Hyderabad, March 27: Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao received an international peace award in Hyderabad.
Krishna Rao said the message of compassion and non violence taught by Gautama Buddha remains vital in today’s conflict hit world. He also said Buddhist teachings offer solutions to modern global challenges.
Minister Krishna Rao spoke at the International Buddhist Peace Conference 2026 held at Haritha Plaza on Friday. He attended the event as the Chief Guest.
The International Interchange Development Association gave him the “Grand Prize for Contribution to World Peace.” The award recognised his work in promoting Buddhist heritage, cultural exchange, and global peace efforts.
Association President Moon Yong Jo presented the award. He praised the Minister for his humanitarian values and support for people facing hardship.
Meanwhile, Jupally Krishna Rao dedicated the award to Chief Minister A. Revanth Anumula. He said the honour reflects the State Government’s focus on peace, tolerance, and non violence.
The Minister also spoke about Telangana’s strong Buddhist legacy. He said the region has remained a major centre of Buddhist learning for centuries.
Krishna Rao recalled Acharya Nagarjuna’s work on Madhyamika philosophy and the idea of Shunyata along the Krishna River. He said this work made the region a global knowledge centre.
Jupally Krishna Rao stresses Buddhist tourism growth
Krishna Rao said sites like Phanigiri, Nelakondapalli, and Dhulikatta show the region’s rich civilisation. He said these places are not just archaeological sites but symbols of cultural heritage. He added that the government plans to develop these places further.
Jupally Krishna Rao also spoke about the 274 acre Buddha Vanam project near Nagarjuna Sagar. He said the government aims to protect important heritage sites such as Phanigiri, Nelakondapalli, Dhulikatta, and Kotilingala.
Jupally dded that the State plans to build a strong Buddhist tourism circuit with world class visitor facilities.
The Minister said Telangana aims to become a key destination on the global Buddhist tourism map. He expressed hope that the conference will open new paths for global peace.
Minister Jupally Krishna Rao said the event was organised under the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation.
The conference saw the presence of Sri Lanka’s Minister for Buddha Sasana Professor Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Vietnam representative Dr Thich Nhat Tu, Buddha Vanam Project Special Officer Mallepalli Lakshmaiah, Archaeology Department Director Arjun Rao, Conference Coordinator Shivanagi Reddy, and about 150 delegates from 22 countries.
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