Contact October 2015

ContaCt འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

A Free Monthly PublicAtion For tibetAn issues And coMMunity inForMAtion

rGd no. hPenG/2013/51798 VoluMe: XVii issue: 9 31 october 2015

Free

Bringing Tibet’s Climate Concerns to World Leaders

Election News

Liberty Medal for His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Tibetan NGO Wins Prestgious South Asia IT Award

by Dorji KyiClimate Action for the Roof of the World is a campaign on environmental degradation in Tibet launched on October 20 by the Tibetan Government in Exile, or Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) in the runup to the United Nations

by Mary Trewartha The Liberty Medal, which honours men and women who strive for liberty around the globe, was awarded to His Holiness the Dalai Lamaw on October 26 at the National Constitution Centre in Philadelphia. The Dalai Lama was unable to attend the ceremony as he is currently resting

by Dorji KyiLha Charitable Trust, the Tibetan-run charity based in Dharamshala which helps Tibetan refugees settle in India, has won an award in the South Asia eNGO Challenge 2015, beating 70 other organisations to come first in the category Best Use of Website and Internet Tools.

by Tenzin SamtenExiled Tibetans all over the world took wpart in the preliminary election for Sikyong (Prime Minister) and members of the 16th Tibetan Parliament-in-exile on October 18.

Thinley Jampa, a member of staff on election duty at Tsugla-khang, the main Temple in Dharamshala, said

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www.contactmagazine.net Contact NewsContact NewsW

ContaCt 2 OCTOBER 2015

Can you Donate to Lha?Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, and language resources, computer and medical supplies, as well as any other useful items.

Monetary donations are extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated, large or small.

Please contact the office:[email protected]

(0) 98823-23455 / 1892-220992

This issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind contribution has made this publication possible.

We thank TFD for supporting the publication of Contact.

Acknowledgement

ContaCt, a free monthly magazine published by Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. The registration number i s HPENG/2013/51798 . Acknowledged by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 16 years.

700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the Dharamshala area, Delhi, and various diplomatic missions of India. Copies are also sent to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India and abroad.

Please Note:The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and are not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work. All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to:[email protected]

Mission Statement: Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others. Background: Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit organisation based in Dharamshala, India. It is one of the largest social work organisations 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 programmes, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programmes and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.orgFacebook: Lhasocialwork Twitter: Lhasocialwork

about lha & contact

Lha CharitabLe trustinstitute for soCiaL Work & eduCation

lhA trAVeler serVices And Volunteer oPPortunities

Long or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha

• English conversation (Mon-Fri, 4-5pm)• English, French and Chinese teachers • Computer teachers• Web designers and IT professionals• Contributing writers • Environmental professionals• Medical and healthcare professionals• Fundraisers and grant writers• Project professionals• Chefs and cooks• And much more!Share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organisation.

TIBETAN HOME-STAYLha arranges home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style and a chance to connect and learn about each others’ cultures. Homestays include accommodation, breakfast, and dinner.

RECEPTION & ORIENTATIONOur services help smooth your arrival in Delhi and your onward travel to Dharamshala. We also orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! Highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning, and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASSIndividuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momos, thukpa and Tibetan bread, with a qualified teacher.

For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office,

Temple Road, McLeod Ganj-176219Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P.(Mon-Sat: 9am-1pm & 2-5pm)

[email protected] (0) 1892-220992

Websites associated with Lha: www.lhasocialwork.org

www.samdhongrinpoche.com www.tibetfairtrade.com

www.tibetnature.net

*All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit

Lha community social work projects.


Conference of Parties summit (UN COP21) in Paris, France next month.The campaign urges world leaders who are gathering at the summit to recognise Tibet’s importance to the environmental health and sustainability of the planet and to make this a factor of a strong global climate agreement at COP21.

Scientists have been calling Tibet the Third Pole due to its ice reserves, second only to the Arctic and Antarctic. Yet over the past 50 years, the temperature of the Tibetan Plateau has increased by three times the global average. Tibet is facing the impact of climate change at a higher rate than elsewhere in the world, with resultant melting glaciers, deteriorating permafrost, degrading grassland and increasing desertification. The consequences of these changes will affect Tibet and the 1.3 billion people in Asia who are dependent on the rivers flowing from Tibet.

A video recorded message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama was screened at the campaign launch.

“This blue planet is our only home and Tibet is its roof. As vital as the Arctic and Antarctic, it is the Third Pole” said His Holiness in the message, adding “The Tibetan Plateau needs to be protected, not just for Tibetans but for the environmental health and sustainability of the entire world.”

There are three strands to the campaign, all participatory:

Network. There will be street theatre and a demonstration in front of the UN Office in Delhi on November 27, a seminar at the India International Centre on November 28, and they will be leading the People’s March on November 29. The events will highlight environmental degradation in Tibet, illegal mining, damming and the forceful resettlement of Tibetan nomads. “Through these activities we are spreading awareness of Tibet’s

critical environment situation as well as sending our support to the Tibetan delegations attending the summit in Paris” said Jyotsna George, SFT’s Campaign Director, India.

Traditionally Tibetan people have lived a very sustainable lifestyle with minimal waste. Before the Chinese occupation of Tibet, there were no big factories, no mining companies and no dam projects. Tibetans have a strong connection with nature, instilled by their belief in the sacred mountains, rivers and purity of nature. Since the Chinese invasion of 1950, this sustainable lifestyle that protects and respects the environment is disappearing at an increasing rate.

The 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP21/CMP11), otherwise known as “Paris 2015”, will be held in France from November 30 to December 11. COP21 will be a crucial conference, aimed at achieving a new international agreement on the climate, applicable to all countries.

Thunderclap which is looking to gain 500 supporters for Tibet Climate Action for the Roof of the World by November 28; a “Roof of the World” photo challenge which invites people to post photos on social media of themselves forming a roof over their heads with their hands; and a people’s climate march in Paris which will take place on November 29. In his message His Holiness also said “There has been a lot of human waste problems created by people. So those problems created by human beings, logically we humans have the responsibility to reduce…and eliminate these problems, this is not political matter or religious matter but these are ultimately survival of humanity”. Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected head of the CTA, said: “Tibetans must have a say on what happens to their land; Tibetan nomads are the expert custodians of the alpine pastures and their knowledge and experience must be recognised. China’s recently introduced Environment Protection Law must be used as a legal framework to hold the Chinese government to account. This law should be fairly and rigorously implemented in Tibet.”

Dr Vandana Shiva, the renowned Indian scholar and environmentalist, has commented on the issue, saying “The Tibetan Plateau needs to be protected and Tibetans must be the stewards of their own land so they can take care of the Roof of the World which supports half of humanity”. She added: “His Holiness is sounding the warning bell for the health of the planet and we need a groundswell of support for climate action for the Roof of the World as world leaders gather in Paris.”

Tibetan non government organisations are not far behind in voicing their concern. The Tibetan Women’s Association and Students for a Free Tibet, India are preparing for three days of events in Delhi, to be coordinated by International Tibet

Bringing Tibet’s Climate Concerns to World LeadersContinued from page 1

news & issues

COP21 Climate Change Conference logoPhoto:COP21

Sikyong Lobsang Sangay with Kalon and Secretaries of DIIR at Press Conference

Photo:Tibet.net


TCHRD. They were invited to participate in the election process in order to raise the profile of the exile Tibetan democratic process of election among international communities and to analyse the current state of the Tibetan election.They praised the Tibetan election for the high turnout and said, “we wish to congratulate the Tibetan community in exile for turning out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right to select their leaders in a peaceful and orderly manner.”

Comparing this election with the lastone in 2011, the observers said

“this election saw people’s vigorous engagement in election through debates, discussions and campaign activities, which is evidence of people’s active involvement in the political process which should be encouraged and embraced”.

Ryan D Whelan, Campaign and Advocacy Coordinator at ANFREL, said, “the inclusive nature of the EC’s organising the voting….is admirable and worthy of imitation by much larger and more established ECs in other countries.”

