The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), New Delhi, is set to host the 3rd International Conference of Young Buddhist Scholars (ICYBS) on 22 August 2025 at the Nalanda Hall, Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, the event will run from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
This annual platform brings together emerging voices from the global Buddhist community to deliberate on contemporary challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities in upholding the Dhamma. The 2025 edition carries the theme “Wisdom Transmission in Buddha Dhamma in the 21st Century”, aiming to explore how Buddhist wisdom can be preserved, adapted, and shared in today’s interconnected world.
From Pilgrimage to Modern Discourse
The ICYBS has steadily evolved since its inception, addressing diverse dimensions of Buddhist thought and practice. In 2023, the conference delved into “Buddhist Pilgrimage”, highlighting the role of sacred sites in sustaining spiritual heritage. The 2024 edition focused on “Buddha Dhamma in Education, Research, Healthcare and Well-being”, underlining the relevance of Buddhist principles in modern public life.
This year’s theme shifts the lens towards the transmission of wisdom, examining how ancient teachings can be safeguarded amid technological shifts, cultural transformations, and global challenges.
Distinguished Guests and Speakers
The conference will be inaugurated in the presence of Chief Guest Prof. Rana Pratap Singh, Vice Chancellor of Gautam Buddha University, Uttar Pradesh. His academic leadership and engagement with Buddhist studies are expected to inspire participants.
The keynote address will be delivered by Prof. KTS Sarao, an eminent Buddhist historian known for his extensive research on the socio-political and doctrinal development of Buddhism. His address will set the tone for a day of scholarly exchange and youth-led dialogue.
India’s Role as ‘Dhamma Setu’
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has repeatedly underscored India’s role as “Dhamma Setu” — a spiritual bridge linking Buddhist-majority nations and the wider global community. Under his vision, India has undertaken several initiatives to preserve and promote Buddhist heritage, including the Global Buddhist Summit, the Asian Buddhist Summit, and the recognition of Pali as a classical language.
The Prime Minister’s articulation of “Dhamma-based harmony” aligns with the Panchamrit doctrine, which encompasses Samman (respect), Samvad (dialogue), Samriddhi (prosperity), Suraksha (security), and Sanskriti evam Sabhyata (culture and civilisation). This philosophy not only reflects India’s spiritual heritage but also its contemporary diplomatic outreach.
Empowering the Next Generation
The ICYBS serves as a vital platform for young scholars, monastics, and practitioners to share research, engage in intercultural dialogue, and collaborate on initiatives that can carry Buddhist wisdom into the future. By focusing on youth-led engagement, the IBC aims to ensure that the essence of the Dhamma remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come.
