Contact December 2013 by Lha Charitable Trust

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

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contact

A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information Rgd No. HPENG/2013/51798

No Respite for Driru by Tashan Mehta Chinese authorities in Tibet’s Driru County have shut down Drongna monastery and surrounded others with paramilitary police. In recent weeks, security forces have been arresting residents, raiding monks’ quarters and family homes, seizing computers and mobile phones. Three monks from the Driru area were detained by police at the end of November while visiting Tibet’s regional capital Lhasa, a source told Radio Free Asia (RFA), while eight monks from Driru’s Rabten Monastery who had studied at Palyul, Sershul, and Sertha monasteries in neighbouring Chinese provinces have also been

Chinese military convoys arriving in Driru county to crackdown on Tibetans Photo: TibetTimes

detained. According to the source, Chinese paramilitary forces now surround Tamoe, Rabten, and Dron Na monasteries. More than a thousand Tibetans have been detained since the Chinese launched their crackdown in Driru in September. Of these, some 600 detainees are being held in Driru’s Continued on page 5

Volume: XV Issue: 12

31 December 2013

Two Die Protesting Againts China’s Rule in Tibet Kunchok Tseten, 30, set himself ablaze in Meruma town in Ngaba County, Tibet, on December 3. Before collapsing, Tseten shouted slogans demanding the return of the exiled Tibetan leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and for the union of Tibetans inside Tibet with the exile community, “Long live G y a l w a T e n z i n Gyatso, let’s unite our brothers here and those in exile”. Chinese police on routine patrol immediately surrounded him and, after a few clashes with local Tibetan bystanders, took him away. Some bystanders, Tseten’s wife, and a few of his relatives were arrested. All businesses in the town were shut. Sources said that many cellphones were confisticated from the local people as security across the region heightened. His brother has reported that Tseten said this summer “I can’t tolerate the atrocities committed by the Chinese government on us Tibetans, and with all the self-immolation by Tibetan brothers and sisters thus far I would one day sacrifice myself by burning myself”. Tseten lived with his wife Namnang, 28, and two children, Chakdor Kyab, 4, and Paltsel Kyab, 3. The authorities claim that Tseten died shortly after his protest and that they cremated his body; they have handed over an urn reportedly containing his ashes to Tseten’s family.

On December 19, Tsultrim Gyaltso, a Tibetan monk from Achok village in Sangchu County, Kanlho Prefecture, Gansu Province set himself on fire at around 2:30pm (local time) in protest against Chinese rule. He died on the spot, said reports from Tibet. Local Tibetans took the body to his monastery where around 400 monks held a prayer session for the deceased. Tsultrim left behind a hand-written note in which he says that the reasons for his self-immolation protest are to call for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, release of the Panchen Lama and for the welfare of all Tibetans. Tsultrim Gyaltso, in his early 40’s, is described as a Tibetan who was passionate Tsultrim Gyatso left behind a n d a hand-written note Photo: Contact/Lha concerned about the Tibetan culture and religion. He was the son of Lhamo Kyi. Tsultrim has become the 125th Tibetan to self-immolate since 2009.

about lha & contact

Lha Charitable Trust

Institute for Social Work & Education 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 programs, IT classes, vocational training,

health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs 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.org

Become a Sponsor for Lha’s Soup Kitchen

On 6 July 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamshala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. Forty to fifty needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of 15 rupees per person, per meal. Meals are completely free for those who cannot afford to pay. The kitchen’s primary objective is to provide refugees with low-cost and nutritious meals while educating them about healthy eating and living. The kitchen will also serve as a space where refugees can receive formal training for the service and restaurant industry.

Acknowledgement

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Contact, a free monthly publication of 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 is HPENG/2013/51798. Recognised 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 14 years. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamshala area and in Delhi, and various diplomatic missions to India. Copies are also send to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India. Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail! Guidelines for submission: Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 20th of each month. Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material via email to editor@contactmagazine.net

Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, and language resources, computer Please Note: and medical supplies, as well as any The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the other useful items.

This Issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Monetary donations are extremely Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind helpful and are greatly appreciated, contribution has made this large or small. publication possible.

authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work. All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@ contactmagazine.net

We thank TFD for supporting Contact publication.

Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops.

Contact

Please contact the office: office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992

DECEMBER 2013

about lha & contact

Dharma-based Tibetan Language Course

24th March-May 16th 2014 Taught by Gavin Kilty

(Full time Tibetan translator, trained language teacher) Organised by Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo Translation Program Cost US$1000

• A Tibetan course for beginners focused on the aims of reading Dharma texts, listening to teachings and speaking with Tibetan teachers. • 2 ½ hours classroom work on colloquial and reading. • 2 hour practice sessions with Tibetan conversation partners. • A basic ability to read and pronounce, however badly, the written text is a prerequisite for attending the course.

