In a resolution passed during its First General Assembly, the Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition (IHCNBT) has made a unanimous appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to confer the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, on the 14th Dalai Lama. The council recognized the Dalai Lama’s extraordinary contributions to preserving and promoting the cultural, religious, and philosophical heritage of the Indian Himalayan region.
The historic resolution was adopted at a special event in New Delhi, where the IHCNBT emphasized the enduring cultural and spiritual ties shared between the people of the Indian Himalayas and the Dalai Lama. The council highlighted the Dalai Lama’s lifelong commitment to advancing human values, fostering interfaith harmony, and his tireless efforts in preserving Tibetan culture and the environment. His work in revitalizing India’s ancient Nalanda Buddhist traditions was also celebrated.
The appeal for the Bharat Ratna comes at a time when the Dalai Lama’s influence continues to resonate worldwide. His recent book, Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People, released on March 10, 2025, reaffirms India’s pivotal role in shaping Tibetan Buddhism. In his book, the Dalai Lama calls India “the land of the noble ones” (Aryavarta), underscoring the significant impact the country has had on Tibetan spiritual and cultural traditions.
The resolution passed by the IHCNBT reflects the deep respect and admiration that the Indian Himalayan communities have for the Dalai Lama. The council praised his role in strengthening the historical ties between India and Tibet, as well as his advocacy for peace and non-violence on the global stage.
Alongside the Bharat Ratna appeal, the IHCNBT also passed two key resolutions concerning the future of the Dalai Lama institution. First, the council reaffirmed that the recognition of the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation is a sacred religious process, grounded in the ancient Nalanda Buddhist traditions. The council stressed that no government or political body has the authority to interfere in this process, with the Gaden Phodrang Institution being the sole authority responsible for recognizing the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation.
Additionally, the IHCNBT vehemently opposed any external influence or political interference in selecting the next Dalai Lama. The council made it clear that any attempt by a government or organization to impose a successor would be rejected by the Himalayan Buddhist communities.
