Nourishing the Earth, Sustaining Lives, India's Rich Cultural Heritage and Time-Honored Traditions

India's contribution to the G20 agenda on promoting environmental responsibility.

To all the Himalayan nations across regions.

An invitation to Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal and other global countries, across worldwide.

Bhutan, recognized as the Himalayan Mountain Kingdom is a compact landlocked nation situated in the eastern Himalayas of South Asia. This beautiful country is nestled between India to the south, east and west while China lies to the north. Bhutan has gained global recognition for its breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse wildlife and extraordinary cultural legacy.

Bhutan's geography is dominated by the majestic Himalayan mountain range with peaks exceeding 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). The country is known for its picturesque valleys, deep gorges and dense forests. The highest peak, Gangkhar Puensum is the world's tallest unclimbed mountain.

Bhutan is renowned for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness which places the well-being and happiness of its people above mere economic growth. This unique approach aims to strike a balance between material and spiritual development with a focus on sustainable progress, cultural preservation and environmental conservation.

Deeply influenced by Buddhism, Bhutan embraces Vajrayana Buddhism as its predominant faith, practiced by the majority of its population. The landscape is adorned with monasteries, temples and dzongs, fortress-like structures that serve as significant religious and cultural hubs. Bhutanese culture thrives through vibrant festivals, traditional arts and crafts and a strong sense of community among its people.

Bhutan is committed to environmental preservation and is recognized as one of the world's ecological hotspots. More than 70% of the country's land area is covered by forests and the government has implemented strict conservation policies ensuring that at least 60% of the land remains under forest cover.

Bhutan has gained international attention for its measurement of national happiness through the Gross National Happiness Index. Despite its small size and relative isolation, Bhutan has managed to preserve its unique cultural identity and natural heritage while embracing modernization. The country's commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation and the well-being of its citizens make it a fascinating and inspiring destination for travelers and researchers alike.

The traditional culture of Bhutan is deeply rooted in its Buddhist heritage and the values of Gross National Happiness.

Bhutanese culture and its people are truly wonderful and amazing.

Buddhism holds a central position in Bhutanese culture with the majority of the population practicing Vajrayana Buddhism which is the country's official religion. Monasteries, temples and religious festivals are integral aspects of Bhutanese life and monks and nuns are highly respected members of society.

Festivals known as Tsechus are vibrant and significant cultural events in Bhutan. These religious festivals take place throughout the year in various districts and monasteries. They feature masked dances, music and religious performances that are believed to bring blessings and spiritual merit to both participants and spectators.

Dzongs the fortified monastic and administrative centers serve as the focal points in Bhutanese communities. These magnificent and impressive structures often adorned with intricate woodwork, encompass both religious and governmental functions. Dzongs also serve as venues for important religious ceremonies and cultural events.

Bhutanese national attire includes the Gho for men and the Kira for women. Men wear the Gho, a knee-length robe that is tied at the waist while women don the Kira, an ankle-length dress crafted from intricately woven fabric. The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha which belongs to the Tibetan-Burmese language family.

Bhutanese architecture and art reflect the country's cultural and religious values. Traditional buildings are constructed without nails and feature intricate designs, decorative paintings and ornate woodwork. Traditional Bhutanese art such as thangka paintings and wood carvings often depicts Buddhist themes and symbols.

Traditional medicine in Bhutan draws inspiration from Tibetan medicine and is known as Sowa Rigpa. Alongside modern medicine, the Bhutanese traditional medicine system uses medicinal plants, herbs and minerals to treat illnesses and promote well-being.

Respect, hospitality and communal harmony are highly valued in Bhutanese society. Greetings often involve bowing or nodding and elders and religious figures are accorded great reverence. Offering tea or food to guests is a customary gesture of hospitality.

Traditional Bhutanese music showcases unique instruments such as the dranyen (a traditional lute), dramyin (a small stringed instrument) and chiwang (a fiddle). Folk dances including the mask dances performed during festivals, exemplify the country's rich cultural heritage.

Bhutan has a rich tradition of oral storytelling and folklore with myths and legends passed down through generations. These stories often revolve around Buddhist teachings, local deities and historical events contributing to the cultural fabric of the country.

The Bhutanese people are known for their warmth, hospitality and strong sense of community. They take great pride in their unique cultural heritage and are committed to preserving their traditions while embracing modern developments.

Bhutan has a rich tradition of folklore and oral storytelling with numerous tales passed down through generations.

