Global Footprint: Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya - where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment - was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide. Year: 2002 (UNESCO recognition) Impact: • Attracted millions of international tourists and pilgrims annually, especially from East and Southeast Asia. • Boosted Bihar’s tourism sector, hotel industry, and infrastructure. • Led to international collaborations with countries like Japan, Thailand, and Sri Lanka for temple restoration and tourism projects.
Global Footprint: The ancient Nalanda University, once a renowned center of global learning (5th–12th century CE), was revived as an international university in 2010 with the support of countries including Japan, China, Singapore, and Australia. Year: 2010 (revival act passed); 2014 (academic session began) Impact: • Established Bihar as an international education hub. • Strengthened cultural and academic diplomacy with Asian nations. • Brought global funding and research collaborations.
Link : https://nalandauniv.edu.in
Global Footprint: Bihar regularly hosts the International Buddhist Conclave — a gathering of monks, scholars, and government delegates from over 30 countries to promote Buddhist heritage. Period: Biennially (notably 2012, 2016, 2018, 2023) Impact: • Enhanced global diplomatic relations through cultural soft power. • Boosted foreign tourist arrivals. • Strengthened the Buddhist Circuit development in Bihar.
Link : https://tourism.gov.in
Global Footprint: The Ganga River, which flows through Bihar, has attracted international attention and funding through the World Bank-supported Namami Gange Mission. Period: 2015 onwards Impact: • Improved water infrastructure, sanitation, and urban development along riverbanks. • Boosted eco-tourism and river transport infrastructure. • Strengthened global environmental partnerships.
Link : https://www.worldbank.org
Global Footprint: A large Bihari diaspora resides in countries like United Arab Emirates, Qatar, United States of America, and United Kingdom. Their remittances contribute significantly to the state’s economy. Period: Ongoing (notably since 1990s Gulf migration boom) Impact: • Increased household income and improved living standards. • Investment in education, housing, and local businesses. • Enhanced Bihar’s global cultural and economic ties.
Link : https://mea.gov.in
