Nalanda to improve ties with Buddhist nations

Patna, Apr 23 (UNI) Nalanda, an ancient seat of learning, will soon become a gateway for improving ties with China and other buddhist South East Asian countries.

Talking on the concept of 'cultural village' in Nalanda, Nav Nalanda Mahvihar vice-chancellor R Pant said here yesterday that, ''China was taking keen interest in the buddhist sites and that there is a place named 'Rajgir' in Lingsa province, where a 200 ft statue of Lord Buddha has been installed.'' Elaborating on the cultural village he said it would be spread over 64 acres of land for the tourists visiting from different countries.

Nepura village in Silao block was also being developed for its specialisation in silk weaving, as silk bags were quite popular among the Budhist monks, he added.

Nalanda pottery, which was also popular among the tourists, would be given due attention so that the local artisans were benifited, Dr Pant said adding that ITDC is also engaged in preparing detailed plan for the ''cultural village''.

The Centre for Disaster Management and Rural Development (GOSCDMRD) here was also preparaing perspective plan for the village.

UNI RH-RS PP AB 1146