Discussion and DebateThere has been much discussion of election issues and the merits of the various candidates among the Tibetan exile community and on social media, with updates reported in the Tibetan media, and general engagement in the election process. There have been reports of some confusion due to an announcement by the EC of amended rules, and “some incomplete votes”, however these issues are being discussed and addressed.

China through the Middle Way Approach.

As an initiativeto inform and involve young Tibetan voters in the discussions about 2016 election, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and

Democracy (TCHRD) has produced a video Youth Speak: Tibetan Election 2016 as part of their campaign to involve and inform young people. Through this campaign TCHRD staff is running participatory sessions in schools and colleges.

Election ResultsThe results of the preliminary election have been trickling in and reported in the Tibet Sun. So far, they report that the incumbent Sikyong Lobsang Sangay is well ahead of the others with 22,063 votes; PenpaTseringhas 8,111; Tashi Wangdu 1,360; Lukar Jam 1,295 and Tashi Topgyal 28. The official announcement of the results will take place on December 2, following which the EC will announce a shortlist of two candidates for the Sikyong post for the final election in March, unless the margin between the second and third candidate is less than 20%, in which case the shortlist will consist of three candidates for the final election. Election MonitoringThe election process was observed in Dharamshala by delegations from three election monitoring organisations: the Asia Democracy Network (ADN); the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) and Forum-Asia in association with

“Voters have poured in since the opening of the polling booth at nine in the morning.” The Tibet Times reported that this year 4,379 more voters registered compared to the 2011 election and reports coming in from around the world suggest a similar enthusiastic turnout worldwide.

In Bhutan and Nepal, people voted discreetly a few days before October 18. There are reports that in Nepal, the incumbent Sikyong Lobsang Sangay received the maximum vote from almost all the Tibetan settlements.

Election RunupIn the weeks before the election, the Chief Election Commissioner Mr Sonam Choephel Shosur visited Europe to explain the election process to people living there, and to answer questions. This was one of a set of new initiatives to encourage people to participate. Election Commissioners also visited 84 Tibetan communities in India during the run up, holding workshops and organising discussions.

In Dharamshala, the Local Tibetan Election Commission (LEC) headed by Sonam Dorjee, the Settlement Officer, extended the registration date for voters there from August 30 to October 9. “…in order to give a chance to those who have missed the previous deadline or who are yet to register”. People who turn 18 in the New Year and have not yet been able to register will be given an extra 15 days.

Two weeks before the preliminary election, the current Sikyong, Lobsang Sangay, announced his election manifesto, saying that he will continue to work on the three principles of the current Kashag which are unity, innovation and self-reliance. He said he will give priority to securing the return of His Holiness to Tibet and reiterated his commitment to seeking genuine autonomy from

news & issues

Election NewsContinued from page 1

Tibetans participating in the preliminary election, Dharamshala

Photot:Contact/Lha

Election observers presenting their findingsPhoto:Phayul

Keep up to date with Election 2016 news at http://www.contactmagazine.net/category/election-2016/


kind of support and unity is very important in our struggle and it must continue in order for us to get our country back”.

Tamdin Hrichoe, Tenzin Wangchuk and Tsewang Dolma staged their “indefinite hunger strike” with the three aims of: raising awareness

about the critical situation inside Tibet; paying their respects to the self-immolators who have sacrificed themselves in Tibet; and to show

news & issues

Victory for the Hunger Strikersby Sam FergusonA high profile hunger strike by members of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) ended in victory on October 12 after written assurances were delivered by the United Nations (UN). The hunger strikers began their fast on September 10 in New Delhi. The UN assurances, delivered in person by the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative of India, Mr Yuri Asanasiev, stated that their demands will be addressed.

The President of the TYC, Tenzing Jigme, said “the power of non-violent methods of resistance and the fact that when we came together for our country as one – we win, as is evident from the victory”.

These sentiments were echoed by hunger striker Tamdin Hrichoe who expressed hope that the developments serve as an inspiration to young Tibetan people. Thanking the hunger strikers’ supporters, he added, “That

solidarity with Tibetans living in Tibet. There were also five demands to the UN: 1) Urge the UN to raise the issue of Tibet at its General Assembly and Human Rights Council session; 2) Urge China to address the demands of the self-immolators within Tibet; 3) Urge China to provide evidence that the 11th Panchen Lama Gendun Choekyi Nyima is alive; 4) Send a UN fact finding delegation to assess the critical situation within Tibet; 5) Urge China to release all political prisoners.

Activist and poet Tenzin Tsundue expressed little hope, calling the UN “a failed story like its predecessor the ‘League of Nations’”. He added, “I’m surprised the UN responded to our people’s demands this time, but the fact that the UN responded only when people are dying dispels the trust in the high ideals the UN promises.”

All three hunger strikers were hospitalised for evaluation and have now arrived home in Dharamshala.

Resident Coordinator and United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative meeting the hunger

the hunger strikers in New DelhiPhoto:TYC handout

Himalayas into northeast India’s Arunachal Pradesh before entering Bangladesh and merging with the lower section of the Ganges, when it empties into the Bay of Bengal.

Dickyi Chhoyang, Minister of Information and International

Relations in the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, suggesting to Phayul that as Tibet is the main river source in Asia, neighbouring countries should consider the implications of

World’s Highest-altitude Hydropower in Tibet

The Zangmu Hydropower Plant in Gyaca county in Lhoka, Tibet

Photo:voatibetanenglish.com

by Rohini KejriwalChina has completed the construction of the Zangmu Hydropower Plant on the Brahmaputra River, or Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, considered to be the world’s highest-altitude hydropower station and the largest of its kind in the region.

China Huaneng Group, China’s biggest power firm, will operate the plant which comprises six units and a combined capacity of 510 megawatts. It will supply 2.5 billion kilowatt-hours of power to the grid annually – a capacity enough to meet the needs of more than 600,000 residents based on Chinese per capita power use in 2014.

But the $1.52 billion(£985 million) project has raised concerns in India over the potential disruption of downstream water supplies. The 2,900-km Brahmaputra flows southeast from Tibet through the

the building of such dams. She also raised concerns regarding the lack of investigation over its construction and legality, saying “We are carrying on with our…efforts to create awareness about the ongoing environmental destruction of the Tibetan Plateau.”

According to Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, the two sides continue to communicate. She said, “China pays great attention to the issue of source water protection for downstream regions. Experts from both sides have also been in close contact. We are also willing to fully consider India’s relevant concerns and continue to stay in close contact with India about this.”

China is reportedly building additional dams. China seeks to allay Indian fears saying that they are run-of-the-river projects, which are not designed to hold water.


by Hannah Dellabosca Chinese President Xi Jingping’s recent four-day visit to the United Kingdom on October 19-23 reflects Britain’s precarious diplomatic balancing act. With a powerful economic relationship at stake, few British representatives were willing to raise human rights issues with President Xi lest it impact trade negotiations.

President Xi and his wife Peng Liyung were given a full diplomatic welcome upon their arrival in London. President Xi’s schedule

was packed with engagements with the Royal family and Prime Minister David Cameron, an address of the British Parliament and attendance at a UK-China business summit.

The Chinese ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaoming, stated that the visit heralds “a golden era for the relationship” between the two nations. Many UK investors, particularly within the infrastructure, energy and banking sectors, are intent on capitalising on Chinese contracts. As Asia’s largest economy, China is a heavyweight in trade negotiations, giving them considerable diplomatic leverage over the UK. In advance of the visit the UK government issued a press release announcing that the visit heralded more than £30 billion ($46 billion) worth of trade and investment deals, to create over 3,900 jobs across the UK.

Groups lobbying in advance of the visit to highlight China’s poor human rights record and to get the issues raised officially were ignored. The UK’s Chinese ambassador Liu Xiaoming advised British diplomats to avoid sensitive issues such as Tibet,

Deals, Protests and Snubs for Xi Jinping in the UKnews & issues

claiming that the President would feel offended if human rights were raised as a topic of discussion, saying “We don’t shy away from talking about human rights. What we are against is to use human rights to interfere with other countries’ internal affairs and to try to impose your own system on to others.”