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Lha’s Student Group from Mexico

The final student exchange group to visit Lha this year was a group of 21 students and teachers from the Instituto Tecnologico de Estudiios Superiores de Monterrey in Mexico. The group arrived in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala on December 11 to spend three weeks exploring the Tibetan refugee community and the local culture

Buddhism and non-violence at Ahimsa house. On December 28, Kalon Dicki Chhoyang of the Department of Information and International Relations, CTA addressed the group. The students met prominent intellectuals and leaders of Tibetan organisations in Dharamshala,

here in Dharamshala. They participated in a programme of activities organised by Lha. On December 16, Professor Samdhong Rinpoche, the former Prime Minister of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) gave a talk on

and volunteered in different nongovernment organisations, giving them the opportunity to make a contribution while learning more about Tibetan issues and the struggle for freedom. We wish them all the very best in the new year.

Lha Traveler Services & Volunteer Opportunities

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Long- or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha • English conversation Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm • English, French, and Chinese teachers & tutors • Computer teachers • Web designers and IT professionals • Contributing writers • Environmental professionals • Medical & healthcare professionals • Fundraisers & grant writers • Project professionals • Chefs & cooks • Human rights & legal professionals • Personal assistant (PA) • And much more! Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organisation. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. Contact

Classes and Services

TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS Learn more about the Tibetan people, culture, and Buddhism by learning the Tibetan language! Beginner and intermediate class levels with qualified teachers for individuals and small groups. TIBETAN COOKING CLASS Individuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread with a qualified teacher. TIBETAN ARTS CLASS Learn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting, drawing, and how to use colour with a qualified artist. For individuals and small groups. TIBETAN HOME-STAY Lha 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.

RECEPTION & ORIENTATION Our services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamshala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are 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 There is a discount for people travelling together. *All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha community social work projects. For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P. (Mon-Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm & 1:00-5:00pm) office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992 www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net www.tibetnature.net DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

Nobel Peace Prize Day by Annapurna Mellor International Human Rights day was celebrated globally on December 10, commemorating the day the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. The day also marked 24 years since His Holiness the Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize. In Dharamshala a ceremony was held in the Tsuglakhung courtyard with Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, together with other government officials and representatives in attendance. In his speech, the Sikyong referred to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He said, “Unfortunately, even after 65 years of proclamation, there is not much for Tibetans to celebrate given the deteriorating human rights conditions in Tibet”. He continued by reiterating his committed approach to the Middle Way, commenting that dialogue is the

most realistic way to benefit the people living inside Tibet: “The Middle-Way Approach neither seeks separation from the People’s Republic of China, nor a

The Tibetan Parliamentary delegation with EU Committee members in Brussels Photo: Office of Tibet/CTA

high degree of autonomy, but genuine autonomy for all Tibetan people under a single administration”. The Tibetan-government-in-exile also urged China to respect the human rights of the Tibetans inside Tibet. The

number of self-immolations since 2009 has reached 125 this month. During the event senior civil servants were honoured for their work, and songs and dances were performed by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and local school children. Around the world, Kalons of the Central Tibetan Administration attended the celebrations with members of Tibetan communities and support groups around Europe. Kalon Dolma Gyari met Tibetans and supporters in the Italian city of Torino. An event in Paris was organised by Tibetan supporters and, attended by Kalon Tsering Dhondup and members of the French parliament. In Moscow, Buddhists, friends, and supporters of Tibet gathered to offer long-life prayers for Tibet and to listen to speeches by various representatives of Tibetan organisations based in Russia.

Tibetan Parliament-in-exile Speaker Visits the US In his various addresses to the an opportunity for him to inform and by Jigme Thinley Tibetan Parliament-in-exile Speaker Tibetan communities in every state encourage Tibetans living in the US Mr Penpa Tsering visited the US from he visited, Penpa Tsering spoke of the who said they have found new spirit December 6-17 where, in addition to contribution made by HH the Dalai to work for unity and towards self official meetings and public talks, he Lama and the gradual development government inside Tibet. The Speaker gave interviews met and addressed Tibetan residents in every state and had talks with for Radio Free Asia and Voice of America. In Washington DC, the leaders of the various Tibetan he visited the office of National Associations in America. His tour of Endowment for Democracy where America was organised by the Office he met its Director Carl Gershman. of Tibet in New York, working with Later he attended a luncheon meeting other Tibetan Associations. with members of the Board of the The Speaker’s first visit was International Campaign for Tibet to Minnesota where he was chief and spoke to their new President guest at a reception dinner hosted Mr Matteo Mecacci, former Italian by the Tibetan American Foundation parliamentarian and a long-time of Minnesota. At the dinner he supporter of Tibet. met State Legislators Carolyn Clockwise from left: 1. The speaker with the The visit concluded with a Laine from Minnesota and Dean Governor of Vermont State Peter Shumlin. 2. With Carolyn Laine and Dean Knudsen. 3. With the meeting with Mr Peter Shumlin, Knudsen from Wisconsin, and later, Commissioner for Human Rights in Minnesota. Governor of Vermont State. The on Human Rights Day, he met Mr Photo: Office of Tibet/CTA two leaders discussed the critical Kevin Lindsay, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human of Tibetan democracy in exile, and situation in Tibet and Speaker Penpa Rights. On this day, which is also the the importance of the preservation of Tsering emphasised the importance 24th anniversary of HH the Dalai Lama the Tibetan culture and language. His of Tibet from an environmental point being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, speeches were followed by question of view, particularly in the context of he addressed the Tibetan Community. and answer sessions, and provided Southeast Asia. Contact

DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

No Resolution in Driru

Continued from page 1

neighbouring Nagchu county centre, with 200 held in Tsamtha village in Driru, and another 200 held in Driru County detention centre. Samdrup, a European-based Tibetan, told RFA that “all those under detention are being questioned and given programs of political re-education.” Driru has been declared a “county with political instability” by the Chinese government and extreme measures are being taken to “bring it under

control”. A source said, “[The Chinese Government] believes that if Driru is not brought under control, this could have a disruptive impact in other areas, and they are conducting what they call an ‘intense and thorough’ political reeducation program in which meetings are being conducted both day and night in the villages and monasteries”. Among those targeted are monks who have visited India and Nepal; they are being made to undergo “intense

re-education sessions”. Monks from the area who have studied in Buddhist institutions in neighbouring Chinese provinces are also being recalled for indoctrination, possibly to mitigate their influence in other areas. Driru County in the Tibet Autonomous Region has consistently defied Chinese attempts to implement forced displays of loyalty such as flying the Chinese flag from their rooftops, which sparked protest in Driru in September.

Arrests and Sentences in Driru Tsekar Thinlay, a young singer, was sentenced to nine years imprisonment on December 19. Thinlay, 22, was arrested around November 20 on the accusation of provoking anti-Chinese government sentiment through his Ring of Unity album which carries a message of Tibetan unity which is well received among his Tibetans listeners. Choekyab was sentenced to thirteen years in prison on December 19 on charges of initiating a protest against C h i n e s e m i n i n g activities at Naglha Dzamba Mountain in Driru County. Tsokye, from Akchen village in Driru, was incarcerated on December 13 for publicly opposing the re-arrest of the head Lama of the 300 year old Rongpo monastery. Sonam Dorjee, 16, was imprisoned on November 25. While there is no information on what are the charges against him, a Tibetan source stated that on the evening of November 24, Dorjee pasted posters saying “there is no freedom in Tibet” on the walls where Contact

the Chinese work team was conducting “thought education” sessions. A senior monk, Ngawang Jamyang, aged 45, was “beaten to death” while in secret detention. Geshe Ngawang Jamyang’s death happened less than a month after he was arrested on charges of alleged connection with “exile separatist forces.” Three monks from Driru Tarmoe monastery were arrested by Chinese authorities on November 23. While details surrounding their arrests remain uncertain, a source has stated that “[Chinese authorities] fear that instability in Driru could cause a ripple effect in other areas in the TAR. Therefore, they have been engaged in forcing Tibetans in Driru to rigorous ‘Thought Education Campaign’ since September.” Eight Rabten monastery monks have been imprisoned, the details surrounding their arrest are still unknown. Kunchok Choephel, 28, was arrested on November 23 and has since been sentenced to six years in prison on charges of leaking information surrounding the Driru mining protests to “outside separatist forces” allegedly headed by the Dalai Lama. Tenzin Rangdol, 34, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment on charges of communicating with “outside

separatist forces”. Topden, a 30-year old nomad and writer, was sentenced to five years imprisonment for “keeping contacts with the Dalai clique and for engaging in activities to split the nation”. He has written a poem that contains details of the crackdown in Driru County. The identities of six others sentenced are not known due to extreme government censorship and surveillance in Driru and neighboring counties in Nagchu Prefecture. Gonpo Tenzin, 25, was arrested on November 30 in Lhasa on unknown charges. It is suspected that he might have been arrested in connection with his songs calling for the promotion of Tibetan culture, literature and language. He released an album titled No Losar [New Year] for Tibet. Three Tibetans; Bumchok, a 16year boy, and two women, Choedon, 16, and Yangchen, 27, were detained on suspicion of burning the Chinese flag in Driru County. A source said, “Tibetans as young as 10 or 12 are now being detained and beaten in attempts to force them to confess to anti-state activities.” DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

China Threatens to Throw out International Investigators by Harry James The Chinese government is threatening to expel nearly two dozen foreign correspondents from the New York Times and Bloomberg, a New York based international financial and business news agency, following investigations that exposed the private wealth of Chinese leaders. Unless the government changes course, reporters and their dependants will be required to leave the country when their visas expire over the next week or two. China’s government has a history of restrictions with their own press, and until 2007 Beijingb a s e d journalists w e r e barred f r o m Photo: foreignpolicyblogs leaving the capital without prior written permission. This was removed in 2007 as a condition for hosting the Olympics, but also to symbolically show their political

transparency. In May 2012, Journalist Melissa Chan became the first foreign correspondent to be expelled in 13 years, and in November, American journalist Paul Mooney was denied a visa, along with several other reporters. Now, following a Times article calculating the wealth of

