Experts present the framework for the world’s first academy focused on conserving India’s neglected rural Buddhist heritage while empowering local communities through sustainable development.
New Delhi, 21 November 2025:
The Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development (ITRHD), established in 2010, held a pre-event press briefing at WWF-India, New Delhi, unveiling key details of the upcoming International Conference on Preservation of Rural Buddhist Heritage (PRBH). The conference is set to take place from 28–30 November 2025 at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. Its primary aim is to promote global collaboration and dialogue on protecting India’s vulnerable rural Buddhist heritage while integrating conservation efforts with sustainable rural growth.
During the briefing, ITRHD highlighted the core objectives of the PRBH conference, introduced the distinguished panel of international experts, and elaborated on the vision for the proposed Academy for Rural Heritage Conservation and Development Training at Nagarjunakonda, Andhra Pradesh. This academy will be the first institution of its kind globally, dedicated specifically to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable development of unprotected rural Buddhist sites. The initiative also emphasizes community engagement, ensuring that heritage preservation leads to improved livelihoods for local residents.
ITRHD Chairman Shri S.K. Misra, the guiding force behind the initiative, stated:
“Our mission goes beyond safeguarding the physical remains of Buddhist civilisation. We aim to rejuvenate the rural communities that have silently protected this heritage for generations. The proposed academy will become an international centre for research, training, and hands-on conservation practice, ensuring that heritage protection and development progress together.”
His Eminence Kyabje Tsenshab Serkong Rinpoche II, Spiritual Throne Holder of Tabo Monastery and a distinguished speaker for PRBH, expressed his appreciation through a video message. He praised ITRHD’s commitment to establishing a dedicated academy and bringing together global scholars, practitioners, and experts to strengthen efforts toward preserving Buddhist cultural and heritage sites.
Senior representatives from the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the School of Planning and Architecture, and Gautam Buddha University also addressed the media. They underscored the urgent need to protect India’s vast yet often overlooked rural Buddhist heritage and emphasized the importance of integrating heritage conservation with inclusive and sustainable rural development.
