The preliminary UT-Level Coordination Committee meeting for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Tathagata Buddha, Ladakh 2026, was convened on March 5 under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary, Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, at the Conference Hall of the Hill Council in Leh.

The committee was constituted on the directions of the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh to ensure inclusive participation of all sections and sects of the Buddhist community in the region.

The meeting commenced with the lighting of the holy butter lamp, invoking blessings for the successful and auspicious conduct of the event. It was attended by senior officials, including administrative secretaries, DGP Ladakh, IGP ITBP, eminent Rinpoches, presidents of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and Ladakh Gompa Association (LGA), representatives of monasteries, the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Sowa Rigpa institutions, former political leaders, and other stakeholders.

Administrative Secretary for Tourism and Culture, Sanjeet Rodrigues, delivered a detailed presentation outlining the proposed framework for the preparation and execution of the exposition. It was unanimously decided that the opening ceremony will be held on May 1 at Jive-tsal in Choglamsar, coinciding with International Buddha Purnima.

The Chief Secretary informed that the sacred relics are expected to arrive in Leh on April 28 or 29. He said the Administration will request the Ministry of Culture to retain the relics in Ladakh for one month, with the culmination of the exposition on May 31, coinciding with Buddha Purnima as per the Tibetan lunar calendar, as suggested by committee members. He also emphasised the need to create a spiritually elevated atmosphere across Ladakh through seven days of rituals, prayers, and ceremonial activities prior to the arrival of the relics.

The committee unanimously adopted the theme “Peace in Times of Conflict.” The Chief Secretary emphasised that the exposition should serve as a global message of peace, compassion, and harmony from Ladakh.

It was also decided that special arrangements will be made for the delegation accompanying the relics, including a ceremonial reception at the airport. Responsibilities related to security, traffic management, facilities, and logistics will be jointly handled by the UT Administration, LBA, and LGA. A joint site visit to Jive-tsal will be conducted to review preparations.

Ashish Kundra informed that, to facilitate visitors, the Administration will develop a dedicated website featuring QR code–based information, visitor registration, and fast-track access for tourists at the venue. The event will also be promoted through social media platforms to ensure wider outreach and awareness. He stressed the need to hold meetings with tour operators, hotel associations, and taxi unions to ensure smooth travel arrangements.

As decided, documentary screenings, seminars, prayer sessions, and religious teachings will form part of the holistic programme. The Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre was requested to organise an Interfaith Harmony Dialogue in coordination with CIBS and other organisations, including participation from Kargil. A peace march by monks was also proposed.

The Chief Secretary informed that a massive cleanliness drive will be conducted from April 15 to 30 across Leh, involving the Army, ITBP, Ladakh Police, Municipal Committee, various associations, and the general public. Renovation and painting of stupas along the airport route to the venue will also be undertaken by LBA and LGA.

He further directed that phase-wise access will be organised for devotees, including elderly persons, tourists, and visitors from different regions. Dedicated bus services will be arranged for devotees from remote villages.

Invitations will be extended to ambassadors from Southeast and Central Asian countries, Chief Ministers of Buddhist-majority states such as Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, Nalanda University, organisations from Bodh Gaya, and other prominent Buddhist institutions.

The Chief Secretary highlighted that this rare opportunity to host the sacred relics is a historic occasion for Ladakh, taking place after nearly 70 years. He urged youth, merchants, tourism stakeholders, and the wider community to actively participate in making the exposition a grand success.

The meeting was followed by a press briefing by the Chief Secretary, who described the discussions as constructive and inclusive, with all stakeholders united in ensuring the successful organisation of this spiritually significant event.