Melissa Chan and Paul Mooney Photo: knight.stanford/businessinside

ex-Prime Minister Wen Jiabao’s family, and a similar article in Bloomberg, produced about President Xi Jinping, the government is taking steps to punish both companies: by blocking a Times website aimed at Chinese readers, and ordering financial customers not to buy any new Bloomberg terminals. The ongoing stand-off between the government and the foreign press

ignited a forceful complaint from US Vice President Joe Biden. Biden also met privately with the international investigators and advised that he had warned President Xi that there would be repercussions, but the president had appeared unmoved, insisting that the authorities treated reporters according to Chinese law. Some noted that China has withheld visas in the past as a pressure tactic, before issuing them at the last minute. Progress was made at the end of this month when the government renewed the press cards of several correspondents, allowing them to reapply for their visa. Receiving their press credentials has in theory removed their restrictions, and Bloomberg spokeswoman Belina Tan said, “We have received all of our China press cards and continue to operate as usual.” While some journalists have not yet received their press cards and still face potential expulsion, even those with renewed credentials are not considering themselves safe until they have the visa stamped in their passport.

Indo-China Disputes over Borders and Water Supply Continue by Annapurna Mellor The 32-year dispute over the ChinaIndia border lines continues, despite the agreement signed by the two countries only last month, which was intended to ensure that these contentions do not result in conflict. The main area of continued disagreement is the furthest east Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh which China has renamed “South Tibet”, and has claimed historical ownership to many parts of the state. The term “South Tibet” did not exist before 2006. The issue of whether Tibet belongs to China has not been raised. Indian President Mukerjee aggravated China by visiting Arunachal Pradesh in November, commenting that the area is an important part of North East India, and a core aspect of future relations between India and South East Asia. Contact

The Chinese have commented that they would like to maintain peaceful relations with India despite these boundary issues. In reality, China has been strengthening its forces at the

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang at a media session in Beijing on October 23. Photo: China Daily/Wu Zhiyi

borders and is gradually taking pockets of land from India. It has now laid claim to approximately 640 sq km of land in the North West Indian state 6

of Ladakh and has annexed 38,000 square km of the Aksai Chin plateau which neighbours Arunachal Pradesh. New Delhi continues to surrender to Beijing’s demands, with the recently signed Border Defence Cooperation Agreement (BDCA) containing nothing to stop China’s consistent border incursions. A K Antony, India’s Defence Minister, has admitted that the BDCA does not does not rule out actions on the frontier, and that the primary purpose of the agreement is to give Beijing a clean slate over its breaches of the borderpeace agreements of 1993, 1996, and 2005. China’s refusal to clarify the Line of Actual Control (LAC), and the wording of the agreement, which is open to interpretation, means there is an apparent surrendering by India in these agreements. Despite this, Continued on page 15

DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

European Celebrations by Vanshika Tripathi The European celebrations surrounding the 24th anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize took place on December 10 and were attended by Religion and Culture Kalon Pema Chhinjor, Home Kalon Dolma Gyari, Finance

Kalon Dolma Gyari in Torino with presidents of support groups Photo: CTA

Kalon Tsering Dhondup, DIIR Kalon Dicki Chhoyang and Heath Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchuk in Belgium, Italy, Paris, the Netherlands and Germany respectively. On December 9 in Torino, Italy, Kalon Dolma Gyari delivered a discourse on the Life of Tibetans living in Tibet and in exile and also met the Vice President of the Municipality

Council of Torino City. Additionally, Kalon Dolma Gyari met Mr Valerio Cattaneo and Mr Gianpiero Leo who are the President of the Regional Council of Piedmont Region and President of the Regional Association for Human Rights and Tibet respectively. During this meeting, President Valerio Cattaneo conveyed unity with the people of Tibet and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Kalon Tsering Dhondup in Paris spoke about the requirement for a systematic approach among the French Tibet support groups in order to raise the issue of the Tibetan cause at national and international forums. The Kalon also talked about the significance of retaining the Tibetan language and culture, saying “[the Tibetan culture and language] is inherently inspired by basic human values, such as compassion and warm-heartedness that need to be treasured.” Health Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchuk visited Tibetan residents in the German cities of Munich, Frankfurt and Hamburg. In Munich he spoke about Ama Irmtraut Wäger who raised funds

for 30 years for Tibetans living in exile in India and Nepal. On December 11 the Health Kalon was invited to the German Aid to Tibetans’ Christmas Dinner in Hamburg. Religion and Culture Kalon Pema Chhinjor arrived in Brussels on December 9 where he was received by Mr Ngodup Dorjee, and Mr Thupten Phegyal who is President of the Belgian Tibetan community, along

Kalon Tsering Dhondup with French members of Parliament, Paris. Photo: CTA

with presidents of the local Tibetan associations. Kalon Pema Chhinjor spoke about the political situation inside Tibet, the Middle Way Policy, and the significance of preserving the Tibetan language and culture.