Here are a few popular folklore tales from Bhutan

The Legend of the Divine Madman (Drukpa Kunley): This tale revolves around the eccentric Buddhist saint, Drukpa Kunley known as the Divine Madman. He was known for his unorthodox methods of teaching Buddhism and using humor and sexual innuendos to challenge social norms. The tale recounts his exploits, adventures and teachings highlighting his unconventional approach to enlightenment.

The Story of Pema Lingpa: Pema Lingpa was a renowned 15th-century treasure revealer and spiritual figure in Bhutan. According to legend, he possessed the ability to retrieve hidden treasures from underwater and underground locations. The story tells of his encounters with supernatural beings, his trials and his contributions to Buddhism in Bhutan.

The Tale of the Four Harmonious Friends: This popular Bhutanese fable teaches the value of harmony, respect and cooperation. The tale follows the journey of a bird, a rabbit, a monkey and an elephant who work together to protect a tree, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among different species.

The Story of the Black-Necked Crane: The black-necked crane is a revered bird in Bhutanese culture believed to bring good luck and symbolize longevity and fidelity. The folklore surrounding this bird often tells the tale of a loyal crane couple and their journey to Bhutan, highlighting the importance of love, loyalty and environmental conservation.

The Tale of the Tashi Tagye: This story revolves around the Tashi Tagye, a mythical creature resembling a combination of different animals. It represents the harmony between predator and prey, symbolizing the coexistence of all living beings. The tale teaches the importance of balance and mutual respect in nature.

The Legend of Gyalsey and the Thunder Dragon: This folklore tale revolves around a young prince, Gyalsey who befriends a magical thunder dragon. Together, they embark on a quest to save the kingdom from an evil force. This tale emphasizes bravery, friendship and the enduring bond between Bhutan and its mythical protector- The Thunder Dragon.

Bhutan's cultural heritage with its rich tapestry of folklore holds immense value and deserves to be preserved and celebrated. It is heartening to send an invitation to Bhutan from India, a neighboring friend that recognizes the significance of conserving the Himalayas, the true biodiversity regenerator and the core of this majestic mountain ranges across, Bhutan along with Tibet and Nepal. Bhutan equally share a common responsibility with our Nation in ensuring the preservation and sustainability of this natural wonder.

As we face the challenges posed by climate change, it becomes crucial to adopt self-sufficiency practices and prioritize the conservation of our precious natural resources. By doing so, we not only safeguard the beauty of the Himalayas but also support the adaptability of future generations to the changing climate. Our collective efforts, driven by the principles of One Family for One Earth, aim to foster a harmonious, beautiful and sustainable One Future for all life on the planet. This vision can be achieved through the application of global wisdom, collaborative actions and a deep sense of responsibility. Together, we can work towards the preservation and well-being of our natural landscapes, ensuring that the Himalayas remain a thriving ecosystem and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

India's Proactive Stance: Promoting Sustainable Practices in Offering Cordyceps as a Responsible Choice

To ensure the long-term sustainability of Bhutan's natural beauty and promote the Gross National Happiness of its people, it is essential to implement measures to slow down the harvesting of Cordyceps Sinensis.

Cordyceps Sinensis, a valuable medicinal fungus found in the Himalayan regions starting from Bhutan covering all the way to Tibet, Nepal and our Indian Himalayan across. Cordyceps harvesting has become a significant economic activity but it must be carefully managed to avoid overexploitation and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Cordyceps sinensis, a unique and fascinating fungus plays a significant role in fostering biodiversity through the creation of intricate networks of interactions within ecosystems. This remarkable organism forms a symbiotic relationship with its host, typically a caterpillar or other insect larvae.

The life cycle of Cordyceps sinensis begins when its spores land on the host organism. The fungus then penetrates the body of the host and begins to consume its tissues. As the fungus grows, it manipulates the behavior of the host, directing it to climb to higher elevations or move to more advantageous locations within its habitat.

Once the host reaches a suitable spot, the fungus continues to grow eventually emerging from the host's body. At this stage, it forms a long, slender stalk often referred to as the "fruiting body." The fruiting body contains spores that are released into the surrounding environment, ready to infect new hosts and continue the life cycle.

This intricate relationship between Cordyceps sinensis and its host creates a web of interactions that profoundly impact biodiversity. As the fungus infects different insect species, it contributes to the balance of populations within ecosystems. By manipulating the behavior of its host, Cordyceps sinensis indirectly influences the distribution and movement of other organisms within the environment.