Despite this warning, Fabian Hamilton MP, chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet joined several Tibet and human rights groups in organising a “Stateless Lunch”to honour Tibetan, Uyghur and Chinese human rights defenders who have been imprisoned and intimidated by the Chinese government. Mr Hamilton said “I am honoured to host Tibetans, Uyghurs and Chinese individuals who will share stories of courage, highlighting the oppression in China today under Xi Jinping.” He continued, saying that it was a “statement of the concern of so

many of us in Britain about this government’s approach to China, which is driven by commercial interests, with human rights being an irritating distraction to be ignored in public.”

Tibet support groups and human rights groups campaigned throughout the visit, taking to the streets outside the venues for Xi’s meetings and appearances with banners and slogans, sending him a clear message of dissatisfaction with his human rights policies. Protesters were outraged when three demonstrators were arrested under public order laws and their houses searched following their arrest. One of those arrested was Shao Jiang, a survivor of the Tiananmen Square massacre who

lives in the UK, “It feels like it was when I was in China,” Shao told the Guardian. “Then, every time I was arrested the Chinese police would search my rooms and take things. It reminded me of that.”

Shao’s wife told the Guardian “He was on his own, doing nothing apart from holding two A4 sheets of paper, one saying ‘end autocracy’ and the

other saying ‘democracy now’. He was standing there peacefully when the police attacked him.”

Charles, the Prince of Wales, was absent from the State banquet in honour of President Xi in what was believed to be a show of solidarity with Tibet. The New York Times reported this as a snub for China while the UK Telegraph said that the prince has had a troubled relationship with China for decades, partly because of his support for Tibet and his friendship with the Dalai Lama. The prince did meet Xi on other occasions during the visit.

President Xi spent three days in London before flying to Manchester, where he visited the National Graphene Institute and the City Football Group.

Stop PressFabian Hamilton MP raised an Urgent Question in Parliament, asking Mike Penning, the Minister responsible for policing, to explain why the three demonstrators were arrested during Xi Jinping’s visit. Mr Penning refused to comment. Other MPs criticised the decision to make the arrests. The Tibet Societyworked with Fabian Hamilton to raise the Urgent Question and provided a synopsis of the protests and arrests to MPs.

A free Tibet protester with Tibet’s flagPhoto: Matthew Chattle/Rex

Free Tibet and Amnesty International protesters admist the pro-China rally

Photo:Hugh Cunningham/Demotix/

Xi Jinping and David Cameron at the UK-China business summit

Photo: Leon Neal/PA


A Tibetan children’s choir performed during the event in honour of His Holiness, and National Constitution Centre president and CEO Jeffrey Rosen said that His Holiness represents “the ideals of freedom, dialogue, and tolerance.”

The Liberty Medal, established in 1988, is awarded annually to men and women of courage and conviction who strive to secure the blessings of liberty. Past recipients include Nelson Mandela, Sandra Day O’Connor, Kofi Annan, Shimon Peres, and Colin Powell.

Lha won the award for its extensive online presence and effective use of digital tools to carry out its activities.The “Best Use of Website and Internet Tools” category focuses on NGOs using websites to showcase their activities, projects and local

content to enable them to effectively network, and to gain support from funding agencies. It also welcomes NGOs that create awareness through campaigning.

Approximately 1,000 people from different NGOs attended the event which was held at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi on October 9. This year 225 nominations were received for the six categories of the competition, with competitors from

not being able to attend and that he was “deeply touched” by recognition of “my little service to humanity.”

He continued, “Mainly, I (am) fully committed (to) promotion of human value ... including freedom, liberty”.

retail online store outletfor Tibetan traditional handicrafts and decors, and blog.lhasocialwork.org which publishes Lha Charitable Trust news and the writings of its volunteers.

Last year Lha was runner up in the category “Best Practices of Social Media Usage”.

The eNGO Challenge aspires to promote and encourage best

ICT practices by NGOs for community development; to create an “ecosystem”of NGOs using ICT and digital media tools for benefiting societies and communities at large and to create and build a network of NGOs for innovative ICT practices. It is a joint initiative of the Public Interest Registry and the Digital Empowerment Foundation.

seven South Asian countries. Lha was represented at the award

ceremony by Deputy Director Lobsang Rabsel, General Secretary Tsering Wangdue and Programme Manager Dorji Kyi. They publicised the work of Lha at the ceremony and Tsering Wangdue gave a presentation on Lha’s projects and activities, he also thanked everyone at the event and dedicated the award to all the volunteers and supporters who have worked with Lha for the past 17 years with such enthusiasm and commitment.

Lha’s primary website www.lhasocialwork.org contains information about the organisation including its aims and objectives, volunteer opportunities, projects, and community and visitor services. Lha’s other websites are: www.samdhongrinpoche.com which offers free access to the writings, speeches, and interviews of Prof Samdhong Rinpoche; www.tibetnature.net which contains news and information mainly related to Tibet’s environmental issues; www.contactmagazine.net which provides up to date news and information on Tibet’s current situation and politics; www.tibetfairtrade.com a wholesale and

news & issues

Liberty Medal for His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Tibetan NGO Wins Prestigious South Asia IT AwardContinued from page 1

Continued from page 1

Lha’s General Secretary Tsering Wangdue receiving winner’s award for Lha at the South

Asia eNGO Challenge award ceremonyPhoto:Contact/Lha

General Secretary Tsering Wangdue andProgramme Manager Dorji Kyi at the South

Asia eNGO ChallengePhoto:Contact/Lha

at home in Dharamshala on the advice of his doctors.

Actor, activist, philanthropist and long-time Tibet supporter Richard Gere received the award on his behalf together with Dr Thupten Jinpa, His Holiness’s principal English translator, Dr Richie Davidson, founder and chair of the Mind and Life Institute and Kaydor Aukatsang, the Dalai Lama’s Representative in North America.

Richard Gere said the Dalai Lama is “one of the great ones” who “wants nothing more than our happiness.”

The Dalai Lama sent a video statement saying that he regretted

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s representatives received the award on his behalf

Photo:constitutioncenter.org


importance of education is beyond question, especially in this time. Students should have an ambitious

attitude towards learning and focus on improvement and excellence” said the Karmapa.

Penpa Tsering said, “ Each one of you, whether student or staff in this establishment, which had a very humble beginning, must not forget your duties and carry forth a sense

news & issues

Presidential Award for Sikyong Dr LobsangSangay

TCV: 55 years of education, training and rehabilitation

message to Tibetans inside Tibet that there are friends outside Tibet who are with justice, who stands for human rights and the freedom of the Tibetan people. At the same time, it sends a

message to the Chinese government that they should embrace the peaceful and reconciliatory spirit of the Tibetan people and solve the issue of Tibet.” He concluded that it is also a powerful message to a world ravaged

by Sarah Weber Dr Lobsang Sangay, Sikyong (Prime Minister) of the Central Tibetan Administration, was awarded the prestigious American Presidential Medal of Salisbury University for promoting peace and understanding. Dr Janet Dudley-Eshbach, President of Salisbury University presented him the award in front of a packed hall on October 13 in Salisbury, Maryland. This event marks the end of his three city tour in the United States, where he was visiting the Tibetan Communities in New York, New Jersey and Salt Lake City.

The Presidential medal is the highest honour that the university bestows to an individual for community leadership and forward thinking. Deeply touched, he accepted the award on behalf of all Tibetan people, saying that “by presenting me this medal, it sends a powerful

Gyalwang Karma Ogyen Trinley Dorje, the chief guest at Upper TCV’s 55th

anniversary Photo:kagyuoffice.org

The Salisbury University President presents the Presidential Medal to

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay Photo:Tibet.net

with violent conflicts that peace and harmony can only be achieved through non-violence. He received standing ovations for his speech and dedicated the award to all Tibetan people and the non-violent Tibetan movement.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a long-standing supporter of the Tibetan cause and personal friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, congratulated Sikyong on this special occasion, saying that our world needs more champions of peace and goodwill – especially currently, when the world is confronted with a refugee crisis in which there is so much suffering caused by violence and unrest.

