Contact December 2012

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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།Volume: XIV Issue: 12

31 December 2012

Human Rights in Tibet:the World Responds

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Continued on page 4

TibetanSelf-Immolations

Rises to 95

Continued on page 20

We are saddened to report the follow-ing self-immolations that took place in the month of December.

9 Dec: Bhenchen Kyi, 17, set herself on fire in Dokarmo region of Tsekhog, Rebkong. She passed away at the site of her protest. Days before, she had reportedly told her schoolmates that she would self-immolate in the no-madic area so that her parents would be able to look after her dead body. Thousands gathered for her funeral. She is survived by her parents, Sonam Tsering and Sermo, and her two sib-lings.

8 Dec: Pema Dorjee, 23, set himself on fire in front of the main as-sembly hall of the Shitsang Monastery in Luchu region. He succumbed to his injuries at the protest

site. He was a native of Chokhor vil-lage in Shitsang region. His village is located at around a distance of 30kms from the Shitsang Monastery.

8 Dec: Kunchok Phelgye, 24 and a monk, set himself on fire in front of the main as-sembly hall of the Taktsang Lhamo Kirti Monastery. He

by Jacob BlairOn 10 December, Tibetan Solidarity

Day was marked across the world with demonstrations and rallies in support of Tibetan independence. The Day comes after a period of heightened unrest in Tibet, characterized by a wave of self-immolations protesting Chinese policies.

Over the last three years 95 Tibetan monastic and lay people have set themselves on fire in an effort to bring a t t e n t i o n to Chinese Human Rights v i o l a t i o n s . Thirty-three of them occurred in November and December of this year.

On Sunday 9 December, thousands of Tibetans and their supporters rallied in New York at Daj Hammerskjold plaza outside the United Nations and in front of the Chinese embassy. A Tibetan delegation, led by exile Tibetan MPs Mr Norbu Tsering and Mr Tashi Namgyal, delivered a petition to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights signed by some 351,000 people from more than 90 countries demanding that the UN fulfill the resolutions passed in 1959, 1960, and 1965, send a fact finding mission to Tibet, and ensure that the “basic aspirations of the Tibetan people are fulfilled.” The

demonstrations in New York were accompanied by rallies across the globe.

In Europe, crowds gathered in Brussels in front of the European High Commission, as well as in Amsterdam and Barcelona. A small vigil was held in Moscow, while across India

Tibetans and their supporters held vigils and marches.

The impact of the self-immolations has reached beyond the Tibetan community, as policymakers in the European Union and United States have reacted to the issue over the past few weeks.

Catherine Ashton, the EU High Representative, issued a statement calling for the Chinese “to address the deep-rooted causes of the frustration of the Tibetan people” while also calling on Tibetans to “refrain from resorting to extreme forms of protest, such as self-immolation.”

Members of the European Parliament have also called for the

Protesters in New York on December 10th

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ContaCt magazIne 2 DeCemBeR 2012

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Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture, Dharamsala—the home of

news & issues

Continued from page 1Human Rights in Tibet – the World Responds

creation of a Special EU Representative on Tibet, in order to ensure the issue is monitored closely.

The United Kingdom issued a statement calling for the “resumption of meaningful dialogue to resolve the underlying grievances of Tibetan communities.”

The United States echoed the EUs statement, urging “the Chinese Gov-ernment at all levels to address poli-cies in Tibetan areas that have created tensions and threaten the distinct reli-gious, cultural, and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people.” The United States under President Obama’s lead-ership has publically announced a

“pivot” to Asia, and seeks to promote co-operation among its allies in the region. It has called the EU declaration a good ex-ample of the United States and Europe working together to “build new relation-ships in Asia.”

Undersecretary of State Maria Otero, who is also the US State Department’s Special Coordinator for Tibet-an Issues, emphasized

the US’s continuing c o m m i t -ment to Ti-betan Hu-man Rights, stating “The United States government has consistent-ly urged the Chinese gov-ernment to address policies in Tibetan areas that have created tensions.”

While the recent rise in self-immolations has spurred renewed interest

and a flurry of international commen-tary, it is important to note that the US and EU declarations do not represent a change in their respective stated positions on the issue. In 2008 in re-sponse to riots in Lhasa the US senate passed a resolution calling for earnest negotiations and emphasizing the im-portance of Human Rights.

Mr Tenzin S Kayta, of Tibet Bureau; Ven. Thubten Wangchen, Member of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; Mrs Laura Dupuy

Lasserre, President of the UN Human Rights Council; and Mr Tseten Samdup Chhoekyapa, H.H. the Dalai Lama’s

Representative - in Geneva on 10 December

French Senator Jean-Francios Humbert addressing the rally in Paris, France, on 10 December

The Flame of Truth campaign, which began on 6 July and spanned the globe seeking support for Tibet, concluded on 10 December with the submission of more than 351,000 signatures to UN Headquarters in New York, UN Human Rights Council, the UN High Commissioner

for Human Rights in Geneva, and UN Information Centre in New Delhi.

According to the Tibetan Parliament, “During this five-month-long campaign, we have collected over 321,000 signatures, including that of Chief Minister, Members of Parliament, Speakers and Members of Legislative Assembly, Mayors, educationists, journalists, social workers, activists, students and the general public. We have also received over 30,000 signatures through our online campaign. These combined signatures, numbering over 351,000 collected from over ninety countries are compiled in one hundred and seventeen books.”

The campaign calls on the UN to discuss the issue of Tibet based on its earlier resolutions, to send an independent international fact-finding delegation to Tibet, and to take special responsibility to ensure that the basic aspirations of the Tibetans inside Tibet are fulfilled.

Flame of Truth Campaign Concludes

Books filled with signaturesFlame of Truth rally ends in Delhi


news & issues

Issued statement from Maria Ot-ero, US Special Co-ordinator for Tibetan Issues on 6 December:

Expressing deep concern over the increasing number of self-immolations by Tibetans, the US today asked China to initiate unconditional talks with the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

“We call on the Chinese government to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives without preconditions,” Special US Coordinator for Tibetan Issues Maria Otero said in a statement.

Otero said the United States is deeply concerned and saddened by the continuing violence in Tibetan areas of China and the increasing frequency of self-immolations by Tibetans.

“Chinese authorities have responded to these tragic incidents with measures that tighten already strict controls on freedoms of religion, expression, assembly and association of Tibetans. Official rhetoric that denigrates the Tibetan language, the Dalai Lama, and those who have self-immolated has further exacerbated

tensions,” she said.Noting that senior US officials have

directly raised the issue of Tibetan self-immolations with their Chinese government counterparts, Otero said the US Government has consistently urged the Chinese government to address policies in Tibetan areas that

have created tensions.“These policies include

increasingly severe government controls on Tibetan Buddhist religious practice and monastic institutions; education practices that undermine the preservation of Tibetan language; intensive surveillance, arbitrary detentions and disappearances of Tibetans, including youth and Tibetan intellectual and cultural leaders;

Human Rights in Tibet – the World RespondsWhat the Politicians are Saying

escalating restrictions on news, media and communications; and the use of force against Tibetans seeking peacefully to exercise their universal human rights,” she said.