Ending ties with Chinese government funded Institutes by Annapurna Mellor The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) is asking universities and colleges to end ties with institutes subsidised by the Chinese government, calling Chinese-subsidised Confucius Institutes “political arms of the Chinese Government”. These institutes function in a similar way to organisations like the British Council, Alliance France, and the Goethe Institute. However, unlike these organisations Confucius Institutes are often physically placed on university campuses and offer accredited courses in Chinese language and culture. CAUT believes that these institutes sacrifice academic freedom as the Chinese often make demands to restrict the discussion of topics which are deemed controversial. Confucius Institutes appear all Contact

around the world, with 350 centres in over 90 countries, and with particular prominence in the USA, Russia, Korea, the UK and France. The universities receive large amounts of funding from the Chinese government, for example, Stanford University recently received $4 million from a Beijing organisation with close ties to the government. The funding was offered for new programmes on Chinese language and culture, but with the condition that professors refrain from discussing “delicate issues” like Tibet. Dean of Stanford’s School of Humanities and Sciences Richard Saller commented “They said they didn’t want to be embarrassed”. When Stanford refused the money, citing academic freedom, the Chinese officials backed down. The university is now using the money for a professorship in classical Chinese

poetry. However, the current financial crisis has meant that many universities find it hard to turn down offers of funding. Jonathan Lipman, a professor of Chinese history at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, USA, said “The general pattern in very clear. They can say ‘We’ll give you this money, you’ll have a Chinese program, and nobody will talk about Tibet.” James Turk, executive of James Turk CAUT has said Photo: canada.com “Simply put, Confucius Institutes are owned and operated by an authoritarian government and beholden to its politics.” DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

British Prime Minister in China by Annapurna Mellor Early this month British Prime Minister David Cameron visited China on a three day trade mission, in an attempt to mend ties with the country. China had refused UK visits for over a year after the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg met the Dalai Lama in May 2012 in London. The purpose of Cameron’s visit to China was to establish Chinese investment in British nuclear power and a new high speed rail line in the UK, as well as pushing for free trade between China and the EU. The Prime Minister was accompanied by over 100 business people and altogether deals worth £5.6bn were signed. China agreed to meet Cameron following his statement in May 2013 that the UK “does not support Tibetan independence”, and views Tibet as part of China. A source at No10 Downing Street has said “This visit is forwardlooking. It is about the future and how

we want to shift UK-China relations up a gear. We have turned a page on the Dalai Lama issue.” A spokesman for the Free Tibet Campaign has commented that Cameron is not adhering to Britain’s ethical foreign policy; “He raised human rights

David Cameron and Li Keqiang Photo: PA

in Sri Lanka - he must show Britain’s principles are not dependent on hosts’ wealth”. He continued “China is not a rock: it does change and it will change its policy on Tibet if world leaders have the courage to hold it to account. Mr Cameron stands up for human rights in Sri Lanka and the right of self-

determination in the Falklands. This is his chance to show China and the world that Britain stands up for justice everywhere.” Despite Cameron’s failings to approach the human rights issue, he did question the Chinese on their media policy, after a high profile Bloomsberg journalist was banned from the press conference. Cameron commented that this was “completely inappropriate” at such a high profile event. He also challenged the Chinese leadership to do more to open the cybersecurity system in the country, which Chinese Prime Minister Li said he was prepared to discuss. During the visit, the BBC shined the spotlight on Tibet. BBC China correspendent Damien Grammaticas sneaked into the country where he interviewed Tibetans about the real situation under Chinese rule and wrote an in-depth report of his findings covering self-immolations, media blackouts, mining and oppression in Tibet.

Support Free Speech in Tibet Campaign by Palden Choedon The Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), based in Dharamshala, has launched a campaign “Banned Expression: Support Free Speech in Tibet”. The campaign was launched to coincide with the 64th International Human Rights Day on December 10, and the day was dedicated to all the Tibetan writers, singers and intellectuals under the Chinese authorities whose freedom of expression is severely undermined. The campaign is supported by the Voice of Tibet Radio and the launch was hosted by the Tibetan Institute of Contact

Performing Arts. Tsering Tsomo, Director of TCHRD, said “Over a hundred Tibetan writers, poets, artist, intellectuals and cultural figures have been arrested, tortured and imprisoned since the 2008 uprising in Tibet. By daring to refute China’s official narrative of

Crowd gathers at TIPA Photo: Contact/Lha 8

events surrounding the 2008 uprising, these courageous Tibetans represent a significant new challenge to the Chinese authorities.” Since 2011 under the “mass line” policy in Tibet, major surveillance and information blockage has been implemented rigorously around the whole region. TCHRD says the campaign aims to highlight the “fast shrinking space for writers and artists to freely and fearlessly express their views, and to pressure China to respect Tibetan rights”. The campaign launch closed with a concert starring the leading Indian rock band Parikrama. The concert was held at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and attracted a huge turnout of Dharamshala locals and visitors. DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

