Central Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Qiren Riji, participated in the inauguration ceremony of 108 stupas in Bhutan.

Central Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju attended the inauguration ceremony of 108 Buddhist stupas held in Thimphu, the royal capital of Bhutan, thereby adding a new cultural link to India‑Bhutan bilateral relations. This initiative was launched with the aim of preserving the Buddhist heritage of both countries and promoting spiritual cooperation. The ceremony was attended by India’s ambassador, close associates of the Prime Minister of Bhutan, and leading scholars of several Buddhist sects. Minister Rijiju said in his speech that the 108 stupas symbolize the 108 virtues of Buddhism and represent an important step towards deepening cultural and religious dialogue between the two nations. He reiterated the commitment to expand India‑Bhutan mutual cooperation in economic, security and social sectors.

In Bhutan, the project was completed with the cooperation of India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Culture, as well as the support of local Buddhist organisations. The establishment of the 108 stupas will not only boost local tourism but also aid the dissemination of Buddhist teachings. This move aligns with the strategy of India’s Ministry of Minority Affairs, which places special emphasis on the protection and development of religious and cultural minorities. In recent years, India has launched similar cultural projects in several neighboring countries, strengthening regional stability and mutual understanding.

Bhutanese political analysts view the ceremony as a symbol of strengthening strategic partnership between the two countries, saying that such cultural initiatives in the future could open new dimensions of cooperation in crucial areas such as economic collaboration, water resource management and border security. Minister Rijiju’s presence made clear that India gives a prominent place to cultural diplomacy in its foreign policy and regards the rights and protection of minority communities as a national priority. The program will remain an important platform for raising awareness among the citizens of both nations about the Buddhist heritage and deepening mutual friendship.