Nishikant Dubey, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology (2024–25), called for conferring the Bharat Ratna on the Dalai Lama and confirmed the launch of a new Doordarshan program dedicated to Sikkim’s Bhutia and Lepcha communities.During his four-day visit to Guwahati, Siliguri, and Gangtok, Dubey addressed a range of issues tied to regional culture, national integration, and public broadcasting. Speaking to reporters, he said, “A dedicated program on Bhutia and Lepcha culture will soon be aired on Doordarshan, starting next month. This initiative will offer national visibility to the unique traditions, languages, and customs of these communities.”
Dubey praised Sikkim’s cultural richness and natural beauty, likening it to Switzerland and calling it “one of India’s finest treasures.” He emphasised the need for national broadcasters to embrace regional cultures in their programming to protect heritage and promote social harmony. “Inclusion of diverse Indian identities in national media platforms like Doordarshan is essential to maintaining unity in diversity,” he stated. Dubey also made a strong pitch for awarding the Bharat Ratna—India’s highest civilian honour—to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. “The Dalai Lama stands as a global symbol of peace, compassion, and non-violence. He has devoted his life to humanity, and it is time India recognises his extraordinary contributions,” he said.
Speaking on the broader theme of national unity, Dubey briefly addressed the ongoing language tensions in Maharashtra, urging communities and leaders to adopt mutual respect. “India’s strength lies in its linguistic diversity. Political and community leaders must act responsibly to ensure that language does not become a cause for division,” he added.