HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Jan 28: India’s indigenous communities have often become the targets of conversion efforts by mainstream religions, said chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday.
He urged the younger generation to keep the indigenous beliefs and religions alive and shared the steps taken by his government on this issue.
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“Unfortunately indigenous communities in India often become the targets of conversion efforts by mainstream religions. Activities by many religious groups may result in a decline in the population of those practicing indigenous faiths,” he said while speaking at the inaugural session of the Eighth International Conference and Assembly of Elders in Dibrugarh.
He further said that the lure of material benefits, education and health care benefits offered by missionary organisations influence individuals to convert.
Sarma said that it is the responsibility and duty of the young generation to follow the indigenous beliefs and practices, adding, “It is necessary to preserve ancient knowledge.”
Referring to certain forces inimical to the culture and traditions of India which have been working to erode the cultural heritage of the country, Sarma said that the people of the country should create a deterrent to defeat such forces.
Stating that he is happy to share the dais with Sarsangchalak RSS Dr Mohan Bhagawat for the International Conference and Gathering of Elders, the chief minister said that the assembly of spiritual leaders from across the globe in the meet will help everyone to appreciate the belief system of the elders and strengthen the societal bond based on the values of elders.
“The current era is marked by a negative global impact on the indigenous traditions and faiths,” he added.
He said that in India, in addition to the major religions, several indigenous faiths flourished, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the nation.
“Indigenous faiths in India are not merely religious practices; they are repositories of wisdom. They underscore an intimate connection between communities and the natural world. Preserving these belief systems is about safeguarding diversity in religion. These indigenous belief systems are deeply rooted in the traditions, customs, and folklore of different communities,” he opined.
Considering the immense role the indigenous faith can play, Sarma also stated about steps of the state government in creating a department which exclusively deals with Indigenous Tribal Faith and Culture.
He expressed hope that the conference will help in reviving indigenous faith and culture and stop the cultural erosion taking place in the present day society.
“It will also help in connecting the present generation with the intrinsic values of the past. In a way it will help the present day people to revisit the country’s ancient past and its resourcefulness,” he added.
The chief minister said that he hoped that the conference will help the stakeholders to take the present day society to the shared vision and work on the roadmap for the collective peace and welfare.
He also expressed his gratitude to Sarsangchalak Mohan Bhagawat for his guidance and thanked President of International Centre for Cultural Studies Shashibala for having organised the 8th Triennial International Conference in Dibrugarh.
Sarsangchalak RSS Mohan Bhagawat also spoke on the occasion highlighting the enriching past of India and the need for collective approach on the part of the world leaders to take global peace to an unprecedented height.
President International Centre for Cultural Studies Shashibala, spiritual leader of Elders Lithuania Inija Teinkuene, spiritual leader of Guatemala Elizabeth Arajao, spiritual leader of Elders from America Jyoti, spiritual leader of Elders from Africa Edmond, spiritual leader of Idu Michmi Acha Mimi, managing director Shiksha Valley Pulin Chandra Gogoi along with other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