Lha’s 2013 Annual Report Lha Charitable Trust has just released its 2013 annual report. It has been a successful year, thanks to our many generous supporters such as yourself! Lha’s primary goal is to provide meaningful, multi-levelled social services in Dharamshala, in order to help ease the transition for the Tibetan refugee community. On a daily basis Lha serves over 150 people, hosts between 15 to 25 volunteers and provides approximately 20 different kinds of services including language education, computer courses, vocational training, health and environmental education, a community soup kitchen, clean water, medicine, clothing distribution, and a public library. Lha’s services are open to Tibetan refugees as well as the local Indian population and people from the Himalayan regions. We also provide cultural exchanges for international groups and free coordination for volunteers from around the globe. Lha works hard to operate with minimum administrative and program costs, to produce the maximum output. Your donations help us to improve and increase our services and projects. One of the many projects that donations in 2013 contributed

disadvantaged people daily and 168 accommodations have allowed Lha needy people since its inception. to become more self-sufficient and We also organised nine cultural sustainable – our language, computer exchange groups, in collaboration classes and other daily social with international institutions, and a services are now able to continue to total of 120 students participated in be provided regardless of outside this program. On a different note, we funding. However, to keep up with would like to announce that from 2014 onwards the Lha Tibet Fair Trade (LTFT) company will be open for business. LTFT is a registered company undertaken by the Lha Charitable Trust with headquarters in Dharamshala, India. It aims to improve the standards of living for Tibetan refugees in the Lha’s student exchange group from Tulane University Himalayan regions by poses with His Holiness the Dalai Lama on means of helping them September 26, Dharamshala. to generate income while also ensuring that Lha remains an the growing needs of the community economically sustainable organisation and to maintain the operation of our other social services and special in the future. Lha is also proud to announce that projects such as the soup kitchen, Contact Magazine is now registered eye, dental & health care, clean water, under the Registrar Office of the environmental initiatives and Contact Newspaper, Ministry of Information Magazine, we continue to rely on your & Broadcasting Government of generous donations. India. Recognised by Lonely Planet Since Lha’s founding in 1997 and other international we have continued to be inspired travel resources, Contact by the compassion, dedication and has been a very popular, contributions of generous supporters free publication for and thousands of volunteers from Tibetan issues and around the globe. With your generous support we hope community information in Dharamshala for over to continue providing these invaluable 15 years. It is one of the services to the local community, and longest-running Tibetan to engage in many new initiatives in publications in the area the coming year. For more details, Lha installed its 8th filter water system at the Gamru and provides information updated reports and news please visit village school, a local Indian school, on 6th June 2013. for local residents as well our website. to was the installation of five brand as international visitors. Please turn to page 16 for some new water filtration systems in five Starting from January 2014, we will quick facts about Lha’s successes schools, serving around 2000 people also be extending our successful eye- during 2013 and we hope for continued who are now using pure clean water care and dental programs from adults success in 2014! Thank you once for both their drinking and cooking in the community to school children as again for your unwavering support; needs. In addition, donations helped we have found this is a much needed we could not have achieved these support Lha’s soup kitchen to bring area of expansion. things without you, the volunteers, healthy food to those in need. The The donations from volunteers and of course the dedication of the kitchen serves 40-50 financially and exchange groups staying in Lha’s students and the community. Continued on page 16

Contact

DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

Tibetan Headlines Dec 28: Early Release Three Tibetans; Yarphel, 42, a monk from a monastery in Rebkong, Lhamo, 22, from Khyinga town, and Rinchen Tsering from Chone County, have been released before completion of their jail sentences. They were released from prisons that China Yarphel in detention has recently shut down. Yarphel and Lhamo had been arrested following alleged involvement in selfimmolations, and Rinchen for flying the Tibetan flag. Dec 27: Rallying for Release China has detained 16 Tibetans in Nangchen County, Yushu Prefecture for participating in a mass protest calling for the release of Khenpo Kartse, a popular Tibetan religious leader. The 38 year old was Khenpo Kartse actively involved in social work and promoting Tibetan national and cultural identity. Dec 26: Leadership Workshop Over 300 students from 31 Tibetan schools across India and Nepal attended a leadership workshop at the Lower TCV School in Dharamshala. The seven-day workshop was inaugurated by Sikyong Lobsang Sangay. Dec 25: Dalai Lama in Bylakuppe His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived at Sera Monastery in Bylakukke Tibetan Settlement in South India to continue his teachings on the 18 Great Stages of the Path (Lam Rim) Commentaries. About 30,000 people are attending the 10-day teachings. Dec 23: Teaching for Russians At the teachings, the Dalai Lama said, “Warm-heartedness is the root of Contact

happiness and it’s the basis of secular ethics. This is not about the next life, Nirvana, God or the Buddha; it’s about how to be happy in this life, now.” Over

Tibetans greet His Holiness upon his arrival in Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement.