Earlier, in September this year, Sikyong was also appointed, along with others, as a member of the governing council of the Indian Student Parliament Bharatiya Chaatra Sansad, which is one of the largest student organisations in the world.

by Tsering WangdueTibetan Children’s Village School has celebrated its 55th anniversary and dedicated this year to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to express their gratitude to him.

Thousands of Tibetans gathered for the celebration at Upper TCV school in Dharamshala on October 23. The 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje was chief guest at the event, together with Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and Pema Chinjor,Kalon for religion and culture, as well as other representatives of the Central Tibetan Administration and long term supporters and sponsors of TCV.

The guests were welcomed with a march past followed by cultural performances and a calisthenics display by the students. His Holiness the Gyalwang Karmapa thanked all the staff, teachers and students who have been a part of TCV for their selfless contribution towards preserving Tibetan identity and culture. “The

of responsibility in whatever you may be involved in”. He also urged TCV alumni to support TCV to the best of their potential to make TCV a more sustainable and self-reliant organisation.

Tsewang Yeshi, Director of TCV, said that new initiatives have been added to the curriculum to reflect the dedication to His Holiness the Dalai Lama this year. He also presented this year’s TCV annual report.

The celebration took place over two days to incorporate an inter-house athletic meet and a TCV alumni gathering of 1990 students.

TCV is the biggest educational institution in the Tibetan exile community. It was set up in 1960 by the Dalai Lamato rehabilitate and educate destitute refugee Tibetan children in India, with 51 children in residence at the nursery. There are now eight residential TCV schools, four day schools and three vocational training centers with over 16,726 children under its care.


The gathering was initiated under the leadership of senior religious heads and local officials. The local source from Tibet reported that the villagers also agreed to adhere to a set of rules

such as thieves being required to pay owners the value of their property plus a fine; and those who commit murder must pay 300,000 Chinese Yuan to the

term residents of Dharamshala, White Crane Arts & Media Trust aims to encourage and develop contemporary forms of creative expression.

The programme includes films from all over the world: features

and documentaries as well as shorts, and many of the filmmakers will be attending the screening of their films. The main festival venue will be the 500-seat auditorium at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, with more screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions and special programmes at the HPTDC Club House. Registration is open now and full details are on the DIFF website www.diff.co.in

by Mary TrewarthaMcLeod Ganj is once again gearing up for the Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF). Now in its fourth year, the festival showcases a selection of Indian and independent cinema, as well as hosting masterclasses, workshops, and outreach programmes and takes place in McLeod Ganj from November 5 to 8.

DIFF aims to bring high quality, independent films from around the

world, along with their filmmakers, to Dharamshala and to promote and encourage local filmmaking talent by organising special screenings, masterclasses and workshops. Another aim is to create a non-partisan

cultural platform to engage and involve all communities that inhabit the area.“Although Dharamshala is a very multicultural and multi-ethnic place, the opportunities for meaningful interaction between its diverse residents is scarce. One of our achievements has been to bring them all together to enjoy the festival” say Festival directors Ritu Sarin and Tenzing Sonam.

“We believe that festivals encourage more people to watch indie cinema, which otherwise remains on the fringe. It helps to refute commonly held myths about independent cinema being ‘too serious’ and ‘inaccessible’”, they continued. “Festivals like ours provide a platform to showcase these films. Also, crucially, it is in festivals like ours that these smaller films have a chance to be noticed by critics and the industry and maybe have the opportunity of gaining wider exposure. Here at DIFF, we hope to play our part in supporting and encouraging this exciting movement.”

The festival is produced byWhite Crane Arts & Media Trust which promotes contemporary art, cinema and independent media practices in the Himalayan region. Run by long-

Dharamshala’s International Film Festival

Tibetans Pledge Good Behaviour

Dharamshala Film Festival 2014 at TIPA Photo:DIFF 2014

DIFF 2015 from November 5-8 Photo:DIFF facebook

Villagers gathered at Soktsang monastery in Thangkor town, Dzoege county

Photo: rfa.org

news & issues

by Tenzin SamtenNearly 5,000 Tibetan villagers gathered to take vows of good behaviour at Soktsang monastery in Thangkor town, Dzoege County in Ngaba province on October 8.

The residents from seven villages:Chukra; Soktsang; Ka Barma; Ponkya; Dokok; Goser and Tsangwa assembled to pledge not to steal, gamble or kill, nor to get into fights or carry weapons.

Representatives of each family from the seven villages promised to keep the vows for next five years. The reason cited for taking the pledge was to create a sense of unity, friendship and harmonious environment for the benefit of everyone living there, reported Radio Free Asia.

victim’s family. They decided that any people who

do not comply with the rules will be excluded from religious services at the local monastery for five years.

Radio Free Asia reported that Buddhist monasteries in Tibet form the focus of community activities, not only in religion but also in promoting Tibetan national and cultural values among the masses.

This gathering is the second of its sort. The first was in 2001 where people asserted their intention to live with Buddhist beliefs and Tibetan cultural identity.

Such gatherings are increasingly taking place in many Tibetan regions in the face of Beijing’s cultural and political domination.


warm welcome to Tibetan refugees for resettlement on humanitarian grounds since the early 1970s. He said this was a generous gesture and he is

pleased to see that by and large they are contributing to the enrichment of Canadian life.

In the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Sikyong Lobsand Sangay and Speak

by Mary Trewartha His Holiness has written to the new Prime Minister of Canada, Mr Justin Trudeau, to congratulate him on his Liberal Party’s victory in the Canadian national elections on October 19 in which he ousted the Conservative Party who have governed for nine years. Mr Trudeau won on a promise of change and to pull out of the bombing mission against Islamic State, although they will maintain humanitarian aid, as well as delivering on pledges to tackle climate change.

His Holiness said that he has been touched over many years by the affection and friendship shown to him by Canadians from all walks of life and that Canada has extended a

by Tenzin SamtenHis Holiness the Dalai Lama graced the 10th founding anniversary of MewoenTsuglagPetoen School, a model Tibetan school in Dharamshala, on October 10.

His Holiness congratulated the students, staff and administration for living up to their name and for their recent successful results.

He especially thanked Professor Samdhong Rinpoche for taking the main responsibility for the model school since its inception.

In addressing the gathering, he also spoke about the importance of preserving the Tibetan language and

His Holiness Blesses the Tibetan Model School news & issues

New Canadian PM is a Friend of Tibet

how it has played a role in sustaining the essence of Tibetan culture in the face of massive political tragedy in the past.

Speaking about the responsibilities and opportunities of youth for the betterment of the whole world, His Holiness said, “As for Tibet, our struggle is not of one generation. It is a struggle of one generation to another. Today’s new generation of youth should preserve and promote the unique tradition and culture of Tibet. With that you have the opportunity as well as the duty to work for the benefit of whole world.” Emphasising the significance of fusion of modern and traditional education, he said that modern education alone cannot create a peaceful society.

Other dignitaries present at the event were special guest of honour Professor Samdhong Rinpoche; Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; Education Minister (Kalon) NgodupTsering and other senior members of Tibetan Government-in-exile.

Professor Samdhong Rinpoche in his address clarified that the Basic Education Policy (BEP) was not entirely created by him alone, as

perceived by many people. He said, “It is true that the policy was passed during our Kashag(cabinet) but it was result of constant guidance from His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the Tibetan language, education etc and

it was also derived from teachings of the Buddha.” The BEP was formally announced during Rinpoche’s tenure and the Tibetan model school was established in 2005 as a result of that policy.

Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School is based on holistic approach of learning through the Basic Education Policy of Tibetans in exile.

Students gathered in traditional Tibetan dress to celebrate their school’s anniversary

Photo:Yeonsuk KAHis Holiness the Dalai Lama with students of Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School on their 10th

anniversaryPhoto:Yeonsuk KA

Justin Trudeau, the new Prime Minister of Canada

congratulated the new Prime Minister of Canada. Speaker Penpa Tsering said “On behalf of all the Tibetan people, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile wishes to congratulate you and your party for the victory in the recent election…We also express our sincere gratitude to the government and the people of Canada for their support towards Tibetan people”. He continued, “We hope you will continue to play a pro-active role in reducing the current grave situation inside Tibet and in finding a lasting solution to the issue of Tibet based on the mutually beneficial Middle Way Approach of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Administration-in-Exile.”


into custody. He is accused of violating the terms of his release from prison

and carrying leaflets calling for the return of HH the Dalai Lama. Gyatso, who suffers from kidney disease and requires regular medication, is being held in Dashi county jail.

