PM Modi at SAMVAD Thailand: Strengthening Cultural & Global Peace

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an important video presentation at the SAMVAD program in Thailand where he highlighted how Asian cultures share both philosophical teachings and spiritual practices. The head of state described how Shinzo Abe established SAMVAD back in 2015 while he explained how India and Thailand share cultural elements which include both the Ramayana traditions and teachings of Bhagwan Buddha. The Prime Minister stressed the Middle Path strategy which Buddha established as a means to tackle worldwide crises along with extremism and environmental issues. During his visit PM Modi described Indian projects dedicated to Buddhist heritage maintenance notably the Buddhist Circuit together with the Kushinagar Airport development and the restoration of Nalanda University. The PM declared Pali as a classical language while emphasizing Buddhist cooperation between India and other nations.  The head of the Dalai Lama honored Thailand before wishing for Dhamma’s wisdom to lead a peaceful and prosperous world ahead.

Significance of SAMVAD and Cultural Ties

• SAMVAD’s inception: Initiated in 2015 through discussions with Shinzo Abe.

• Cultural bridge functions to enhance the relations between India and Thailand because of their shared spiritual beliefs and philosophical traditions.

• The Ramayana spiritual heritage of India signifies the same cultural roots as the Ramakien tradition in Thailand.

• Millions throughout Thailand give reverence to Bhagwan Buddha’s relics which demonstrates their shared spiritual bond.

Conflict Avoidance and the Asian Century

• Buddha’s teachings as guidance: Advocates a human-centric, peaceful approach to global challenges.

• The approach supports diverse perspectives by referring to both Rig Veda and Dhammapada.

• The concept of Middle Path urges people to use balanced methods for solving political battles as well as social disputes and environmental problems.

Addressing Environmental Challenges

• Sustainable development through Dhamma principles should govern the battle between human activities and natural resources.

• The trusteeship approach draws inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi to fulfill responsible resource utilization.

India’s Contributions to Buddhist Heritage

• Tourism & Infrastructure:

  • Buddhist Circuit: Enhancing pilgrimage routes.

  • Kushinagar International Airport: Facilitating global Buddhist pilgrimages.

  • Bodh Gaya Development: Improving connectivity and facilities.

• Nalanda Revival: Restoring India’s ancient knowledge hub.

• Pali as a Classical Language: Ensuring the preservation of Buddha’s teachings.

• Under Gyan Bharatam Mission India has initiated a project that digitizes and organizes ancient Buddhist manuscripts.

India’s Global Buddhist Collaborations

• Summits & Conferences: Hosted Asian and Global Buddhist Summits.

• Monument Conservation: Supporting the preservation of Buddhist sites worldwide.

• International Initiatives:

  • India International Center for Buddhist Culture & Heritage (Lumbini, Nepal).

  • Reprinting Mongolian Kanjur for Buddhist monasteries.

Promoting Interfaith Harmony

• Religious Roundtable: Encouraging dialogue among diverse faith leaders.

• Shared vision for peace: Calls for unity through Dhamma’s principles.

Conclusion

• The conference took place in Thailand and those organizers deserve our appreciation.

• Buddha's teachings power the expectation of building a peaceful environment that will manifest progression and prosperity.