1300 Russian Buddhists and around 140 others attended the teachings, which were in New Delhi. Dec 18: French Support French lawmakers Deputy JeanPactrick Gille and Deputy Neol Mamere presented a Tibet resolution in the French Parliament, appealing to them to “restart dialogue between the Chinese authorities and the representatives of the Tibetan government in exile”. Dec 17: Arrests Continue in Golok Police in Pema County in Golok arrested Dhelo Kyab and Choepa Kyab, both monks from Jonong Akyong Monastery, on December 9. Yangtso, a teacher in Chokri village, was fired from her job after authorities found pictures of self-immolator Tsering Gyal and texts requesting for prayers in her WeChat App. She is undergoing treatment in hospital for injuries she sustained at the hands of the police. Dec 16: Free Jailed Singers Free Tibet, a London-based advocacy group, has launched a campaign to free eight Tibetan singers; Lolo, Kalsang Yarphel, Pema Tinley, Chakdor, Shawo Tashi, Ugyen Tenzin, Achol Phulshung and Choksal, all taken in custody over the last two years. Trinley Ts e k a r a n d Gonpo Tenzin, arrested last month, will be included in the campaign. 10

Dec 14: Students’ Protest March Around 250 Tibetan students from Sherab Gatsel Lobling, the Tibetan transit school, staged a mute protest march in solidarity with Tibetans.

Marching for eight kilometres, they gathered at the Martyrs’ memorial near Tsuglakhang and said prayers, and dedicated poems to the selfimmolators. Dec 10: Youth Protest Around ten Tibetans from Delhi colleges protested in front of the Chinese Embassy on the eve of International Human Rights Day, demanding that the Chinese government surrender Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao and end the repressive occupation of Tibet and to stop its repression in Driru. Police arrested the students temporarily. Dec 6: Rinpoche’s Reincarnation The reincarnation of His Eminence Penor Rinpoche has been found, according to his monastery Namdrol Ling in Karnataka. He was found at a sacred location near Lhasa in Tibet, based on a “prophecy letter” sent by Jadrel Rinpoche and visions of Tulku Thubten Palzang Rinpoche. The enthronement ceremony will take place in Tibet on July 31, 2014. Dec 5: Monk Arrested in Lhasa A Tibetan monk from the Shelkar Choede Monastery in Dhingri was arrested in Lhasa on November 29 for possessing an image of the Tibetan national flag on his cell phone. Migmar was arrested during a routine frisking of Tibetans by Lhasa Police. DECEMBER 2013

news & issues

International Headlines Dec 28: Ship Icebound A Chinese icebreaker has failed to reach the Academic Shokalskiy, the Russian ship trapped in dense pack ice in East Antarctica since Christmas Day. It has 74 people on board and is being used by the Australasian Antarctic Expedition to follow explorer Douglas Mawson’s route. Dec 27: Spanish Court Reforms Spanish newspaper El Pais has reported that the Government plans a further reform of Spanish law in order to limit the application of universal jurisdiction. This follows the order to issue arrest warrants for five Chinese leaders for their policies in Tibet. Dec 25: Journalist Attacked Tetiana Chornovol, a civic activist and journalist, was beaten by a group of men outside Kiev. Protests have erupted in Ukraine calling for closer economic ties with Europe instead of Russia. Dec 24: Mass Grave Found A mass grave of 75 bodies has been found by UN Human Rights Officers in Unity State, South Sudan. It is believed that two other mass graves could be present in Juba. The UN has warned that political and military rebels could be held accountable for the ethnic violence. Dec 21: Most Dangerous Country A total of 126 journalists and other media workers around the world have died this year on the job - 19 of them in Syria, making it the most dangerous country for media in 2013, said the International News Safety Institute. Dec 20: New Economic Corridor India has approved the building of an economic corridor f r o m Kunming c i t y , Yu n n a n province in China to Kolkata. The multi-modal Contact

corridor will be the first expressway between India and China which will pass through Myanmar and Bangladesh, and follows five years of discussion between the four countries. Dec 19: Sentenced to Death A fast-track court in Bangladesh has sentenced eight students to death and 13 others to life imprisonment for killing tailor Bishwajit Das a year ago. The students are activists of the Bangladesh Chhatra League. Two of the death penalty convicts and 11 of those who were sentenced to life have absconded and were tried in absentia. Dec 18: Diplomat’s Arrest Row The arrest of Devyani Khobragade, an Indian diplomat in New York, has angered India who has ordered a series of reprisals against the US. Khobragade’s arrest involves charges of visa fraud. Indian media reports said she had been “subjected to a humiliating strip search and kept in a cell with drug addicts”. Dec 17: Missile Concerns Russia’s armed forces have allegedly moved nuclear-capable Iskander-M missiles closer to Europe’s borders in response to the US-led deployment of a disputed air defense shield. Lithuania and Poland have issued statements of concern. Russia has not confirmed the report but insists it has every right to station missiles in the region. Dec 15: Apple Obeys Order Apple has removed an anti-censorship application in China on orders from Beijing. The FreeWeibo app allows users to read sensitive posts censored and removed by the government on Sino Weibo, a Chinese equivalent to Twitter. “Apple’s image of being a hip and trendy company is eroding.. because of actions like these,” a co-founder of FreeWeibo said in a report.