Oct 8: Dolma Kyab, 39, has been released after serving after serving ten and a half years in prison on charges of “endangering state security.” A

history teacher and writer, he was arrested in March 2005 after writing extensively in Tibetan and Chinese about democracy, sovereignty of Tibet, Tibet under communism, colonialism, religion and belief. His geographical writing included military details. He was educated in Tibet, Beijing and India.

Oct 6: Lobsang Jamyang, 15, a monk at Ngaba Kirti Monastery, was

detained on September 23 in the town of Ngaba in Amdo, Sichuan Province

after walking from Pawoe Sanglam (or “Martyrs path”) to the main street and shouting “Dalai Lama’s return to Tibet” and “Freedom in Tibet”. His whereabouts are unknown. The Martyr’s path is where many Tibetans have self-immolated in Ngaba, and the centre of the protests there.

Oct 5: Lakyab, 25, has been released from prison in northwestern China’s

Gansu province. He was jailed in 2008 for attempting to burn down the Tserima township government building and the local police station, as well as challenging Beijing’s rule in Tibetan areas, and is said to have been released because of a lung condition which has developed as the result of beatings and torture while in detention.

Oct 2: Five people have been released after a month in detention in connection with a petition and

protest over confiscated land. Tsering Kyab, Tsering Tashi, Patra, Dobe, and Tabe were freed.. Jigje Kyab, Tsepak, Phurko, Sonam Gyatso, and Shetruk are still being held; they wrote the original appeal about the land and are deemed key leaders of the protest. The dispute over the land has not been resolved.

Oct 24: Pema Rigdzin, 46, a music producer and former monk has been released from prison after serving 11 months of his two-year sentence,

reports Radio Free Asia. He was sentenced by the Chengdu Chinese People’s Intermediate Court for producing banned patriotic Tibetan songs. It is not clear why he has been released early. He has returned home to Ngaba in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Many Tibetan singers, musicians and writers remain in jail, detained to prevent them expressing their opposition to Chinese rule in Tibet.

Oct 16: Rinchen Dorjee, 63, and Magyuk, 56, have been detained in western China’s Sichuan province in connection with the ongoing dispute over confiscated land. They were

summoned for interrogation and then taken into custody. Radio Free Asia reports that they were among the people who presented the original appeal regarding the land dispute. Their families have been informed of their whereabouts.

Oct 13: Samdrub Gyatso, in his early 30s, who was released in May after completing a five-year prison sentence has once again been taken

Arrests and Releases in Tibet This Month

news & issues


news & ISSUES

Tibetan HeadlinesOct 27: Free SpeechTibetan Writers Abroad, English PEN, Independent Chinese PEN Centre and Sydney PEN have submitted a motion

to the 81st World Congress of the PEN International writers campaigning group in Quebec, Canada. The motion, about the right to freedom of speech and the situation of writers in Tibet, espouses the gross mistreatment of Tibetan writers and other intellectuals penalised for exercising their right to speech and expression.

Oct 26: Farmers ProtestNomads in Machu County, Kanlho Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the Gansu Province, have been using a banner to protest on the streets about

the unfairly low prices given to them by the authorities for their sheep and goat meat. They have expressed concerns in the past but have been ignored. They want food security for Tibetans living in the area, reports Voice of America/Tibet.

Oct 22: Homes DemolishedThe lakeside village of Trelnak in Chabcha county in Tibet has been devastated over the last few days by Chinese authorities who have destroyed over 300 private homes and shops, saying they were polluting and overcrowding the lake area. People resisting the demolition work were beaten and detained, and those

attempting to retrieve their possessions have been threatened at gunpoint, and also detained and beaten. All were later released.

Oct 20: Student Under ArrestPhuntsok, 18, a Tibetan student who was arrested last month by Kangra Police for failing to renew his Registration Certificate (RC) remains under arrest. The RC is issued to Tibetan refugees living in India and requires annual renewal. Bail has been denied and his school, Gopalpur TCV School, is very concerned that he is missing his studies and is working to secure his release.

Oct 15: More Repression in DriruThe Tibet Post, Phayul and the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy have reported an escalation in Chinese repression in Driru county in eastern Tibet, including demolition of homes, appropriation of land, banning of Buddhist studies and expulsion of nuns from the nunnery. Such repression is not new, but the reports show an escalation, and continuation of the communications restrictions in the area.

Oct 7: TYC AnniversaryThe Tibetan Youth Congress celebrated their 46th anniversary with a basketball tournament in Dharamshala, jointly organised with

the Women’s Empowerment Desk of the Department of Home. The gathering observed a minute’s silence

to mourn the Tibetans martyrs, and cheered in support of the ongoing TYC “indefinite hunger strike” in Delhi. The “Martyr’s Cup” went to Drokpa club (men) and Mentsekhang (women).

Oct 1: Hunger Striker HospitalisedTibetan Youth Congress Hunger Striker Tsewang Dolma has been hospitalised. She was escorted by Delhi Police to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital where she is being looked after. “My hunger strike is not hard compared to the atrocities Tibetans

are suffering every day under Chinese occupation,” said Dolma earlier. Her father fought against the Chinese when Tibet was invaded by the People’s Liberation Army.

Oct 1: His Holiness is “Well”His Holiness the Dalai Lama made an announcement in Minesota in America where he is resting after cancelling his American tour on the

advice of his doctors, saying “So I’m very well, and there’s no need for any of you to worry. However the doctors have told me to rest more. And yes, even I can see that…I do feel more fatigue than I used to.” His Holiness will be returning to Dharamshala on October 3.


news & issues International Headlines

Oct 26: Tories Win PolandThe conservative Law and Justice party has won Poland’s parliamentary elections making Beata Szydlo the new Prime Minister. She has defeated

EwaKopacz , the outgoing Prime Minister and her centrist Civic Platform party. Law and Justice has

strong support in Poland’s rural areas. It is the first time since democracy was restored in Poland in 1989 that a single party has won enough seats to govern alone.

Oct 19: TyphoonThe northern Philippines has been hit by Typhoon Koppu which has killed at least one person and forced over 15,000 thousand to flee their homes. Winds of up to 200 km/hr (124mph) have toppled trees and power lines and triggered floods and landslides, and the authorities fear further flooding as more heavy rain falls in the area.

Oct 16: US in AfghanistanThe United States will extend its military presence in Afghanistan beyond 2016. President Obama says the mission in Afghanistan is “vital to US national security interests” and the troops are needed to help Afghan forces counter a growing Taliban threat. 5,500 troops will remain – more than the small embassy-based force which was all that was due to remain at the end of next year.

Oct 15: 80,000-year-old teethScientists in southern China have discovered 47 human teeth dating from at least 80,000 years ago, but belonging to modern humans – 20,000 years earlier than is currently accepted as the origin of modern mankind. The teeth were found in Fuyan Cave in Daoxian and researchers say they could date from as early 125,000 years ago..

Oct 13: New PM for NepalKhadga Prasad Oli has been elected Prime Minister by the Nepali Parliament. He is faced with continuing protests over Nepal’s new constitution, the rebuilding of the country after April’s devastating earthquake and a fuel shortage. Mr Oli, the first prime minister to be elected under the new constitution, was backed by a coalition of royalists, Maoists and centrists receiving 338 votes of the 597-member chamber.

Oct 11: Twin Blast in TurkeyTwo bomb explosions at a peace rally near the main train station in Turkey’s capital Ankara killed at least 95 people and injured more than 246. The explosions happened at rally calling

for an end to the conflict between the K u r d i s t a n Workers Party and Turkish government.

14,000 people were said to be in the area. The Turkish Prime Minister said two suicide bombers are believed to have caused the blast.

