All India Tamang Buddhist Association (AITBA) is a significant and longstanding organization that has been at the forefront of advocating for the Tamang Buddhist community in India. Officially established on January 24, 1981, the AITBA is registered under Registration Number S/31850, signifying its formal recognition and structured functioning within the legal framework of India.
Head Office and Location
The association’s head Office is strategically located at:
Old Super Market, Top Floor Room No. 8 & 9,
P.O. & District: Darjeeling,
West Bengal, India.
This central location in Darjeeling—an area with a significant Tamang population—serves as the operational hub of the organization’s diverse activities. From this base, the AITBA coordinates its outreach, programs, and community services across different parts of India.
Mission and Objectives
Since its inception, All India Tamang Buddhist Association has remained deeply committed to the upliftment, preservation, and promotion of the Tamang Buddhist identity—a community that is both ethnically distinct and religiously aligned with the Tibetan school of Buddhism.
Core Objectives:
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Cultural Preservation: Safeguarding the rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions of the Tamang people.
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Religious Promotion: Encouraging the practice and understanding of Buddhist teachings, rituals, and philosophy as practiced by the Tamang community.
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Educational Empowerment: Facilitating educational opportunities, awareness programs, and scholarships to uplift the socio-economic status of community members.
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Social Unity: Fostering solidarity and collective identity among Tamang Buddhists across India through festivals, community gatherings, and inter-regional collaboration.
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Advocacy and Representation: Acting as a representative body to voice the community’s concerns to government agencies and other institutions, particularly in areas such as social justice, minority rights, and scheduled tribe recognition.
Role in the Community
Over the past four decades, the AITBA has become a pillar of strength and unity for the Tamang Buddhist population, not just in Darjeeling but in various states like Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and even in the Northeastern and Himalayan regions where Tamang communities are found.
By organizing events such as Lochar (Tamang New Year), Buddha Purnima celebrations, language workshops, and community development seminars, the AITBA plays a pivotal role in nurturing identity, fostering pride, and encouraging social advancement.
Significance
AITBA’s continued commitment and contributions are not only important for the Tamang community but also enrich the multi-cultural and multi-religious fabric of Indian society. Through its efforts, the association upholds the principles of Buddhist compassion, wisdom, and peace, and ensures that the Tamang voice is heard in the national discourse on indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and social development.
Conclusion
With more than four decades of unwavering service, the All India Tamang Buddhist Association stands as a beacon of cultural resilience and community empowerment. As it moves forward, the organization continues to inspire future generations to embrace their heritage, pursue education, and build a stronger, united Tamang identity in the ever-evolving landscape of India.
PRESENT PORTFOLIO 2023-2026
President : Rajman Tamang
Working President : Bimal Kumar Zimba
General Secretary : Narendra Kumar Moktan
Assistant Secretary : Narendra Yonzon
Treasurer : Bahadur Tamang
Organising Secretary : US Tamang
Gumba Anudan Secretary : Dawa Tamang
Office Secretary : Sishir Moktan