“We call on the Chinese government to permit Tibetans to express their grievances freely, publicly, peacefully, and without fear of retribution. We hope that the tragic acts of self-immolation end. We call on China’s leaders to allow journalists, diplomats and other observers unrestricted access to China’s Tibetan areas.”

The strong American statement comes days after relatives of three Tibetans, who recently self-immolated in Tibet protesting against the Chinese oppression, met Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Michael Posner.

“He (Posner) expressed our deepest condolences and our grave concern for the spiraling violence and harsh crackdown in Tibetan areas as well as, you know, grief with regard to the self-immolations,” State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters.

“We strongly sup-port the resump-tion of meaningful dialogue to resolve the underlying grievances of Ti-betan communi-ties. I also urge the Chinese govern-

ment to ensure unrestricted access to the Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas of China for dip-lomats, international media and other concerned parties. We believe a long term solution is best achieved through respect for universal principles of hu-man rights and genuine autonomy for Tibet within the framework of the Chi-nese constitution.”

Hugo Swire British Foreign Office Minister

“I am concerned about the escalat-ing number of self-immolations ...and the increasingly punitive measures being taken in re-sponse which fur-ther exacerbate

tensions in the region. Canada sup-ports Tibetans’ freedoms of expres-sion, assembly and association…and encourages China to give full consid-eration to the traditions and culture of the Tibetan population in a manner that will help ease tensions. We call on China to lift restrictions on access to the affected areas for the diplomats, media and other observers.”

John Baird Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister

Maria Otero, US Special Co-ordinator for Tibetan Issues

Tibet “has never been permitted to participate in a free and fair elec-tion of the sort that have taken place among Ti-betans in exile. In fact, this is a com-

munity governed by authorities who have deemed that carrying a copy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights or a photograph of His Holi-ness the Dalai Lama to be illegal and punishable acts. It is a community that has faced brutal repression and violence and that has, for decades, been denied their fundamental rights, including the freedoms of expression, assembly, and association.”

US Senator Joseph Lieberman


news & issues

Families of Self-Immolators Accused of Inciting Murder by Lerie Miller

A recently issued law by China’s Supreme Court states that any case of “inciting” self-immolations will be charged as intentional homicide. According to the Chinese Gannan Daily, “The legal opinion clearly points out that those criminals behind the scenes who plan, incite, aide, abet...and help those perpetrating self immolations will be investigated for criminal liability in the crime of intentional murder.” Inciting includes: displaying portraits of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, especially during the funerals of self-immolators; offering condolences to their family members; spreading any “rumors and provocative talks” about self-immolations, including any information, pictures and videos concerning self-immolation acts.

China views the escalation of self-immolation protests as an attack on the social fabric and unity of their nation by outside forces. Authorities have responded to this threat with increasingly strict measures of restrictions, punishments, and threats. According to the global rights group Human Rights Watch, “Since late October, officials have responded to immolations by punishing the families and communities of protestors, characterising immolations as criminal offenses, arresting those associated with immolators, and by deploying paramilitary forces and restricting communications and travel in areas where immolations have occurred.”

Dozens of Tibetans have recently been sentenced to lengthy jails terms, including life imprisonment, in connection with the ongoing wave of fiery protests. Many more have been arbitrarily arrested, some of whom have “disappeared,” their location and well being unknown.

One such recent arrest occurred in Rongwo town of Malho where Chinese authorities arrested a Tibetan for attempting self-immolation and another for instigating the protest. Authorities claim that the “instigator”

had escaped to India in 2005 and been affiliated with the Tibetan Youth Congress before returning in 2011, proving that exile Tibetans are at the cause of the protests.

Earlier in the month on 12 December, in Dokarmo region (where there have been four self-immolations), local Chinese officials arrested five Tibetans following the self-immolation death of Bhenchen Kyi. Those arrested included: Tsundue, a monk at Dorjee Dzong Monastery; Chagthar, a tantric practitioner; Shawo, head of a local religious center; Choedron, a nun in charge of discipline at a local nunnery; and nun Rigshe, sister of self-immolator Sangay Dolma. It is

assumed the reason for these arrests was their connection with the self-immolators. Their whereabouts and well being are unknown.

Two other arrests were made in the same region. Gobhey was arrested for having “acquaintance” with the self-immolator Sangdag Tsering. Kelsang Dorjee was arrested for having been seen with the self-immolator Tamding Dorjee the day before his protest.

On 3 December after the self-immolation of Sungdue Kyab, five monks were detained from the Bora Monastery in Sangchu region of

Kanlho. Identified as Gedun Gyatso, Lobsang Phagpa, Jamyang Soepa, Jamyang Lodoe, and Jamyang Gyatso, they have since disappeared and their whereabouts and well being are unknown. A day later, Chinese security officers again raided the monastery arresting 40 monks who were later released following a protest.

In the region of Rebgong (which saw 10 self-immolations in the month of November), arbitrary arrests, increased surveillance, and restrictions continue to be inflicted by local Chinese authorities. At the beginning of the month four Tibetans were detained for storing images of His Holiness in their mobile phones. Tamding Gyal, Dhundup, Chakdha Gyal, and Yarkho were arrested during a routine search following the series of self-immolations in the region. Chinese authorities were inspecting electronic devices in attempting to contain the spread of information.

In November, two Tibetan monks, Tsundue Choeden and Kunchok Sonam, of Rongwo Monastery, were arrested for reportedly being friends with Tibetan self-immolator Kalsang Jinpa. The current condition and whereabouts of the arrested monks remain unknown.

Beyond detainments and arrests, authorities have also offered large cash rewards to those who “expose crimes” relating to self-immolations in the region of Malho which includes the areas of Rebkong, Tsekhog, and Chentsa. This region has witnessed an astounding 44 self-immolations since October. The cash awards, ranging from 1,000 Yuan (US $160) to 200,000 Yuan (US $32,000), are offered for information exposing self-immolators, those inciting self-immolations, those who have visited families of self-immolators to offer condolences, or those who avert self-immolations from occurring.

In another notice, posted in Malho region in the month of November, stern orders were given to local

Chinese notice of cash awards for information regarding self-immolations

Continued on page 7


news & issues

New Report on Children’s Rights Violations in Tibetby Sarah Thorne

“I was grazing yaks on the pasture. We heard something hissing over our head. It was the sound of bullets. We saw the Chinese army on the hill, on the roadside and they were everywhere…. We heard the cracking of gun shooting and artillery some times. That day I thought I would get killed.”

15 year old Lithang County, 2009

A new report on the rights of children in Tibet has revealed that Tibetan children are “victims of arbitrary arrest, imprisonment, and torture for their political and religious beliefs, and face punishment because of the activities or beliefs of their family members.”

The 29-page report, Growing up under China’s occupation: The plight of Tibet’s Children, released by Free Tibet and Tibet Watch, was submitted to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child on 10 December to mark Human Rights Day.