Oct 10: Russian Buddhist TempleThe Datsan Kunzechoinei Temple in St Petersburg is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The historic Buddhist temple was built by Tsenshab Agwan Dorjiev, a debate partner of His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama, who was instrumental in establishing cordial relations between Russia and Tibet. The temple united followers of Tibetan Buddhism across Russia. It was ransacked during the Bolshevik Revolution in 1919 and lost many of its relics and ritual objects.

Oct 9: Ebola Again?Southern Nigeria has reported that ten people have been quarantined after coming into contact with an Ebola victim. This comes a year after the country was declared free of the virus. Earlier this week Guinea, Sierra

Leone and Liberia, the three countries which were worst affected by Ebola, recorded their first week with no new cases since the start of the outbreak in March last year.

Oct 7: End-of-Life CareEnd-of-life care in the United Kingdom is the best in the world, thanks to the National Health Service and hospice movement, according to a report by the Economic Intelligence Unit. Australia and New Zealand ranked second and third respectively. 34 out

of 80 countries provided good end-of-life care, and some of the poorest countries were praised, particularly Mongolia and Uganda. China was in the bottom ten

Oct 6: Trans Pacific TradeThe world’s biggest ever trade deal has been signed after five years of negotiations. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will cover about 40% of the world economy, cutting trade tariffs and setting common standards in trade for 12 Pacific rim countries including the United States and Japan. China is not involved; the US hopes China will be forced to accept most of the standards laid down by TTP.

Oct 5: Iraq Opens Green ZoneBaghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone is open to the public for the first time in 12 years as part of Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi’s series of measures to ease sectarian tensions and crack down on corruption. The ten sq km (four sq miles) area, which is home to government buildings and foreign embassies, was closed after the United States-led invasion in 2003. Some restrictions will remain.


and genuine support of everyone who participates in our clean up sessions. Thank you very much and your support in our future mass

clean-up programmes will be highly appreciated!

Lha’s Mass Cleanup this month took place on October 26. Around 70 people took part, including Lha volunteers, students and staff members

who enthusiastically tackled the litter around the Temple Road area.

The cleanup was organised by Lha

Ochsner Medical Centre;Dr Sunsan Nelson of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, and other nurses and health care providers.

Lha would like to thank all the group members for their participation in our programme. Our sincere gratitude to

the group leader Jamey Boudreux for his support - we look forward to having a long term association with him in the future.

post death experience.” They had an interactive session with Dr Tsetan Dorji Shadutshang, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tenzin Desel, Medical Officer and Mr Dawa Phunkyi, Chief Administrator of Delek Hospital about medicines in general, and also discussed the possibility of organising joint conferences in the future.

They later visited the Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute which practices the ancient Tibetan system of medicine, astronomy and astrology.

The group was led by Jamey Boudreaux, Executive Director of the Louisiana-Mississippi Hospice and Palliative Care Organisation and a professor at Tulane University School of social work. The group included Dr Robert Hart, Regional Medical Director,Ochsner Medical Centre;Dr Christopher Blais, Chairman of the Department of Infectious Diseases at

lha news and projects

Lha hosted a group of professional medical practitioners and health care providers from New Orleans, Louisiana as part of Lha’s Cutural Exchange Programme this month.

The group came to Dharamshala to learn about the culture and traditions of the exile Tibetan community.

During their stay, they attended a talk by Professor Samdhong Rinpoche on the topic “Buddhist view of dying, process of dying and

A Medical Exchange

Group leaders at Delek HospitalPhoto:Contact/Lha

A group of professional medical practitioners with Prof Samdhong Rinpoche after his talk

at Ahimsa HousePhoto:Contact/Lha

Lha’s students and volunteers participating in the mass cleanup Photo:Contact/Lha

Garbage being loaded into the truck after the mass cleanup

Photo:Contact/Lha

Keeping Dhasa Spick and Spanin collaboration with the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme (CUDP). Lha has been working with the CUDP and other local organisations to keep the town clean and green for several years. The Lha Environment Care Project works at educating the public through our environment website (www.tibetnature.net) and tri-lingual brochures, and organising mass clean-ups.

This project is ongoing and Lha urges everyone to get involved and help to keep our surroundings clean and to stay healthy. Our message to every individual is to take responsibility as every little action counts.

Lha appreciates the cooperation

Contact Magazine is published by Lha Charitable Trust. Lha is a non-profit organisation based in Dharamshala and works hard to provide many services for the Tibetan exile community, the local Indian community, people from the

Himalayan region and welcomes volunteers from different parts of the world.

To find our more about Lha’s work and projects, please drop into our office on Temple Road (see map on page 22) or visit our website: www.lhasocialwork.org


GyaltsenWhy do you come to the classes? Because, I am interested to learn new things. It is hard to learn languages and computer skills in my home town. What do you like best about the classes? If I can use computer tools, I can make many beautiful things on the computer and I also can learn from websites. I can check emails, talk with friends through social media, read the news and I feel the world is very close to me. What difference has it made to your life? It changed me many ways, if I can’t use a computer then I am like a blind man. Does it help you communicate with your friends and family? Yes, it helps me a lot to communicate with my friends and my family anytime.

Lobsang Damchoe Why do you come to the classes? This century, without learning computers we can’t do anywork because we can say this century is the internet century. So if I can’t use a computer it is the same as a soul without body. That why I decided to join the computer class.What difference has it made to your life? The classes make me more confident that I can do whatever I want to do in my life What do you like learning about on the computer? I like to learning everything about computers, specially web design.

A talk for Dharamshala parents, Is your child having the right mindset for learning? was held on October 28 at TCV Day School in McLeod Ganj, organised by Lha in collaboration with the Parents and Teachers Association of Petoen School, and Mcleod TCV Day School Parents Association.

The speaker was Mr Gyaltsen, the former Education Officer at the Department of Education, CTA. The primary aim of the workshop was to inform parents about ways in which

they can support their children with learning,and how to develop a growth mindset in a child.

Mr Gyaltsen spoke on the importance of a student’s background and socioeconomic status in determining their educational outcome as every child has a different family background. He added that parents and children should encourage a “growth mindset” rather than a “fixed mindset”. He also spoke of the importance of encouraging children for their effort as intelligence can grow with hard work.

His talk was followed by a lively question and answer session with the 50 or so parents at the workshop.“This was a great learning session for me as a parent, I realised there are many things that I was doing wrong for my kids even though my intentions were good”, said one attendee.

Mr Gyaltsen has an MPhil from the University of Cambridge and EdM from Columbia University. With many years of teaching experience, he has done extensive research on teachers’ attitudes towards ability grouping in a Tibetan school context. Currently he is volunteering at Lha.

Prinicpal of Peteon school and President of the Parents and Teachers Association were present at the event.

Lha Charitable Trust computer classes are one of Lha’s most important daily programmes. We have classes at beginner, intermediate and advanced level, teaching people the basics and then leading right up to workshops for web designing and development, content management and code. To date 2,748 students have participated.

I started teaching at Lha computer classes in 2009 and it is a great pleasure to lead the classes for around

six hours every day. My days with the students are truly awesome. I really enjoy sharing my little knowledge with my brothers and sisters, especially those who need this help. Most of the students are adults and they can be slow to learn computer tools. But they are really enthusiastic to learn and many of them come back to take the same class again so they can continue.

