Itanagar, May 7: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Thursday proposed an integrated Buddhist tourism circuit linking key spiritual destinations across Northeast India and neighbouring countries, suggesting it be branded as the “Tawang Initiative” to give the project a distinct global identity.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Regional Workshop on Development of the Buddhist Circuit in Northeast India at Tawang, Mein said the initiative could strengthen regional cooperation and promote shared Buddhist heritage across South Asia.
Taking to X, Mein said the workshop had brought together delegates from Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka to develop a vibrant Buddhist tourism circuit rooted in shared spiritual and cultural connections.
He also acknowledged the efforts of Veena Sikri and the South Asia Women’s Network for organising the workshop and fostering regional dialogue and collaboration.
Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s significance in the Buddhist world, Mein said the state is home to ancient monasteries and sacred landscapes stretching from Tawang — the birthplace of the Sixth Dalai Lama — to Bomdila, Dirang, Mechuka and Tuting in western Arunachal, along with the thriving Theravada Buddhist tradition in Namsai in the east.
“We are committed to developing a comprehensive Buddhist circuit that connects these spiritual centres with major destinations across the Northeast, mainland India and neighbouring countries,” Mein said, adding that the initiative would help preserve the region’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy while boosting tourism.
He further announced that Arunachal Pradesh plans to host an international tourism event later this year and invited global stakeholders to collaborate in positioning the state as a premier tourism destination.
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