27 Jan Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP)
This article covers ‘Daily Current Affairs’ and the topic details of “Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP)’’. This topic is relevant in the “Indian Culture” section of the UPSC CSE exam.
Why in the News?
The 12th General Assembly of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP), a voluntary mass movement of Asian Buddhists, was recently held in New Delhi.
Important highlights of 12th General Assembly of ABCP-
- Theme: Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP) – “The Buddhist Voice of Global South”, symbolises India’s commitment, as evidenced by its G20 leadership and the Voice of Global South Summit.
- Constitutional Recognition of Buddha’s Influence: The image of Lord Buddha in the artwork of the Indian Constitution was highlighted, particularly in Part V, where he appears in the section on Union government.
- India’s commitment to Buddha’s path: India was shown as a nation guided by Buddha’s principles. India was recognised for its proactive involvement in building the Buddhist circuit and creating the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture.
About Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP)-
- ABCP was created in 1970 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, as a voluntary Buddhist movement that included both monastic (monk) and lay members.
- ABCP was then formed by Buddhist dignitaries from India, Mongolia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, the Soviet Union, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, South and North Korea.
- Aim:
- The major goal of the conference is to investigate and discuss Buddhism’s role in promoting global peace. Delegates from several Asian countries engaged in in-depth discussions, sharing views and experiences on how Buddhist precepts might be applied to today’s difficulties and conflicts.
- The conference’s goal is to sow the foundations of harmony and cooperation, instilling a sense of shared responsibility for the welfare of the planet.
- The conference also functioned as a melting pot of numerous cultural manifestations, featuring traditional Buddhist ceremonies, art, and music from several locations. These cultural interactions not only honoured the diversity of Asian Buddhist heritage, but also reinforced the common ideals that undergird Buddha’s teachings.
Using Buddhist teachings in Good Governance
- In policymaking: The Buddha’s emphasis on maintaining the Right View—which avoids distortion and delusion—aligns with the values of openness, impartiality, and evidence-based decision-making, which are cornerstones of effective governance. For instance, Bhutan’s index of Gross National Happiness, which is based on Buddhist principles, attempts to gauge public well-being in addition to financial metrics.
- Compassionate Governance: Leaders are encouraged by the fundamental teachings of the Buddha to take into account the needs and suffering of all citizens, not only members of particular groups.
- Good Conduct in Leadership: Public servants can be held to the Buddha’s Five Precepts, which include refraining from violence, stealing, lying, sexual misbehaviour, and intoxication.
- Discourse and Peaceful Conflict Resolution: The Buddha’s focus on Right Speech and Right Action encourages civil discourse and peaceful resolution of disputes. This can be used in interfaith discussions, international diplomacy, and even domestic political discourse.
How Teachings of Buddha Can Help in Present-Day Worlds?
- Guiding light during uncertain times: The ageless teachings of Buddha are a great source of wisdom and comfort in the hectic and volatile world of today. His understanding of the essence of suffering, transience, and the way to enlightenment offers a compass for navigating the difficulties of the modern world.
- Accepting Transience: Managing Transition: The impermanence of everything and the certainty of change are highlighted in the teachings of the Buddha. Understanding and appreciating impermanence becomes a powerful tool in managing uncertainty, building resilience, and gracefully adjusting to life’s ups and downs in a world that is continuously changing.
- Having empathy in a divided world: Buddha’s dedication to compassion becomes a transformational force in a divided period. Compassion towards oneself and others fosters healing, empathy, and tolerance. These ideas strike a chord as a solution to the interpersonal and societal tensions that define the contemporary environment.
- Being Aware in the Digital Age: We are constantly exposed to a deluge of information, diversions, and stimulation in the digital age. In this digital chaos, the mindfulness teachings of the Buddha provide a haven of calm. People can anchor themselves in the midst of turmoil by practicing mindfulness through meditation and present-moment awareness, which promotes mental clarity and emotional well-being.
- Against Materialism: Buddha’s teachings promote disengagement from worldly pursuits as a route to genuine contentment in a culture driven by consumerism. Realising the fleeting nature of worldly belongings, people can free themselves from the never-ending need for approval from others and discover enduring happiness in the simplicity of the now.
Prelims practice Question
Q1) Consider the following statement regarding Buddhism:
1) The concept of “Anatta” means “No Soul”
2) Sanskrit is the primary language used in the earliest Buddhist scriptures
3) Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to Enlightenment.
How many of the above statement is/are correct?
a) One
b) Two
c) Three
d) None
ANSWER: B
Mains practice questions
Q1) Why is the Pala period considered as the most important period in Indian Buddhism’s history?
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