The report details multiple cases of Tibetan children’s rights abuse and shows that children involved in non-violent protests have been subject to violence, and in some cases use of lethal force by Chinese authorities. It further documents China’s “frequent, systematic and severe violations” of its commitments under international law. This is despite the fact that China is a signatory to the International Convention on the Rights of the Child and the UN’s Committee on the Rights of the Child.

The report also shows that children’s

rights are violated by China’s use of education as a tool to implement their One-China policy and inculcate loyalty to the Chinese state, and to denigrate Tibetan cultural identity and values, including compulsory “patriotic re-education” campaigns. Restrictions on Tibetan language as the language of instruction in schools deny children the right to enjoy their own culture and language, and has a detrimental effect on Tibetan children’s ability to flourish in their education.

The report comes at a time when Tibetan children are increasingly involving themselves in the struggle for freedom with their growing participation in the ongoing wave of self-immolation protests. Bhenchen Kyi, a 17-year-old schoolgirl became the latest Tibetan to self-immolate when she set herself on fire in Tsekhog on 9 December. The report notes that over two-thirds of the 95 Tibetans who have self-immolated since 2009 demanding freedom and the return of the His Holiness the Dalai Lama are younger than 25 and have only ever known life under Chinese rule.

“A number of children, Tibetans under 18 years of age, have set

themselves on fire in protest, some of whom have been confirmed dead,” the report says. “These acts of self-immolation are driven by the lack of recourse to freedom of expression, political or legal redress and must be seen as evidence that China’s policies are not only failing Tibet’s children and young people but China’s policies in Tibet are directly causing serious violations of the Convention.”

The report makes a number of proposals and recommendations to the Chinese government to address children’s right violations in Tibet, including to “immediately and unconditionally release Tibetan children imprisoned for exercising their basic civil and political rights”. It also calls on China to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross “full and unrestricted access” to places of detention and “immediately abolish” patriotic re-education campaigns and prohibit the use of re-education through labour for child detainees.

Releasing the report, Free Tibet and Tibet Watch Director Stephanie Bridgen said, “normal life and normal childhood doesn’t exist in militarily occupied Tibet. The children of Tibet face all the challenges of life under occupation, and in many cases are full participants in the struggle to resist it. That means they are also victims of the systematic and ever-present abuse of human rights in Tibet. On Human Rights Day, we hope we have been able to shine a light on victims whose suffering and struggle is rarely seen.”

Families of Self-Immolators Accused of Inciting Murder protests had taken place. Monasteries that are found to have organized prayer ceremonies for self-immolators would be purged and closed down.

These examples of arrests, restric-tions, and threats, illustrate the in-creasing crackdown on communities that have witnessed self-immolations. While the exile Tibetan administra-tion has maintained that the reasons

for the self-immolations are self-ev-ident: political repression, economic marginalisation, environmental de-struction, and cultural assimilation, the response by China has been to repeatedly hardened its stance against self-immolators, announcing ever more stricter measures which now in-clude the charge of murder for anyone caught “inciting” self-immolations.

officials “to punish self-immolators and their families; even those who had offered condolences and prayers to the bereaved family members and relatives.” Further the notice announced the cancellation of government aid to families of self-immolators as well as development projects in villages where similar

Continued from page 6


news & issues

China Experts Gather for Conference in Dharamsala

China Imposes More Restrictions on Internet Use

China Intensifies its Propaganda Campaign In response to recent protests

in Tibet, China has intensified its propaganda campaign against self-immolations with the release of a documentary which claims to “disclose the truth” about the protests. Titled “Facts About Self-Immolation in Tibetan Areas of Ngapa (Aba),” the film was broadcast on CCTV-4, an international channel targeting Chinese language overseas viewers on 24 December followed by airings on CCTV’s English, Spanish, French,

Arabic, and Russian channels the following day.

Containing interviews with the “masterminds” and “victims” of the self-immolations, the film alleges that self-immolators were “acting on orders sent from overseas,” referring to the ongoing accusation that the “Dalai clique” is behind this social unrest in an attempt to split China.

In addition to this film, China’s state run newspapers have recently devoted an increasing number of

editorials, reports, and opinion pieces by supposed Tibetan scholars, all aimed at reinforcing Beijing’s official line of blaming the Tibet crisis on exile Tibetans.

China continues to cut off Tibet from the rest of the world, restricting access to diplomats and the media. In fact, China’s foreign ministry has vehemently refuted all claims by world leaders to address the Tibetan situation as a “gross intervention in China’s internal affairs.”

China has been using such tactics as blocking cell and internet service in areas of conflict as a means to control the spread of information. Now China is instituting ever tighter internet controls. Web users will now be required to register their names, curtailing any anonymous chatting or blogging.

According to the new regulation, this measure will “ensure internet

information security, safeguard the lawful rights and interests of citizens, legal entities or other organisations, and safeguard national security and social public interests.”

China’s leadership promotes the use of the internet for business and educational purposes, but bans material deemed subversive or obscene. Access to many websites is blocked.

While the government claims to be cracking down on corruption, this new regulation will only hinder the free and anonymous reporting which has recently revealed a series of scandals among lower-level officials. One such example being a local party official in south-west China who was sacked after a videotape of him having sex with a young woman was spread on the internet.

by Stacey GarretsonExperts on China from around the

world have just concluded a 3-day conference on Leadership Transition in China: Implications for the Chinese, Tibetans and Others. Organised by the Tibet Policy Institute, the conference took place from 28 to 30 December in Dharamsala.

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay opened the conference by welcoming the world’s experts on China saying, “The recent change in the Chinese leadership will have global implications, regional as well as on India and the Tibetan people. And your much sought after expertise will help us prepare and think through as to how we should move forward in the comings months and years.”

Kalon Dicki Chhoyang of the Department of Information and International Relations spoke about the Tibet Policy Institute, a new initiative

by the administration to conduct research and advise on policy. “The Tibet Policy Institute was initiated because we had a strong need for a think-tank. We want this institute to reach international standards in terms of intellectual vigor and objectivity.

What we don’t want is an equivalent of Chinese propaganda machinery on the Tibetan side,” she said.

Speakers at the conference included Dr Gordon Chang, noted lawyer and author of The Coming

Collapse of China; Prof Micheal van Walt van Praag, visiting professor at Princeton and the author of Status of Tibet: History, Rights and Prospects in International Law; Prof Chong-Pin Lin, former deputy defense minister of Taiwan and professor at Tamkang University in Taiwan.

Other noted speakers included Prof Madhu Bhalla of Department of East Asian Studies, Delhi University; Dr Abanti Bhattacharya, Department of East Asian Studies of University of Delhi; former special envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Kasur Lodi Gyari; His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Representative in Taiwan Mr Dawa Tsering; His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Secretary Mr Tsegyam; and writer Zhu Rui who was born in China, worked in Tibet, and now lives in Canada and writes extensively on the issue of Tibet in various Chinese language journals and websites.

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and Kalon Dicki Chhoyang


Lha’s Annual Report 2012news & issues

Lha Charitable Trust has concluded another successful year thanks to our many generous supporters!

