Odisha chalks out comprehensive plan for development of Buddhist heritage sites

The Odisha government is chalking out a comprehensive plan for the integrated development, heritage conservation, and modern historical research of Odisha’s major Buddhist sites at Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, Jirang, and Dhauli, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 2nd Guru Padmasambhava Prayer Ceremony and the International Buddhist Conference at Udayagiri Buddhist heritage site in Jajpur district, Parida stated that the state government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Light of Buddha Foundation to rejuvenate Odisha’s rich Buddhist culture.

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A special expert committee is being constituted for the development of Buddhism, and emphasis is being laid on connecting Odisha to India’s Buddhist Tourism Circuit. Steps have also been initiated for the development of the Jirang Mahavihara, she added.

The International Buddhist Conference will help in the development of Buddhist tourism while spreading the message of peace and compassion across the world.

She also noted that the land of Odisha has always progressed along the path of spirituality and that the state government is making sustained efforts in this direction.

The International Buddhist Conference, which will continue till January 16, has drawn participation of over 1,700 Buddhist followers, monks, and tourists from India and abroad.