For the first time in 13 years, devotees in Arunachal Pradesh can pay their respects to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha. The relics are currently on display at the historic Tawang Monastery.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the exposition on Saturday. The exhibition will remain in Tawang until November 7. It will then move to West Kameng from November 8 to 14, followed by Namsai from November 14 to 21. The programme will allow devotees across the three districts to offer prayers and pay their respects.

During the inauguration, Khandu acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Ministry of Culture for their support in bringing the relics to the state. He highlighted the importance of Lord Buddha's teachings, particularly compassion, peace and coexistence, amid ongoing conflicts and uncertainty across the world. He also thanked the 14th Dalai Lama for his blessings and greetings.

The Chief Minister read out a message from PM Modi highlighting India's efforts to preserve and promote its Buddhist heritage. The initiatives included developing important pilgrimage centres such as Bodh Gaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar, organising international Buddhist conferences and facilitating the return of the Piprahwa relics after more than a century.

Khandu also announced the formation of the Arunachal Buddhist Confederation to bring the state's Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist communities under a common platform.

Venerable Agadhamma, Chief Monk of Namsai Pariyatti Sasana Buddhist Vihara, has been appointed as the Confederation's first president. Thupten Kalden, Director of the Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs, will serve as its Secretary General.

The organisation is expected to seek affiliation with the International Buddhist Confederation. It aims to strengthen coordination among Buddhist institutions and provide a common platform for different Buddhist traditions in the state.

Khandu also highlighted the Centre's proposal to develop Buddhist heritage sites across the Northeast. He said the initiative could help preserve historically significant religious sites and promote spiritual tourism in the region.