Lha’s primary goal is to provide meaningful, multi-leveled social services in Dharamsala to help ease the transition for the Tibetan refugee community. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 150 people, hosts between 15 to 25 volunteers, and provides approximately 20 various services which include language education, computer courses, vocational training, health and environmental education, a Community Soup Kitchen, clean water, medicine, clothing distribution, and a public Library. Lha’s services are open to Tibetan refugees as well as the local Indian population and people from the Himalayan regions. We also provide cultural exchanges for international groups and free coordination for volunteers from around the globe.

Lha works hard to operate with minimum administrative and program costs to produce the maximum output. Your donations help us to improve and increase our services and projects. One of the many projects that donations in 2012 contributed to was the installation of three brand new water filtration systems in three schools serving around 600 hundred people who are now using pure clean water for both their drinking and cooking needs. In addition, donations helped support Lha’s Soup Kitchen to bring healthy food to those in need, serving 40-50 financially disadvantaged people daily and 105 needy people since it's inception. Another program of 2012 was the clear vision project which provided free eye exams to 105 people and free glasses to 80 people, and refunded the cost of eye medicines for 37 people.

We also organized nine cultural exchange groups from international institutions with over 112 students participating in this program.

Lha began this year having a social service booth at His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching. At the booth

we distributed information on our social service, environmental issues and Tibetan issues. In addition we stored, for a small fee, items that can not be taken into the temple such as cell phones and cameras.

Lha is proud to announce that it took over management of Contact Magazine starting in May, 2012! Recognized by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a very popular, free publication for Tibetan issues and community information in Dharamsala for over 14 years. It is one of the longest-running Tibetan publications in the area, and provides local residents, as well as international visitors with useful information.

The donations from volunteers and exchange groups staying in Lha’s accommodations have allowed Lha to become more self-sufficient and sustainable – our language, computer classes and other social services are now able to continue to be provided regardless of outside funding! However, to keep up with the growing needs of the community and to maintain the operation of our other social services and special projects such as the soup kitchen, eye, dental & health care, clean water and environmental initiatives, we continue to rely on your generous donations.

Since Lha's founding in 1997, we have continued to be inspired by the compassion, dedication, and contributions of generous supporters and thousands volunteers from around the globe.

With your generous support, we hope to continue providing these invaluable services to the local community and engage in many new initiatives in the coming year.

The following are some quick facts about Lha's successes during 2012. Thank you once again for your continued support, as we could not have achieved these things without you, the volunteers, and of course the dedication of the students and the community.

Important Initiatives in 2012

2476 students attended language • classes 699 new students enrolled in • language classes322 students attended beginner • and intermediate level computer classesDistributed over 2300 free ar-• ticles of clothing to the Tibetan and Indian communitiesLha’s community soup kitchen • provided clean, filtered water and nutritious meals to 40-50 finan-cially disadvantaged people dailyProvided to Tibetan refugees free • eye exams to 108 people and free glasses to 80 peopleOrganized a mass clean-up • program in McLeod Ganj with Tibetan Settlement OfficeProvided recommendation letters • to 176 students, a requirement of the Indian Government proving that newly arrived refugees have registered as relocating to India for educational opportunitiesWorked with 546 new volunteers • who donated their valuable time and energy120 international visitors enrolled • in Tibetan Cooking, Tibetan Art and Tibetan Language classesOrganized 9 Cultural Exchange • Programs with university and high school groups from the USA and Mexico (112 student partici-pants)Offered a free acupuncture • treatment event with American acupuncturist Amelia De MahyPublished and distributed 5200 • free copies of Contact Magazine since May 2012 when Lha took over Contact Magazine ower-ship (700-1000 copies published every month)Installed three brand new water • filtration systems in three schools serving around 600 people.

Continued on page 16


Tibetan Headlinesnews & issues

expression and their courage in the face of persecution.” Their names have not been revealed due to dangers of further persecution. The annual awards are given to writers who have been targets of political persecution or human rights abuses and who remain in financial need.

21 Dec: CBC Reporter Undercover A Canadian Broadcasting Company correspondent travelled undercover into Tibet where she spoke to people in a monastery where self-immolation had occurred. They told her that the protests against the Chinese administration in Tibet will continue, and people are willing to sacrifice their lives to do it.

19 Dec: Aid Programs Inefficient Central government programs aimed at promoting economic development in the Tibet Autonomous Region have been disappointing, according to Jin Wei at the Central Party School of the Communist Party of China. He said the region continues to rely heavily on cash donations and has failed to create a foundation for sustainable growth.

16 Dec: Thai Buddhists Talks A group of Thai elders, monks and scholars met for an inter-Buddhist dialogue with H.H. the Dalai Lama in Delhi to strengthen faith in the Dharma and reinforce relations between Thais and Tibetans. Nearly 300 lay Buddhists from Thailand listened to their deliberations.

15 Dec: “Mother of Tibet” The University of San Francisco presented an honorary doctorate to Jetsun Pema, humanitarian and former president of TCV. USF President

30 Dec: Solidarity MarchAround 108 Tibetan students

from the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) School ended their peaceful 80 kilometre march from Bir to Dharamsala via Palampur on Saturday. The students, aged between 10-15 years, had decided to hold a two-day long peaceful march in memory of the 95 Tibetans who had self-immolated themselves in Tibet.

27 Dec: Golden JubileeH. H. the Dalai Lama and Sikyong

Dr Lobsang Sangay graced the golden jubilee celebrations of Samyeling Tibetan Settlement (Majnuka Tilla) in New Delhi. “The Tibetan leadership as well as the Tibetan movement are both products of India. Tibetan children educated by Indian teachers are now providing leadership to the Tibetan cause. And the Tibetan movement is also based on Indian ethos such as Gandhi ji’s ahimsa or non-violent principles. Therefore, Tibetan people’s success is India’s success as well” said the Sikyong.

25 Dec: Russians in Delhi H.H. the Dalai Lama was warmly greeted at the start of his 4 day teaching in New Delhi by an audience of nearly 1500 people, more than a thousand of whom were Russian. A group of the students plan to send Russian President Vladmir Putin an open letter appealing for His Holiness to visit to their country.

24 Dec: Writers Honoured Four Tibetans are among 41 writers from 19 countries honoured by New York-based Human Rights Watch for their “commitment to free

Stephen Privett said, “Jetsun Pema has worked for the plight of Tibetan refugee children for more than 40 years. The USF is proud to honour her life’s work and dedication to promoting peace.”

5 Dec: Imprisoned Writer Dolma Kyab, a Tibetan writer serving a 10 ½ year prison sentence for ideas he expressed in his unpublished manuscript has been awarded the “Liu Xiaobo Courage to Write Award 2012” by the Independent Chinese PEN Centre which recognises and supports writers who resist repression of the basic human right to freedom of expression, and who stand up to attacks made against their right to impart information.

4 Dec: World Climate Summit Tenzin Norbu, from the Centre of Tibetan Administration, and Tenzin Chodon from the Tibetan Women’s Association, arrived in Doha, Qatar for the World Climate Summit where they will lobby and raise awareness about water issues. The Tibetan Plateau is regarded as the water tower of Asia. Climate change and Chinese building plans will impact on this vast area as well as the billions of people that live downstream.