Furthermore, Cordyceps sinensis acts as a nutrient source for various organisms. In addition to insects, other organisms such as birds and small mammals may feed on the fruiting bodies or the infected insects, further expanding the web of interactions and facilitating energy transfer within the ecosystem.

The presence of Cordyceps sinensis in an ecosystem promotes biodiversity by influencing the behaviors and interactions of multiple species. Its unique life cycle and ability to manipulate its host contribute to the intricate balance of populations and the functioning of ecosystems. Through these fascinating mechanisms, Cordyceps sinensis creates a network of interactions that foster biodiversity and contribute to the overall health and vitality of the natural world.

By regulating the harvesting of Cordyceps sinensis, Bhutan can strike a balance between economic benefits and environmental conservation. The efforts must be undertaken with a deep reverence and respect for the almighty Himalayas which hold immense cultural, spiritual and ecological significance. India, Bhutan and other Himalayan countries must work together in a spirit of unity, embracing the principle of "one for all, all for one."

By collaborating and sharing knowledge, experiences and resources, we can collectively protect and preserve the majestic Himalayas for future generations. This unified approach will help ensure that the natural beauty, biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Himalayas continue to flourish, fostering happiness and prosperity for all.

India recognizes the importance of preserving the natural integrity of Cordyceps sinensis, a species highly valued for its medicinal and economic significance. To achieve this, India has implemented a comprehensive approach that involves the cultivation of Cordyceps Militaris in a sustainable and organic manner within controlled environments.

By offering Cordyceps militaris as an alternative, India aims to protect the wild populations of Cordyceps sinensis. Harvesting the natural Cordyceps sinensis is detrimental to its populations and disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems and is on the endangered list of IUCN.

Therefore, by cultivating Cordyceps militaris which shares many similar properties and benefits, India ensures the continued availability of this valuable resource while reducing the pressure on wild populations.

The cultivation of Cordyceps militaris is carried out in controlled environments, such as indoor facilities. These conditions allow for optimal growth and development while minimizing the impact on natural habitats. Through the use of sustainable practices including organic cultivation methods, India ensures that the production of Cordyceps militaris is environmentally friendly and free from harmful chemicals.

By promoting the responsible management of Cordyceps resources, India plays a vital role in safeguarding the natural state of this species for future generations. The sustainable cultivation of Cordyceps militaris helps to meet the increasing demand for these valuable fungi while reducing the need for unsustainable harvesting practices.

Furthermore, this approach fosters research and innovation in the field of cordyceps cultivation, opening up new opportunities for entrepreneurship and economic growth. By developing expertise in the sustainable production of Cordyceps militaris, India is already contributing to the growth of the cordyceps industry while ensuring the long-term conservation of Cordyceps sinensis valuable natural resource.

India's initiative to offer sustainably grown Cordyceps militaris as an alternative to Cordyceps sinensis demonstrates a commitment to preserving the natural integrity. Through organic cultivation in controlled environments, India promotes responsible management practices, reduces pressure on wild populations and creates new opportunities for economic growth and innovation and preparing for the upcoming challenges in malnutrition and healthcare.

Under the exceptional leadership of our esteemed Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi along with the unwavering strength and glory of our honorable President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu - 15th President of Republic of India , We stands united and determined. With heads held high, we march forward, embodying the essence of One Earth, One Future, One Family.

With a warm spirit of cooperation, we invite nations from around the world to join hands as we work towards a future that respects and safeguards our planet, cherishes our shared humanity and embraces the principles of learning among each other wisdom.

Our India, a land rich in ancient wisdom stands ready to infuse the G20 India with its profound insights and time-tested values. Drawing upon the diverse tapestry of her culture, India embraces the principles of inclusivity, harmony and shared prosperity. Indian culture and tradition recognizes that the world is an interconnected web of nations and our destinies are intertwined. By nurturing these deep-rooted connections, we can create a world where each nation thrives and every individual is given the opportunity to flourish and contribute in the manner that it will become a collaborative efforts of change with a sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystem for the global wisdom to flourish, LiFE.

Our India's G20 India presidency serves as a call to action to address the pressing challenges that confronting the world today. From climate change and sustainable development to global health and food security, the time has come for decisive and collaborative action as one unified family.

Let all of us answer this call with unwavering determination and a profound love for mother Earth who nurtures us all with her boundless grace as One Global Family.