Follow Lord Buddha's principles for peace and harmony: Governor

Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Nov 24 (UNI) Arunachal Pradesh Governor K Sankaranarayanan today exhorted the people to follow the path of non-violence, preached by Lord Buddha, for peace and harmony in the state.

Addressing the second day of the Seventh Buddha Mahotsava here this morning, the Governor opined that following the universal principles of love and tolerance, the essence of the true Buddhist thought and philosophy, would bring in peace, harmony and fulfilment.

Describing Tawang as a leading centre of Mahayana Buddhism in the world, the Governor said the unique place of Tawang in Buddhist traditions was a part of the spiritual treasures that Arunachal offered to the world.

The tribal communities of the state with its unique customs and traditions, coupled with a variety of dance forms, music, handicrafts and cuisines, made it an amazing melting pot of nature, religion and culture, Mr Sankaranarayanan commented.

''Arunachal is endowed with God's gifts of natural resources and is an ideal place for eco-tourism and adventure sports,'' the Governor said, adding that optimum use of such resources were the requirement for a vibrant tourism industry in the state, which would contribute to the economy and create employment opportunities.

Earlier, the Governor, accompanied by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu and state tourism secretary Bandana Deori visited the Tawang Monastery, the second largest in Asia, and announced to donate Rs one lakh to the monastery management committee.

The Governor, accompanied by his wife, also visted Bumla at the Indo-China border yesterday.

UNI