2 Dec: World AIDS Day In Dharamsala, CHOICE—HIV/AIDS Initiative, the lone Tibetan NGO dedicated towards AIDS awareness and support for HIV patients, held a day-long awareness program with the theme “Getting zero: Zero new infection, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS related deaths.”

Dolma Kyab

HH and Sikyong at Majnuka Tilla

Pema Jetsun


International Headlinesnews & issues

20 Dec: US Gun Control US President Barack Obama has called for “concrete proposals” on gun control. The president said a “majority of Americans” back such changes. There have been calls for gun law reform after 26 children and teachers died in a mass shooting at a school in Newtown, Connecticut.

19 Dec: Deadly Year for JournalistsMore journalists were killed doing

their job in 2012 than in any year since monitoring started 17 years ago, say Reporters Without Borders. Eighty-eight journalists were killed, and those responsible usually face no punishment, creating a sense of impunity which encourages further violence.

19 Dec: Help for Syrians The UN has appealed for $1.5 bil-lion to help save millions of Syrians suffering a “dramatically deteriorat-ing” humanitarian situation. “There are nearly no more safe areas where people can flee and find safety,” said Radhouane Nouicer, UN regional hu-manitarian coordinator for Syria.

18 Dec: Police Corruption PurgedHonduras’ congress has passed a law

to purge the police of corruption. The law will require officers to undertake lie detector tests, drug screening, and a probe of their personal wealth. Honduras has the highest homicide rate in the world, with 86 murders for every 100,000 inhabitants.

10 Dec: Costa Rica Bans HuntingOn Monday, Costa Rica became

the first Latin American country to

28 Dec: US Adoptions BannedPresident Vladimir Putin has

signalled that he would sign into law a bill barring Americans from adopting Russian children and promised measures to better care for his country’s orphans. Putin suggested that strong and responsible countries should take care of their own orphans and lent his support to a bill that has further strained US- Russia relations.

24 Dec: Chinese State Media The urban Chinese population has greater trust in anonymous online microblogs than state run newspapers and television news, a new study by The Epoch Times has revealed. The Chinese government has long tried to keep a tight rein on media to prevent any challenges to its political authority, and ranks among the world’s worst media offenders in the press freedom index.

23 Dec: Rape Protests The Indian government has been caught off-guard by the depth of outrage following the recent gang rape in Delhi. India is seen as one of the most unsafe places in the world to be a woman. The 23-year-old victim of the December 16 attack, who was beaten, raped for almost an hour and thrown out of a moving bus, has died.

22 Dec: Arab Supermodels Arab supermodels are making a name for themselves in the fashion industry, and are changing the way Arab women are perceived by the rest of the world. The diversity and culture of the Arab world is appealing to the fashion industry and the models are helping to change the generic stereotype of Arab Muslim women.

ban hunting as a sport, following an unanimous and final vote from Congress. The Central American country is already known for its environmental mindset, with some 25 percent of its land protected as national parks or reserves.

6 Dec: Chinese Nobel Winner Mo Yan, the Chinese winner of the 2012 Nobel Prize, refused to back a petition for jailed compatriot and Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo. He defended censorship as sometimes necessary, comparing it to security checks at airports. 134 Nobel laureates including H.H. the Dalai Lama wrote to Chinese Communist Party chief and president-in-waiting Xi Jinping urging him to release Liu. China says Liu is a criminal and decries such criticism as unwarranted interference in its internal affairs.

3 Dec: Traffic Jam Thousands of trucks and cars have been stuck on a major highway in Russia for the past two days due to heavy snow fall northwest of Moscow. The massive traffic jam ranged between 40 km and 200 km in length at different times on Sunday. One man told the state broadcaster he had advanced one kilometer over the previous 24 hours.

3 Dec: Yellow Fever Outbreak According to the World Health Organization, yellow fever has infected 677 people, killing 164, over the last three months in Sudan’s Darfur. There is no effective treatment for the hemorrhagic fever, but there is a vaccine. WHO reports that more than half of the targeted population of 3.6 million people have been vaccinated.Hind Sahli, Arab supermodel

Syrian refugees

Mo Yan


Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamsala as the govern-ment in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.netLOCATION: Dharamsala – 176215PHONE: 01892-222218HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pmEMAIL: [email protected]

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organizes his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamsala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.comLOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221879EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organization with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organizes cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organization publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219PHONE: 01892-221554 / 221010EMAIL:[email protected], [email protected]

Tibetan Women’s Association The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 / 221198EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamsala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamsala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-220356 / 221348EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang)Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-Tsee-Khang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.orgLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Library (LTWA)(Centre for Tibetan Studies)The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.orgLOCATION: Gangchen KyishongDharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892-222467 / 226181HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm. Closed 2nd and 4th Sat. every monthEMAIL: [email protected]

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamsala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital)LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamsala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyEMAIL: [email protected]

Sambhota Tibetan Schools SocietyThe society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organization.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Dharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: [email protected]

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organization that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organization attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organizations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org

LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219PHONE: 01892-220589

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Narthang Building Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: [email protected]

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2)WEB:www.lhasocialwork.orgLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-220992EMAIL: [email protected]

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet(Ex Political Prisoners Association)Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organization that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: [email protected]

Tong-Len Charitable TrustTong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in

North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Some volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamsala-176215PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibet CharityTibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.inLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:[email protected], [email protected]

Charities and Organizationsaround town


Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism

and culture, Dharamsala—the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama—always evoked some special, unique and spiritual feeling in me. Having spent the past eight years with various studies and readings about Tibet, I was very eager to meet Tibetan people and to become useful to their

community.

Given my experience with development issues and my current stud-ies, I decided in January 2012 that I would come to McLeod Ganj and make my long-term dream a reality. Among all organizations that I con-tacted, Lha provided me with the handiest and most practical informa-tion. Soon after our first emails, I felt attached and could not wait to arrive here. Watching videos, reading articles, and imagining myself walking the streets of McLeod Ganj made me feel already involved with the Tibetan community.

After spending some days in Delhi, I finally arrived to McLeod after an exciting journey on the twisting roads up to the Himalayas. The welcoming of Lha, their guidance and the introduction to the Tibetan society was a stunning experience for me. I knew on my first day that I was going to have a wonderful time. The four weeks I spent here were filled with an interesting mixture of official research, unofficial talks, impressions and feelings, all of which helped me to get to know Tibet-ans better by finding out more about the realities they face.

