 Early Times Report
BAIJNATH, July 5: Governor Kavinder Gupta today said that at a time when the world is grappling with severe challenges like violence, intolerance, wars, environmental degradation, and the erosion of moral values, the teachings of Lord Buddha, compassion, the Middle Path, non-violence, and wisdom, have become more relevant than ever. Quoting the eternal message of the Dhammapada, the Governor emphasized that hatred can never be appeased by hatred; it can only be overcome by love and compassion, which is the eternal law.
The Governor said this while addressing a national seminar titled From Nalanda to the Himalayas- The Unbroken Legacy of the Buddhist Knowledge Tradition" at Tashijong in Baijnath today, where he was present as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gupta stated that the ancient Nalanda University was not merely an educational institution but a beacon of knowledge for the entire world, where high-quality research was conducted in fields like philosophy, logic, medicine, grammar, mathematics, and astronomy. He noted that although the physical structure of Nalanda was destroyed over time, the monasteries, viharas, and Buddhist institutions in the Himalayas have kept this great legacy alive for centuries by preserving Indian languages, culture, art, and priceless manuscripts. From this perspective, the Indian Himalayas are truly the genuine custodians of Nalanda's living heritage.
The Governor lauded the unique initiative of the Council to implement the curriculum of the National Institute of Open Schooling in monasteries. He said that this step would serve as a meaningful bridge between traditional monastic education and modern formal education, enabling young monks and nuns to attain quality education and nationally recognized academic qualifications while maintaining their spiritual practices.
Appreciating the efforts of the office-bearers of the Council established under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Governor urged the youth of the country to draw inspiration from the core ideals of the Nalanda tradition-curiosity, logical thinking, discipline, compassion, and human service. He emphasized that to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, it is imperative to give equal importance to our rich Indian knowledge tradition, cultural heritage, and moral values alongside modern science and technology.
Earlier, Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta formally inaugurated the seminar by lighting the traditional lamp. The national seminar was organized by the Indian Himalayan Nalanda Buddhist Tradition Council in collaboration with the Khampagar Monastery, Tashi Jong. The event witnessed in-depth deliberations on the modernization of monastic education and the relevance of Buddhist philosophy in addressing global challenges.
Minister of Religion and Culture CTA Dharamshala Tsegiyal Chukya Dranyi, Spiritual Head of Khampagar Monastery H.E. Khamtrul Rinpoche, Khenpo Choying Lundup, Khenpo Pema Negi from Palpung Sherabling Monastery, MLA Baijnath Kishori Lal, Director of NIOS Dr. Rajiv Kumar Singh, Deputy Commissioner Kangra Hemraj Bairwa, and Superintendent of Police Kangra Kulbhushan Verma were also present among other dignitaries on the occasion. |