They know that computer technology is most important and useful in this 21st century, “without computer knowledge is like bird without wings” said one student. I hope I will have more students so full of enthusiasm.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my students for being a part of our computer classes, and I have learned a lot from them too. They make my days very special, busy and meaningful. It is an unforgettable experience for my life and I will continue to do my best in helping.

lha news and projects

A Learning Mindset Making a Difference: Lha’s Computer Classes

Yangzom teaching a computer classPhoto:Contact/Lha

Computer begtinner class 2015Photo:Contact/Lha

Meet the Teacher, Yangzom Meet the Students, Gyaltsen and Lobsang Damchoe


Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamshala 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: Dharamshala – 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 organises 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 Dharamshala, 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, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210EMAIL: [email protected]

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

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)The 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, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: [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 Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348EMAIL: [email protected]

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. InstituteMen-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, Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [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 KyishongDharamshala - 176215PHONE: 98822-55047EMAIL: [email protected]

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. 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. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.WEB:www.delekhospital.orgLOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd, DharamshalaHOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyPHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381EMAIL: [email protected] [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 organisation.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Rd, Dharamshala176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: [email protected]

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-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. Volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215PHONE: 01892-223930EMAIL: [email protected]

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)SFT is an international NGO that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 9882786875

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: CTA, Dharamshala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: [email protected]

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha, a Tibetan grassroots NGO based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations 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 Ganj, Opposite State Bank of IndiaPHONE: 01892-220992, 988-2323-455EMAIL: [email protected]

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross SocietyThe Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation.WEB: www.redcrosskangra.orgLOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244EMAIL: [email protected]

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of TibetGu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: [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 GanjPHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877EMAIL: [email protected]

Charities and Organisationsaround town

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The Insitute imparts comprehensive training and lessons on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera.TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am).WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod GanjDharamshala-176219PHONE: 01892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a non-government, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population.WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219PHONE: 01892-220690EMAIL: [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, Dharamshala 176215PHONE: 01892-226627EMAIL: [email protected]

Rogpa Baby Care CentreThe Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient

by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9857973026EMAIL: [email protected]

Gamru Village SchoolGamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living.WEB: www.gamruschool.comLOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215PHONE: 9816105554EMAIL: [email protected]

Clean Upper Dharamshala Project Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and

around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Centre are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: [email protected]

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149EMAIL: [email protected] Women’s TeamVolunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender.EMAIL: [email protected]: 9817105035 / 08894435595

Charities and OrganisationsThe Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions

on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea and many more benefits for volunteers.LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476EMAIL: [email protected], Facebook: Anec Peace

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters 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: Dharamshala–176219EMAIL: [email protected]: 9882787633 / 9882673330

around town

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 (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830)

AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs245) *from Dharamshala

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll

only cost you Rs15.

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTAHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.Phone: 222 053,223 381

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325

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

McLeod Ganj Post OfficeLocation: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

IMPORTANT CONTACTS


Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamshala 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: Dharamshala – 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 organises 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 Dharamshala, 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, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210EMAIL: [email protected]

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

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)The 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, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: [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 Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348EMAIL: [email protected]

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. InstituteMen-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, Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [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 KyishongDharamshala - 176215PHONE: 98822-55047EMAIL: [email protected]

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. 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. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.WEB:www.delekhospital.orgLOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd, DharamshalaHOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyPHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381EMAIL: [email protected] [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 organisation.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Rd, Dharamshala176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: [email protected]

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-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. Volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215PHONE: 01892-223930EMAIL: [email protected]

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)SFT is an international NGO that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 9882786875

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: CTA, Dharamshala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: [email protected]

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha, a Tibetan grassroots NGO based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations 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 Ganj, Opposite State Bank of IndiaPHONE: 01892-220992, 988-2323-455EMAIL: [email protected]

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross SocietyThe Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation.WEB: www.redcrosskangra.orgLOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244EMAIL: [email protected]

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of TibetGu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: [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 GanjPHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877EMAIL: [email protected]

Charities and Organisationsaround town

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The Insitute imparts comprehensive training and lessons on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera.TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am).WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod GanjDharamshala-176219PHONE: 01892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a non-government, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population.WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219PHONE: 01892-220690EMAIL: [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, Dharamshala 176215PHONE: 01892-226627EMAIL: [email protected]

Rogpa Baby Care CentreThe Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient

by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9857973026EMAIL: [email protected]

Gamru Village SchoolGamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living.WEB: www.gamruschool.comLOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215PHONE: 9816105554EMAIL: [email protected]

Clean Upper Dharamshala Project Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and

around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Centre are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: [email protected]

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149EMAIL: [email protected] Women’s TeamVolunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender.EMAIL: [email protected]: 9817105035 / 08894435595

Charities and OrganisationsThe Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions

on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea and many more benefits for volunteers.LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476EMAIL: [email protected], Facebook: Anec Peace

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters 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: Dharamshala–176219EMAIL: [email protected]: 9882787633 / 9882673330

around town

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 (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830)

AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs245) *from Dharamshala

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll

only cost you Rs15.

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTAHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.Phone: 222 053,223 381

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325

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

McLeod Ganj Post OfficeLocation: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

IMPORTANT CONTACTS


activities and information

LANGUAGES

Tibetan Language CoursesWEB: www.thosamling.comLOCATION: Thosamling Institute, Sidhpur (near Norbulingka) PHONE: 9882455065EMAIL: [email protected]*see ad on opp. page for more information

LRZTP Tibetan Language ProgramLOCATION: near Mentsekhang, VOT buildingEMAIL: [email protected]: www.LRZTP.org *see ad on pg 23

Rita Thakur 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, 98055-96741EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan LanguageLOCATION: The Tibetan Library*see Buddhist Philosophy Listing

Hindi Lessons with KailashLOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion SpokenLOCATION:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu RdPHONE: 8679502538 / 98820-04965 EMAIL: [email protected]

Om Yoga, Meditation and Reiki CentreLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 8:00am-5:30pmPHONE: 980-569-3514

Sunita Singh Yoga ClassLOCATION: Singh Corner, nr Magic TreeUpper BhagsuPHONE: 98058-89060WEB: www.maashakktiyoga.com

Siddhartha Retreat and Yoga CentreLOCATION: Upper BhagsuPHONE: 098165-65138WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org

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

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Mcleod Ganj Branch Clinic, 1st floor, TIPA Road (2 mins from Main Square)PHONE: 98828-60505EMAIL: [email protected]

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

MASSAGE

Lha Tibetan Cooking Classes - for groupsLOCATION: Lha Soup Kitchen, Temple Rd, Just below the Dalai Lama’s templeHOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00amPHONE: 01892-220992

Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms Rita KapoorLOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, BhagsunagPHONE: 94592-06586

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

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

Nisha’s Indian Cooking ClassLOCATION: The flourishing flora, Opp. TIPA, Dharamkot road, McleodganjHOURS: 4:00-6:00pm PHONE: 9882599093EMAIL: [email protected]

Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara RoadHOURS:10:00am - 4:00pmPHONE: 981-616-4540EMAIL: [email protected]

COOKING

Library of Tibetan Works and ArchivesWEB: www.ltwa.net/libraryLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9-10 am, 11-12noonPHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH KarmapaWEB: www.kagyuoffice.orgLOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pmPHONE: 01892-235307

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

YOGA AND REIKI

Nov 3:Lha-bab-due-chen, Buddha Shakyamuni’s Descent from Heaven)

Nov 5-8: Dharamshala Film Festival

Nov 12 - 13: His Holiness will take part in conference on Quantum Physics and Madhyamika Philosophical at Jawaharlal Nehru University

Dec 8 - 12: His Holiness will give teaching at Hunsur, Karnataka

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tibet MuseumLOCATION:Near the Main Temple and 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, Jogiwara RdHOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 1892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

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

Men-Tsee-Khang MuseumLOCATION: Near CTA, Gangchen KyishongPHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]: 9am-5pm. Closed on Sun, 2 and 4th Sat

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

Ocean of HarmonyTaught by an experienced and qualified coachWEB: www.oceanofharmony.orgPHONE: (+91) 99798-94585EMAIL: [email protected]

Tushita Meditation CenterWEB: www.tushita.infoLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988EMAIL: [email protected]

Siddhartha Retreat CentreWEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Nag, Near High Sky PHONE: 09816565138EMAIL: [email protected]

MEDITATION

ART AND MUSEUMS

TAXI SERVICES

Rinku Taxi ServicesLOCATION: Opposite Club House, near Tourist Information Office, Hotel Surya RoadPHONE: (+91) 9418687343, 9857030707WEB: www.rinkutaxihimachal.com


activities and information

Perfect 32 Dental ClinicDr Natasha MehraLOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 09218742046EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Physiotherapy ClinicLOCATION: Near Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215HOURS: 10am - 5pm (Appointment Bases) PHONE: 98823227383 / 9882321532EMAIL: [email protected] : tibetanphysiotherapy.com