I spent my days visiting the offices of Tibetan NGOs engaged in po-litical, social and human rights issues. I received the most welcoming approach and I am very grateful to all people who were always here for my never-ending questions. Thanks to you, I got on a new path to know you better, not merely from books and teachings, but by getting some real-life experience. Through my engagement, I aim to offer a long-term assistance to Lha and to do my best in the West to raise further awareness about the Tibetan cause. I praise Tibetan culture very much

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative provides HIV/AIDS education, prevention and care services in Tibetan settlements throughout India. The services provided by CHOICE range from in-dividual counseling to organizational training. CHOICE has a sponsorship program and oc-casionally utilizes volunteers. WEB: www.choicehivaids.orgLOCATION: Arora House, 2nd Floor, Temple Road, DharamsalaPHONE: 01892-220239, 941-831-6896EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a non-profit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole.They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala 176215PHONE: 0189 222 6627EMAIL: [email protected]

Rogpa Baby Care CenterThe Rogpa Baby Care Center helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by provid-

ing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The center needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks includ-ing diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka Guest House, Jogiwara Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 (near no.13 on map)PHONE: 981-665-9549HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm- 5 :00 pmEMAIL: [email protected]

Dharamsala Dog RescueDharamsala Dog Rescue is in urgent need of vet volunteers, animal experts and sponsors. We are in immediate need of sponsors for two paralysed dogs that need a home, wheelchair, monthly food and medicine. Please contact us if you see an injured/sick dog. WEB: www.hnsindia.orgLOCATION: Behind the District Court Complex on Chilgari St, Lower DharamsalaPHONE: 981-622-0841EMAIL: [email protected]

Clean Upper Dharamsala Project Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Fac-

tory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are of-fered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: [email protected]

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on non-violent strategies to help resolve dis-agreements and differences at all levls of human society. ANEC welcomes

volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of re-gional and global peace and nonviolent strate-gies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers.WEB: www.anec.org.inLOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional

Charities and Organizationschapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a future Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties, and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.orgLOCATION: Dharamsala–176219EMAIL: [email protected]

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children work hard at making delightful handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE: 01892-246366, 981-685-1841EMAIL: [email protected]

around town

Smiling FacesName: Eddie Quinn & Annie Wood Job at Lha: English Teachers

We were tired and jet-lagged when we arrived in McLeod Ganj after our journey from Southern Ireland, but awoke the next morning to the surprise of warm, bright sunshine, gleaming on the snow-covered peaks, as we opened the curtains to see our home for the next eight weeks. The forested landscape is filled with pastel coloured houses of various shapes and sizes nestling into precarious looking nooks and crannies on the hillsides. Solar energy is in evidence and prayer flags stretch between trees and houses, like ancient laundry, long forgotten.

We have been interested seeing how Tibetan and Indian cultures seem to complement each other in practical ways: where there is a day to day need which could provide employment, someone is doing it and tiny businesses seem to thrive.

Lha staff welcomed us and helped with accommodation, showing us places of cultural interest, and making helpful suggestions. Our job is to teach English to the beginner’s class. We were both teachers back home in Ireland, but this would be very different so we decided to pair-teach our class as it not only gave us confidence, but also gave us double the brain power – always good for both ideas and preparation! This

works well in the classroom, with one free to help, one to one, while the other is directing the topic.

Our students vary daily, but are all highly motivated, bright and cheerful, and very responsive. Their reading and writing skills are very good, so we focus on spoken English, which is their main need and goal. We work on everyday topics, using all their skills whilst engaging them in conversations and discussions which can get very animated. Some students are fairly confident and a few are quite shy, but a lively, fun atmosphere seems to bring enjoyment and learning to our new friends...and to both of us also.

After just a week’s teaching we have been deeply touched by the plight of the Tibetan people, by the way they have formed a happy and successful community here, in spite of their continued awareness of the sad situation they have left behind, by the warmth and welcome of their friendliness, and their never-ending appreciation.

This wonderful experience will remain with us for the rest of our lives, as will those beautiful smiling faces which greet us each morning in class and on the streets as we browse this hustle and bustle that has become our home.


BUS SCHEDULE

* Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.

Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: DELHI: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840)

AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165) *from Dharamsala

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala

FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamsala will cost you Rs 180. Cram into a jeep (from the bus

stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10.

IMPORTANT CONTACTSAmbulance: 01892-102, 222189

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-23107

Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Police Contact InformationLocation: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area.Phone: 221 483

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.phone: 222 053,223 381

Post OfficeThe McLeod Ganj Post Office is located on location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Phone: 221 924Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only.

Library of Tibetan Works & ArchivesWEB: www.ltwa.net/libraryLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamsalaHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH KarmapaWEB: www.kagyuoffice.orgLOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pmPHONE: 981-631-5336

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Jan 7-10: Dalai Lama teachings in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, India on Shantideva’s A Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life.

Feb 25: Dalai Lama teachings in Dharam- sala on the Jataka Tales in the morning at the Main Temple.

Feb: Dalai Lama spring teachings in Dharamsala, will NOT be given this year.

Jun 1-4: Dalai Lama teachings in Dharamsala on Shantideva’s A Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life (chodjug) at the request of a group of Indians at the Main Tibetan Temple.

UPCOMING EVENTSNaam Art GalleryLOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari DharamsalaPHONE: 9816043708

Tibet MuseumLOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod GanjHOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese RestaurantHOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

Kangra Art MuseumLOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 01892 224214HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 1892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Form Gallery LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis CafePHONE: 8894-060602HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

ART & MUSEUMSOm Yoga, Meditation & Reiki CentreWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: [email protected]

Tushita Meditation CenterWEB: www.tushita.infoLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 01982-21866EMAIL: [email protected]

Vipassana MeditationWEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.orgLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pmPHONE: 01982-21309EMAIL: [email protected]

Rishi Yoga & Meditation CenterWEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.phpLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling NunneryPHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502EMAIL: [email protected]

MEDITATION

activities & tourist info


activities & services

Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed MondayPHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106EMAIL: [email protected]

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and PanchkarmaWEB: www.kumarayurveda.comLOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite thethe Club HouseHOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs dailyPHONE: 8894492837EMAIL: [email protected]

Maanav Health ClinicLOCATION: Main SquareHOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 941-815-5795EMAIL: [email protected]

heAlth serVices

lAnGuAGes

Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & TreatmentLOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdPHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga CenterWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd.HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PMPHONE: 980-569-3514EMAIL: [email protected]

Nature Cure Health ClubShiatsu massageLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara RdPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdPHONE: 01892-20992

Synergy Ayuredic Massage CenterLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara RdPHONE: 941 80 8488EMAIL: [email protected]

Traditional Thai MassageLOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Infor-mation Centre, Hotel Surya RdPHONE: 981-633-9199EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Language Class LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992See ad on pg 3.

Hindi ClassesLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean RestaurantPHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with SunilLOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in DharamkotPHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan LanguageLOCATION: The Tibetan LibrarySee Buddhist Philosophy Listing

Hindi Lessons with KailashLOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm

Tibetan with Pema YoudonLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post officeHOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion SpokenLOCATION: Esukhia Office,Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Road, DharamsalaWeb: www.esukhia.orgPhone: 8679502538E- mail- [email protected] Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 980-569-3514

Rishi Yoga & Meditation CenterWEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.phpLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling NunneryPHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502EMAIL: [email protected]

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Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-22618 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]

Primary Health CentreLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main marketHOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pmPHONE: : 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamsalaPHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

Ayuskam Health CareWEB: www.ayuskama.comLOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod GanjPHONE: 980-592-8923, 973-621-1210

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00amPHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking ClassesLOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka GuesthouseHOURS: 10:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

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Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green ShopHOURS: 8:00am-9:00pmPHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking ClassLOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara RdHOURS: 4:00-6:00pmEMAIL: [email protected]

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Ti-betan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara RdHOURS:10:00am-12:00pm & 4:00-6:00pmPHONE: 981-616-4540EMAIL: [email protected]

Mr. Rita Kapoor’s Indian Cooking, Knitting & MomosLOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, BhagsunagPHONE: 94592 06586

yoGA & reiKi


news & advertisements

Visitor Services Offered at Lha

TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASSLearn more about the Tibetan people and explore the unique Tibetan culture including Buddhism by

learning the Tibetan language! Learn reading, writing, speaking, and grammar. Beginner and intermedi-ateclass levels with qualified teachers for interested individuals and small groups.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASSLearn a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread from qualified teachers. Learn to prepare and then taste the delicious and yummy Tibetan foods

for individual or small groups.

