Numal Momin, the Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, visited Margherita Buddhist Vihar on April 3. His visit aimed to promote cultural tourism and explore ways to enhance the region’s potential as a spiritual and historical destination. He interacted with the monks and local authorities, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure to attract more visitors.
Momin appreciated the architectural beauty of the vihar and acknowledged its importance in preserving Buddhist heritage. He noted that Assam holds significant potential for religious tourism, especially in districts like Tinsukia, which have deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. He stressed that by improving accessibility and promoting the site, more tourists, researchers, and devotees could be encouraged to visit.
During his visit, he met with community leaders and temple caretakers, discussing the challenges faced by the vihar. The lack of proper roads, accommodation facilities, and promotional efforts were some of the key concerns raised. Momin assured them that the government would look into these issues and work on sustainable solutions to develop tourism without disturbing the spiritual sanctity of the place.
The Deputy Speaker also highlighted the government’s broader vision for tourism in Assam. He mentioned that the state has been focusing on improving connectivity, including better roads and railway links, to make travel easier for visitors. He urged local entrepreneurs and tourism stakeholders to collaborate in developing eco-friendly accommodations and cultural programs that would benefit both tourists and the local economy.
While addressing the media, Momin spoke about Assam’s rich Buddhist heritage and how it connects with other northeastern states and neighboring countries like Bhutan and Myanmar. He pointed out that Margherita Buddhist Vihar, along with other significant sites in the region, could be promoted as part of a larger Buddhist circuit, drawing international tourists who follow the religion.
Local residents and devotees welcomed Momin’s visit, expressing hope that his interest would bring attention to the long-neglected tourism potential of the area. They stressed that Buddhist heritage sites in Assam deserve the same recognition as those in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where tourism plays a major role in cultural preservation and economic development.
Momin also visited the surrounding areas of the vihar and suggested steps to maintain the cleanliness and upkeep of the premises. He encouraged local youth to actively participate in tourism-related initiatives, such as guided tours and handicraft sales, to create more employment opportunities. He assured that government schemes focused on tourism development would benefit such efforts.
His visit to Margherita Buddhist Vihar comes at a time when Assam is actively pushing for tourism development in various sectors. With a strong emphasis on cultural and spiritual tourism, the state government aims to promote lesser-known heritage sites. Momin reiterated that investment in tourism infrastructure would not only attract visitors but also boost local businesses and generate revenue.
As a part of his outreach, he urged Buddhist organizations and researchers to document the history of Margherita Buddhist Vihar and other similar sites. He emphasized the need for digital promotion through websites and social media to reach a global audience.
Momin concluded his visit by offering prayers at the vihar and expressing his gratitude to the monks for their hospitality. He assured them that their concerns had been noted and that he would take up the matter with relevant government departments. The visit reinforced the government’s commitment to preserving Assam’s diverse cultural landscape while creating new opportunities for tourism.