Dr Kumar Ayurvedic - PanchkarmaWEB: www.kumarayurveda.comLOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opp 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]

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Below Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 / 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: 7833047078 / 9882320136 EMAIL: [email protected]

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

HEALTH SERVICES

News:rfa.org/english/news/tibet - Radio Free Asia’s mission is to provide accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free pressvoatibetanenglish.com - Voice of America’s Tibet pages - VOA is an international multimedia broadcasting service funded by the US government contactmagazine.net - Contact magazine onlinephayul.com -Phayul is published in Dharamshala,also has opinion, reviews, photos, etcguardian.co.uk/world/tibet - the UK Guardian newspaper’s Tibet pagesscmp.com/news/china - the South China Morning Post – one of the more independent news sources in Chinathetibetpost.com and tibetexpress.net are both sources of news and information

News, information and campaigning:tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exiledalailama.com - for broadcasts of His Holiness’s teachings, his schedule and information about Tibet and the Dalai Lamatchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a non-government organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracytibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-government organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from Chinastudentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independencetibetanreview.net - news, opinions, reviews and informationfreetibet.org: - UK-based campaigning organisation, also a good news sourcesavetibet.org - international campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projectstibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people

Writings:highpeakspureearth.com/category/woeser - occasional translations of Woeser’s enormously popular blog – Woeser lives in Beijing and is continually harassed by the Chinese government for her courageous writings.

Tibet-Related Websites


CARPE DIEMRESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE, CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOOD, No MSG

Everything washed with sterilized water•Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven•Relaxed atmosphere & Japanese-style seating •Live music every Sunday - Map#9•

Located on Jogiwara Road,across from the Tibetan Reception Center

(down from Post Office) - Map # 9

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

Dr Mobile ShopYour Communication Partner

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

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, Map # 7 McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101

advertisements

Delicious coffee, authentic homemade Tibetan and western cuisineAll food washed in clean filtered water

Free movies on Saturdays at 7.30pmLive Tibetan music every Wednesday at 6.30pm

Jogiwara Road (near post office), McLeod Ganj – Map # 8

BLACK TENT CAFEFree high-speed Wi-fi

Meditation IntensivesMeditation Therapies

Intensive Yoga Courses/RetreatsStress Management

Integrated Healing TherapiesWellness Retreats

Phone: (+91) 9979894585Email: [email protected]

For upcoming events, visit www.oceanofharmony.org

For intensive trainings around the world (any country) contact: Shalu Patel (experienced & qualified life and wellness coach for international trainings)

Ocean of Harmony Programmes for Wellbeing

Reach thousands of peopleOver 6,000 monthly online viewers and 1,000 copies

printed and distributed around the world

Call: [email protected]

Both online & print advertising* * * * *

ADVERTISE IN CONTACT!

8 AUSPICIOUSHIM VIEW HOTEL

8 beautiful rooms with balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed!

Phone: 01892-220567 Cell: 9418236603 Jogiwara Rd (Map #12)Email: [email protected]

THE TASTE OF INDIA since 1995

Unique Garden restaurant and “HOMESTAY”• home cooked wheat porridge, fluffy pancakes and • paranthas, BBQ, kababs, Naans and many more Enjoy our garden café with fibre roof and amongst • unique plants surrounded with pine trees Neat & clean rooms with beautiful valley view• High speed Wi-Fi•

FREE HOME DELIVERY* CALL: 9736083878, 9736040937. (8:30am – 10:30pm) Opp. TIPA, Dharamkot Road, Mcleod Ganj, Map # 21

www.mcleodganjhomestay.net

Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously clean;minutes from the Main Temple and McLeod Ganj Market;

Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #15Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net

and RestaurantPema Thang Guest House

RINKU TAXI SERVICEBest taxi & car rental services in Himachal, Tour Packages

Pick-up & Drop-in to Airports, Rail station, Bus stop Opp. Club House, near Tourist Information Office

Hotel Surya Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - Map#16PHONE: (+91) 94186-87343, 98570-30707

www.rinkutaxihimachal.com


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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

SQUARE

See Advertisement Pages for details of advertisers

13. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen14. Chonor House15. Pema Thang16. Rinku Taxi Service17. Central Tibetan Administration, Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Tibetan Library18. LRZTP Tibetan Language Program19. Tibetan Museum and Temple20. Tibetan Handicraft Centre21. Taste of India22. SnowLion Custom Tattoo

2

3

Map not to scale

4 5 6 8

11

14

13

12

1516

19

107

Road to Dharamshala

1

1. Lha Headquarters 2. Namgyal Cafe3. Common Ground Cafe4. Dream Holidays Travel5. Shangrila Hotel6. Nature Cure Health Club7. Dr Mobile, Woeser Bakery8. Black Tent Cafe9. Carpe Diem Restaurant10. Perfect 32 Dental Clinic11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture 12. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel

9

Our specialty: Chocolate Vegan cake, Gluten free cake, Fresh Coffe Beans, cappaccino, Chocolate chilli lollipop

9am to 7pm - Closed on MondayBelow “Black Magic Hotel” on Jogiwara Rd - Map # 7

Dream Holidays

NEED A DENTIST?For all your dental require-

ments under one roof,in a sterile clinic

CONTACT

Near Hotel Mount View Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Map# 10

Call: 09218742046perfect32dentalclinic@

gmail.com

Dr Natasha Mehra@

Perfect 32 Dental Clinic

Since 1998Ground Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square, McLeod Ganj (3rd office inside Mall) - Map #4

+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements +AC/Non-AC cars jeeps for tours +Flight/Rail tickets, hotel reservations

contact: 98160-87878 / 94180-97149, [email protected]

Nature Cure Health ClubJogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 6 Mobile: 07833047078 Email: [email protected], 18+ yrs’ experience: Swedish massage courses &

treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment, reflexology treatment, SPA, Singing Bowl Treatment and many more!

Namgyal Cafe

The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map # 2

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

Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 pmMobile: 9882649768

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

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21

Locations of important places around McLeod Ganj

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22


advertisements

To advertise

on this page

Call Lha office:

01892-220992

or visit the office at

Temple Rd,

Opp State Bank of India

Mcleod Ganj - Map#1

Advertise in Contact

Professional Tattoo ArtistTraditionally Trained Tibetan Thangka Painter

100% Safe & Hygienic Contact: 9459160626-9805286528

SNOwLION

tattooArtist PASSANG

Location: near Hotel Tibet

CUSTOM

snowlion custom tattoo : facebook

reGd no.u74140hP2013Ptc000540 iec no. 2213006741 tin: 02060101641 cst: 02060101641 PAn: AAccl5897M

Managing DirectorNgawang Rabgyal

Editor-in-ChiefJenny James

EditorTenzin Samten

Assistant EditorTsering Wangdue

ReporterDorji Kyi

Layout DesignTamdin Yangzom

Circulation ManagerLobsang Rabsel

Published byLha Charitable Trust

Web: www.lhasocialwork.orgwww.contactmagazine.net

Phone: 91(0)1892-220992Email:[email protected]: ContactNewsTwitter: @ContactTibet

Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamshala Phone: 222390 Email:[email protected]

ContaCtnewsletter

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།To advertise call Lha office:

01892-220992 or visit Lha office

at Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj

Map #1

Follow Contact

website using the QR code!

What we do?Retail outlet, manufacture, wholesale, import & export, support local artisans, tours and travel.The LTFT is pleased to welcome any businesses wishing to form partnerships and set up exhibition tours.

What’s LTFT?Lha Tibet Fair Trade (LTFT) is a certified Fair Trade company which supports Lha’s charitable work through the sale of traditional Tibetan goods made by local craftspeople.

What we have?Handmade woollen carpets, singing bowls, jewellery, goods made from recycled paper, Tibetan home decor pieces and many more!

Why LTFT?Your shopping and support will contribute to Lha’s numerous social projects and help Lha become more sustainable and self-sufficient.

lhA tibet FAir trAde ལྷ་བོད་ཀྱི་ལུགས་མཐུན་བཟོ་ཚོང་ལས་ཁང་།

Documents

Contact October 2015