Former Buddhavanam Special Officer Mallepalli Laxmaiah honoured

In recognition of his services in the development of the 273-acre Buddhist heritage site in Telangana, and contributions to tourism development

HYDERABAD: Former Special Officer of Buddhavanam Mallepalli Laxmaiah was honoured at the International Buddhist Conclave 2025, held on February 24 and 25 at the Dr. Ambedkar International Convention Centre in Nagpur.

He was felicitated in recognition of his services in the development of Buddhavanam, a 273-acre Buddhist heritage site near Nagarjuna Sagar in Telangana.

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He was also honoured for his contributions to Buddhist heritage and tourism development. The award was presented by Bhante Mokkhachara (Indonesia) and Aman Kamble.

The two-day conclave was organised by the Nagpur Buddhist Association, which is focused on Buddhist tourism, culture, art, and literature. Prominent speakers, including Bhikkhuni Ayya Cittā (Australia), Bhikkhuni Shakyā Dhammadinā, and IRS Anil Ramteke shared insights on Buddhist teachings and career development.

Speaking on the occasion, Laxmaiah stressed on the need for Government of India to establish a National Buddhist Heritage Forum to protect and promote Buddhist sites across the country. He also urged the people of Nagpur, the city of Deekshabhoomi, to exert pressure on the government. He reminded them that Dr BR Ambedkar’s historic Dhamma Deeksha had taken place in the city, where over 5 lakh people embraced Buddhism.The organizers also honored individuals with ‘Constitution Mitra’ and ‘Dhammadoot’ awards for their contributions to Buddhist activism and constitutional values.