Darjeeling, Dec. 13: At a time when tradition and culture are vanishing remnants of the past, the Tamangs have taken a step towards preserving the cultural identity of their community.

Community members from across the globe are expected to work out the modalities for the preservation of their culture, language and tradition at the Second International Tamang Conference to be held here from December 15 to 18.

?In 2002 we had come out with a Kathmandu Declaration. We will look into ways to implement the declaration during our conference. Community members from about 11 countries are expected to attend the meet,? said M.S. Bomzom, general secretary, All India Tamang Buddhist Association.

Tamangs are one of the many sub-communities of the Gorkhas, but recently they have started creating a space of their own and have denounced Hindu traditions like putting on vermilion or celebrating Dussehra and Diwali.

In the wake of these developments, the conference has gained significance, as efforts are being made to standardise the community?s tradition world-wide. ?In an effort to improve the socio-economic conditions of our community, we will discuss issues like the setting up of a Tamang Development Fund,? said Bomzom.

Sikim chief minister Pawan Chamling, state urban development minister Asok Bhattacharya and P.S. Golay, a minister from Sikkim, are expected to attend the meet.