New Delhi, April 10 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said Jainism has played an invaluable role in building India's identity, asserting that its values offer an answer to the global challenges of terrorism, war and environmental protection.

Addressing an event to mark the 'Navkar Mahamantra Divas', Modi said his government is committed to preserving the heritage and teachings of the ancient religion and noted that its influence, including idols of tirthankaras, is visible on Parliament's building.

Citing anekantavada, a core doctrine of Jainism that promotes non-absolutism and recognises that ultimate truth can be perceived differently, he said the world needs it a lot as it appreciates different perspectives.

He said, Jainis...