Buddhist conference to be held in Aurangabad

With an aim to promote prominent Buddhist heritage and pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation in association with the Ministry of Tourism is organizing the “6th International Buddhist Conclave 2018 on 24th August in Aurangabad.

The International Buddhist Conclave 2018 will highlight traditional and historical facets of Buddhism across the world.

Buddhist delegates, monks and the consulate general from 12 to 15 Buddhist nations will be present at the conclave where business meetings between them and domestic tour operators will be facilitated. Additionally, presentations and cultural programmes will be used to highlight the Buddhist attractions across Maharashtra. The conclave will offer participants a platform to interact, encourage, package and sell pilgrimage tours to potential tourists.

The International Buddhist Conclave is a testament of the Ministry of Tourism and Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation towards its commitment to advance the experience of travellers as well as tourists looking to experience the spirit of Buddhist inheritance of our country, MTDC officials said.

Commenting on the occasion, tourism minister Jaykumar Rawal, said, “Buddhist tourism is a growing sector and the International Buddhist Conclave will help us understand its potential and opportunities to promote Buddhist sites in the state. I am certain through this initiative Maharashtra will be able to attract Buddhist travellers from across the world. The Ministry of Tourism has also recognized stupas and viharas across the country and is planning to develop these Buddhist circuits.”

Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Vijay Kumar Gautam said, “I would like to express my gratitude to all the delegates from all over the world who have joined us today at the International Buddhist Conclave 2018 in Aurangabad. This is a great opportunity for us to interact with each other and promote the teachings of Lord Buddha. Buddhism binds the culture of our country and neighbouring nations. I am sure that the event will be a success, and this will also help in opening many such avenues in the future.”

Commenting on the occasion, Suhas Diwase, Managing Director, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation said, “Our aim is to extend the prospects of Buddhist tourism around the world by inspiring travellers to understand the rich inheritance through shrines and centres in Maharashtra. I believe that the Buddhist circuits in the state will be of interest to travellers who are looking for unique experiences in their journey to discover Lord Buddha’s voyage and attainment of nirvana.”