Tourism Breaking News has reported that India will host the fourth International Buddhist Conclave (IBC) in Bodhgaya and Sarnath from 26–28 September. The conclave is being organized by India’s Ministry of Tourism and the state governments of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, with the aim of promoting Buddhist heritage in India. One of the objectives for the Ministry of Tourism is to create opportunities for new business strategies to market Buddhist heritage. Travel Biz reports that over 300 delegates from 30 countries are expected to participate in the event.
Panelists at 2013 IBC. From Buddhistdoor International
The formation of the IBC was the outcome of efforts made in 2011 by Lama Lobzang and the Ashoka Mission at the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi to campaign on behalf of Buddhist interests, urging Buddhists from around the world to forge a global voice for the conservation of heritage sites.The first IBC was held in New Delhi in 2013. In an interview that year with Raymond Lam of this website, Lama Lobzang stated that “IBC’s primary objective is to become a united ‘lobby’ that is influential and resourceful enough to agitate local and state government in India to finally accord the conservation and development that Buddhist sites deserve.”
The fourth IBC plays a vital role both for Buddhists and for India. The government will join hands with various foreign delegates and business and media partners for the promotion and conservation of Buddhist sites, many of which have not yet received the attention they deserve. According to The Times of India, regional tourism officer Ravindra Kumar Mishra stated that this year’s IBC includes delegates, tour operators, and media representatives from North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
Participants and delegates of 2013 IBC. From Buddhistdoor International
The Travel Biz report states that there will be a wide range of events during the conclave—panel discussions, sightseeing and cultural programs, presentations by state tourism boards on Buddhist sites, a networking session for buyers and sellers, and an exhibition—and, according to Bihar’s minister for tourism Dr. Javed Iqbal Ansari, the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation will take delegates on guided tours of Buddhist attractions at Nalanda—ruins of the ancient university and the Xuanzang Memorial Hall; Rajgir— Shanti Stupa and Venu Vana; and Bodhgaya—Tergar Monastery, the 80-foot Buddha statue, Daijokyo Temple, the Bhutanese and Thai monasteries, and the Mahabodhi Temple.
“Buddhist tourism is mainly popular in foreign countries, especially in Southeast Asian countries,” added Dr. Ansari. “We want to promote it in India since the country holds immense potential in the segment, especially in states like Bihar, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh. Buddhist tourism holds great scope for the tourism industry of the country.”
Buddhists around the world are anxiously waiting to see how the success of the fourth IBC will benefit Buddhism and India’s tourism sector.