TIBETAN ARTS CLASSLearn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting including drawing and how to use color for interest-

ed individuals and small groups with a professional and qualified artist.

TIBETAN HOME-STAYLha arranges short or long term home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experi-

ence the Tibetan life style. Home-stays provide a valuable opportunity for visitors and locals to connect and learn about each other’s cultures.

YOGAFor sound physical, mental and emotional development we offer Sivananda and Hatha yoga for begin-

ners with a qualified teacher for small groups.

MASSAGEComplete physical and mental relaxation and stress reduction with re-vitalizing techniques of deep tis-

sue and acupressure with a professional therapists.

Contact: Lha Office on Temple Road, opposite State Bank of India.Phone: 01892-220992 Email: [email protected]

QUICK FACTS from 2003 to 2012

Over 5,187 volunteers from • 40 different countries have contributed to Lha's workMore than 1,365 foreign visitors • have participated in Tibetan cultural programsApproximately 789 students • from various international educational institutions have participated in organised cultural exchange programs

30,000 free books have been • distributed to Tibetan and local Indian schools and librariesMore than 29,031 articles of • clothing have been collected and distributed through the donation centerMulti-language courses have • benefited over 8,718 peopleComputer and IT workshops have • helped over 2,322 people296 free eye check-ups and • glasses have been provided for more than 146 people

Over 485 people have attended • Lha's yoga classesMore than 160 people have • graduated from Lha's massage courses67 people have graduated from • Lha's photography coursesThe Lha Community Soup • Kitchen has fed between 35-50 people daily with 105 people in total benefitting since its opening in July, 2011

Happy New Year!

Continued from page 9Lha’s Annual Report 2012


SEVEN HILLS OF DOKEBI

KOREAN RESTAURANT

Pure Korean Food AvailableFor both Veg & Non Veg

We serve special Kimbab (Sushi)For every day veg, tuna, avocado,

And many other naturally Korean foodsKimchi, Bulgogi, Very Clean & Delicious!!!

Also good MusicClassics, Jazz, Pop, Korean &

we have nice fireplace

Open 10:00am ~ Closed 10:00pmLocated on Jogiwara Road-Map #12

Mobile: 98055 83234Near the Japanese Restaurant

GOING TO AMRITSAR?Come see us at Tourist Guest House

British colonial mansion turned into beautiful guest house that tourists have been flocking to for a taste of the Raj life style.

We have Internet connection at Rs 1/min.

Comfortable stay with home cooked meals. Dorm bed Rs 125, Single/dble w. bath Rs 175-350.

Walking distance from train and bus. Private parking.Recommended in travel guide ‘Lets Go-2000’.

Contact Harindar at : 0183-2553830 / 09356003219E-mail : [email protected]

NorbulingkaWhere nature flourishes and tranquility prevails

Preserving Tibetan CultureLIVE ART

FINE SHOPPING

ART GALLERY

DOLL MUSEUM

SERENE GARDEN CAFE

INNOVATIVE CRAFT AND DESIGNGuided Tour, Round Trip Sharing Ride

Minimum Four People RequiredRs. 150 per person from McLeod Ganj

Tickets Available at Chonor Guest HouseContact: Chonor Reception #01892-221 468/01892-221006

Trisong Dorjee #9816523556Website: www.norbulingka.org

Dr. Mobile ShopYour Communication Partner

Mobile Sales, Mobile Repair, Sim Cards, Purchase and Recharge Phone Service

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101

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Learn Hindiwith Experienced Teacher, Surinder Kumar

Individual or Group Classes, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm everyday.

Located in Hotel Himalayan Paradise - Map #10Phone: 9882228502

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Interested in a Tibetan Homestay?

Lha Charitable Trust can arrange homestays of one month with a Tibetan refugee family. By sharing day-to-day life with a Tibetan family, you will have an opportunity to experience Tibetan culture in an intensive way. Spend your time in Dharamsala learning the language, cooking Tibetan meals, sharing rituals with a family, and making friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Homestays include accomodation, breakfast, and dinner. If you’re interested in a Tibetan Homestay, contact Lha at [email protected], or stop by the Lha office on Temple Road

in McLeod Ganj.


Dream Holidays Travels and ToursGround Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square / Bus Stand, McLeod Ganj - Map #18

(3rd office inside Mall)“let us be your dream holiday”

+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements - Lowest Fares Guaranteed+Discounted domestic air tickets

+AC & Non-AC cars & jeeps for short & long tours, airport & train station transfers+Rail tickets and hotel reservations + Short and long trekking tours

phone: 0091 1892-221 469 / 220 790, mobile: 981 608 7878 / 941 809 7149email: [email protected], web: www.dreamholidayindia.com

Jimmy’s Italian KitchenMain market, just opposite of prayer wheels on the

second floor. Jogiwara Road, McLeod - Map #6Contact: 9816124833

Come for fine Italian food, amazing views from the roof top terrace garden, live music, stylish decor & yummy desserts!

CARPE DIEMRESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

“Your Health is our Happiness”MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE,

CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOODHealthy hygiene, No MSG•Everything washed with sterilized water•Homemade muesli & homemade curd•Large variety of fresh juices•Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven•Relaxed atmosphere including roof top tables •& Japanese-style seating areaLive music every Sunday•

Located on Jogiwara Road,across from the Tibetan Reception Center

(down from Post Office) - Map #8

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese food and peaceful environment, just one minute from the Bus Stand, just behind Asian Plaza! (Map #3)

Common Grounds Cafe is a nonprofit venture of Common Grounds Project, an NGO with a mission to establish and promote innovative forums to achieve common grounds of shared understanding between Chinese and Tibetan people. We also host weekly programs including screenings, discussions, & workshops.

TIBET KITCHENRESTAURANT & BEANS CAFE

BEST AUTHENTIC TIBETAN CUISINE IN TOWNSPECIALIZING IN THAI, BHUTANESE, & CHINESE

WE ALSO SERVE FRESH BEAN COFFEEHealthy Hygienic - Only A.C. Restaurant in town

Homemade Noodles - Internet surfing

Party Bookings AvailableOpen 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. Located at the Main SquareContact: 01892-221980, Mobile: 98058 75626 - Map #5

Are you reading this byChance?

