

George Kurian highlighted the Government’s commitment to strengthening cultural identity and advancing educational opportunities for Buddhist communities across the country.

Panel discussion on Contemporary challenges:

The seminar featured a substantive panel discussion moderated by Niraj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

Distinguished speakers included Testen Tashi Bhutia, Former Minister, Sikkim; Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, Mahayana Senior Buddhist Monk, Delhi; Jigme Youdron Lhamo, In-charge Druk Drilburi Nunnery, Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh; Mahendra Bhante, Bhadant Gyaneshwar Buddha Vihar, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh; Manisha Sinha, Professor (Ex-Head), Department of History,  Magadh University, Bodhgaya; Sanjeev Kumar H. M., Professor, Department of Political Science, 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 promoting 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.

The event highlighted Buddhism’s continuing significance in India’s pluralistic framework and its potential contribution to inclusive and sustainable development.

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EOM.