Govt committed to preserving Buddhism, Bhoti language: Negi

Minister for Revenue, Horticulture, Tribal Development and Public Grievances Redressal, Jagat Singh Negi, on Sunday reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Buddhism and the Bhoti language, ensuring that future generations in tribal regions remain connected to their rich cultural roots.

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He was addressing the gathering as chief guest at the 90th Birth Anniversary and Year of Compassion celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama held at the Choekhorling Buddhist Monastery near the Police Line in Reckong Peo, Kinnaur district.

Highlighting the government’s cultural priorities, Negi said special emphasis is being placed on organising traditional fairs in the tribal district of Kinnaur. These events, he noted, play a crucial role in fostering mutual brotherhood, preserving age-old traditions, nurturing emotional bonds and promoting a stress-free and value-driven lifestyle in the modern age.

Paying tribute to the Dalai Lama, the minister said His Holiness has brought global recognition to Buddhism and helped the Tibetan community establish a distinct identity through decades of tireless work. He urged the audience to draw inspiration from the Dalai Lama’s life and teachings, work diligently towards their goals and embrace Buddhist values to build strong character and enhance life quality.

Negi also made a special appeal to the assembled lamas and scholars to help spread the teachings of Buddhism to every village. He encouraged them to translate Bhoti-language texts into simpler languages, making the spiritual and philosophical wealth of Buddhism more accessible to the general public.

The celebration concluded on a vibrant note, with traditional Kinnauri folk dances performed by local women’s groups and schoolchildren, infusing the spiritual event with cultural joy and community spirit.