Smriti Irani Initiates multi Crore Buddhist Development Projects Across Five Regions
Smriti Irani Initiates Rs. 225 Crore Buddhist Development Projects Across Five Regions
Smriti Irani, Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Women & Child Development, inaugurated 38 projects through a virtual platform, marking a significant step under the Buddhist Development Plan within the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram. These projects, estimated at a total cost of Rs. 225 crore, span across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and the Union Territory of Ladakh, signifying a nationwide endeavor to promote Buddhist heritage and culture.
In a move to foster academic excellence and promote the preservation and study of Buddhist traditions, Irani announced a financial aid of Rs. 30 Crores towards strengthening the 'Centre for Advanced Studies in Buddhist Studies' at the University of Delhi. This funding is aimed at enhancing academic collaboration, research, language preservation, translation of ancient transcripts, and skill development within the Buddhist community.
Echoing the government's vision of 'विरासत के साथ विकास' (Development along with Heritage) and 'विरासत का संवर्धन' (Enhancement of Heritage), Irani emphasized the importance of integrating modern education with the conservation of Buddhist cultural heritage. She advocated for a collaborative approach among leading institutions such as the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Centre for Advanced Studies in Buddhist Studies of the University of Delhi, and other prominent institutes. The goal is to create a holistic development circuit that not only safeguards Buddhist knowledge and culture but also equips the community with contemporary educational resources.
The foundation stone-laying ceremony, held in New Delhi, also saw participation from state officials and dignitaries including Prem Sing Tamang, Chief Minister of Sikkim; Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Earth Sciences; John Barla, Minister of State of Minority Affairs; along with various state ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assemblies, highlighting the collective commitment towards the upliftment of Buddhist communities across the mentioned regions.
The Buddhist Development Plan (BDP) is part of the Government of India's broader strategy to enhance the development of minorities, with a special emphasis on Buddhist communities in remote border areas. This comprehensive program aims to integrate traditional theological education with modern academic and vocational training, thereby opening up new avenues for the younger Buddhist population. The BDP will leverage existing schemes such as PMJVK, PM-Vikas, and scholarships, along with programs administered by NMDFC and other relevant ministries, ensuring widespread access and benefits for the Buddhist communities in these five states.