Or was it destined…

Discover the Secrets of Being, Doing and Having everything.Unravel the Mystery of your life, And Find the Purpose & Happiness.

Take a walk to….

KUNDALINIEsoteric Boutique

On hotel Surya Road, Mcleodganj - Map # 21

Result guaranteed life-style ideas & discussions at 6:00PM every eveningTuesday through Friday.

Reiki Meditation Healing, Crystals, Pashmina CarpetsEvery product a labor of love

HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE“The most suitable place for foreigners, holidaymakers, honeymooners,

trekkers, and those who wish to commune with nature!”

We offer: Affordable dormitories, well-appointed rooms, boarding, and McLeod Ganj’s FINEST hospitality!

Jogiwara Road - Map #11Mobile - 981 623 5648 Hotel - 01892 22 1559

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Glorious ArtsBELIEVE IN THE BEST

Precious & Semi-Precious Stones Gold & Silver Jewellery

Pashmina Shawls ♦ Thangkas ♦ Carpets, etc. Also Made to Order

**Bring in this ad and receive 11% off any one item!** (expires 31 July 2012)

Shop No. 11, Mount View Complex, Temple Road, McLeod Ganj (inside Hotel M, opposite reception desk - Map #2)

Mobile: +91-9816559319 / 9960802594 Also visit us in Goa, near the CSM Hotel, Baga

Deals in:


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McLEOD GANJ

DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Tushita CentreTibetanChildren’sVillage (TCV)

Naddi Village

CanttPolicePost

Road to Dharamshala

Main Bazaar

TIPA

BHAGSU NAG

LhaMAIN

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For Details See Advertisement Pages

11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture12. Seven Hills of Dokibe 13. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel 14. Namgyal Cafe15. Hotel Nataraj16. Pema Thang Guest House17. Chonor House18. Dream Holidays Travel19. Crepe Pancake Hut20. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen21. Kundalini

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3

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4

5 68

10 11

14

1312

1516

17

9718

19

Thank you for patronizing our advertisers!

20

Road to Dharamshala

8 AUSPICIOUSHIM VIEW HOTEL

Located below Ghu Chum Movement at Jogiwara Road (Map #13). We have 8 beautiful, well-decorated rooms with good-luck symbols in each.

All rooms have a balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed!

Our restaurant serves Vegetarian Tibetan and Continental dishes. We also have a coffee and juice bar featuring homemade cakes.

Phone: 01892 220567 Cell: 9418236603Email: [email protected]

1

21

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center

Private and Group ClassesTraditional Indian Ayurvedic healing

and Reiki healing - Map #10

Courses: 3, 5, 11 days with Indian Himalayan teacher Nitin Gill

Located: Hotel Himalayan Paradise, opposite of nunneryPhone: 9736184741 & 9882228502Email: [email protected]

Web: http://rishiyogaindia.com/reach.php

1. Lha Headquarters2. Glorious Arts3. Common Ground Cafe4. Kunga Guest House & Nick’s Italian Kitchen5. Tibetan Kitchen6. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen 7. Nature Cure Health Club8. Carpe Diem Restaurant9. Dr. Mobile Woeser Cafe10. Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center Learn Hindi with Surinder Kumar

Nature Cure Health Clubwith Mahinder Kapoor

Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 7Mobile: 94181 30119 or 09736333888

Email: [email protected]

12 years’ experience & recommended by the Lonely Planet

Visit us for: Swedish massage courses & treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment, reflexology treatment, SPA, Singing Bowl Treatment, steambaths, sauna & mud baths.

Our teacher has had experience teaching in Israel.

Woeser BakeryThe best

chocolate cake in town!

Cake, Coffee, Chai and much moreLocation: below Black Magic Club - Map #9

Mobile: 9857055048


Chonor HouseChonor House (map #17) is centrally located overlooking His Holiness the

Dalai Lama’s temple. We have eleven uniquely decorated and well-appointed rooms with room service and housekeeping.

Internet is available in our Cyber Yak.Our chefs create a wide range of Tibetan and International specialties which can

be enjoyed in our beautiful restaurant, our peaceful gardens, or on your own private balcony. Visit our bakery for freshly-made cakes and cookies to enjoy

here or to take away.For that special gift to take home, visit our shops,

Chonor Designs and Norling Designs (on Temple Road)and choose from our exclusive range of jewellery, clothing, and handicraft items.

Phone: 221815Talented artisans from Norbulingka Institute create all of our designs.

Phone: +91(0)1 892 221 006/221 077 Fax: +91 (0) 1892 221648Email: [email protected] - or - [email protected]

Website: www.norbulingka.org/site/visitor.htm

and RestaurantPema Thang Guest House

Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously cleanMinutes from Main Temple and Market, tucked on a

quiet street with magnificent view of the Kangra Valley.Rooms feature kitchenette. New addition: Yoga Hall

Traditional Tibetan Musical Eveningwith Buffet Dinner Every Month

Adjoining Restaurant offers delicious local and continental fare described by Wikitravel as

“lip-smackingly yummy.”Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #16Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net

Crepe Pancake Hut

Visit our Café for organic flour-made pancakes with fresh fruit sauce, a variety

of fillings & Green and Grain salads

Come to enjoy our homemade Pineapple beer & Ginger beer

Jogiwara Road, opposite Mountview Guesthouse (Map #19)

Mobile: 9418607037

KUNGAGUEST HOUSE

Spacious rooms with views over the valley, and...

NICK’S ITALIANRESTAURANT

Home baked cakes, quiches, pies, pastas, cheese, & Italian

favourites served on our massive terrace.

We also have on sale theRigpa Tibetan CalendarBhagsu Road - Map #4

Phone: 221 180

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Namgyal Cafe

The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map #14

Extensive vegetarian menu• Terrace dining with beautiful view• Best pizza in McLeod Ganj• Good music and friendly staff•

Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm

The Number of Tibetan Self-Immolations Rises to 95Continued from page 1

Mobile: 9736536552, 9816150562

passed away and his body was taken into the monastery for prayers. Since his early childhood, he was a monk at the Sumdo Monastery and in 2010 joined Taktsang Lhamo Kirti Monas-tery to continue his Buddhist studies. Kunchok Phelgye has nine family members including parents, Kunchok Kyab and Dolma Tso.

3 Dec: Lobsang Gendun, a 29-year-old Tibetan monk, self-immolated in Golog Pema Dzong. He succumbed to his injuries at the site. After a brief scuffle

with authorities, his body was taken to his monastery, Penag Kadak Troedrel-ing Monastery in Seley Thang region of Golog Pema Dzong. He is survived by his parents and 11 siblings.

2 Dec: Sungdue Kyab, set himself ablaze in Bora town of Sangchu, Labrang Tashikhyil region of eastern Tibet. When Chinese security person-nel arrived on the scene he smashed his head against a wall. Police doused the flames, and took him away, burned

and bleeding. He is being held in a Chinese hospital in Kanlho and no family has been allowed to see him. He and his wife Dugkar Kyi have a son who is nearly two years old. His parents are Tsebha and Bendhe Tso.

TCV Students march in Dharamsala showing their solidarity with fellow Tibetans

Documents

Contact December 2012