Dec 13: Leader’s Uncle Executed Jang Song Thaek, the uncle of North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un, was executed on Thursday for attempting to overthrow the government. He was accused of “wild ambition to grab the supreme power”. The US has said that this highlights the “extreme brutality of the North Korean regime”. Dec 12: Beijing Mass Suicide Thirteen activists who had been forced from their homes in Wuhan and had not received compensation, staged a mass suicide by drinking pesticide and wrote their individual stories on papers. The papers were torn up by police. Dec 9: Singapore Rioting Singapore has seen the first violent riot in 30 years, sparked by the death of an Indian knocked down by a private bus. The protest in the district of Little India involved around 400 people, and 18 police officers were hurt. 27 suspects of South Asian origin have been arrested. Dec 6: World Mourns Mandela Nelson Mandela has died aged 95 after a long battle with illness. Tributes have been coming in from around the world as world leaders, South Africans and people everywhere mourn the death

of South Africa’s first black president. President Zuma commented “Our nation has lost its greatest son”. Expressing his condolences, the Dalai Lama said “He lived a meaningful life”. DECEMBER 2013

around town

Charities and Organisations

Central Tibetan Administration

The CTA serves in Dharamshala as the government 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.net LOCATION: Dharamshala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-222218 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pm EMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

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.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The Tibetan Youth Congress 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 -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:president@tibetanyouthcongress.org, tyc@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association

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

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.in LOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Contact

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

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.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong Dharamshala - 176215 PHONE: 98822-55047 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:005:00pm. Closed 2nd and 4th Sat. every month EMAIL: office@ltwa.net

Delek Hospital

Delek 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, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital) LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamshala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily EMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Sambhota Tibetan Schools Society

The 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.org LOCATION: Session Road, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stsa1999@yahoo.co.in

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organisation 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.org

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

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

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.org LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 01892-220992 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

(Ex Political Prisoners Association) Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

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.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215 PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Tibet Charity

Tibet 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.in LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in, tibccharity@gmail. com

DECEMBER 2013

around town

Charities and Organisations

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 lesson 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.org LOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod Ganj Dharamshala-176219 PHONE: 01892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

KUNPHEN Centre for Substance Dependence HIV/AIDS&HRD

KUNPHEN is an Open door Policy drop in Centre providing support, advice, advocacy, counseling, group and alternative healing therapies to those in the Tibetan community suffering from addiction issues. Volunteers needed to carry out action plans. WEB: www.kunphen.org LOCATION: Near Delek Clinic, Bagsunag road, P.O Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219 PHONE: 01892-220565 / 985716806 EMAIL: kunphen@mail.com

Tibetan Centre Resolution (TCCR)

for

Conflict

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a nonprofit, 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.org LOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-226627 EMAIL: tccroffice@yahoo.com

Rogpa Baby Care Centre

The 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.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9816659549 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8am-12pm and 1- 5pm EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Gamru Village School

Gamru 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.com LOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215 PHONE: 9816105554

Contact

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 Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

executive_directoranec@yahoo.com

National Democratic Party of Tibet

The 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.org LOCATION: Dharamshala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com PHONE: 9882787633

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

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 for volunteers. WEB: www.anec.org.in LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com,

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.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com

Women’s Team

Volunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender. EMAIL: jitenderje@gmail.com PHONE: 9817105035 / 08894435595

BUS SCHEDULE * Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure. Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840) Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165) *from Dharamshala Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm Manali: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamshala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75) Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235)*from 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-6pm, daily Phone: 224903 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS

A private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTA Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, MonSat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. Phone: 222 053,223 381

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

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034 Tourism Office: 01892-23107 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

McLeod Ganj Post Office Location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 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

DECEMBER 2013

activities and tourist info Upcoming Events Jan 6-7: Ngan-pa Gu-zom or the “Nine bad omens” Jan 26: Republic Day of India Mar 2: Losar - Tibetan New Year

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works & Archives WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH Karmapa WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 01892-235307

YOGA & REIKI Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11 HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

MASSAGE Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & Treatment LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga Center

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd. HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PM PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Nature Cure Health Club

Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

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

Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

Traditional Thai Massage

LOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com

Contact

MEDITATION

LANGUAGES

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

Tibetan Language Class

Tushita Meditation Center

Rita Thakur Hindi Classes

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Vipassana Meditation

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01892-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center

LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992 See ad on pg 3. LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with Sunil

LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan Language

LOCATION: The Tibetan Library See Buddhist Philosophy Listing

WEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.php LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling Nunnery PHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502 EMAIL: Yogarishi2001@yahoo.co.in

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

School of Life and Spirituality

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

Meditation and teachers’ training LOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, please all before coming WEB: web: www.devom.org PHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310 EMAIL: dev@devom.org

COOKING Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms. Rita Kapoor LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592 06586

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking Classes

LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10:00am - 4:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947 HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post office HOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken

Location: Esukhia Office,Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Road, Dharamshala Web: www.esukhia.org Phone: 8679502538 / 9882004965 E- mail- contact@esukhia.org

ART & MUSeums Tibet Museum

LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)

WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Kangra Art Museum

LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

Naam Art Gallery

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamshala PHONE: 9816043708

Form Gallery

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis Cafe PHONE: 8894-060602 HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

DECEMBER 2013

activities & services HEALTH SERVICES

Reflections of a Volunteer Finding Peace and More

Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday PHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106 EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the the Club House HOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily PHONE: 8894492837 EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health Clinic

LOCATION: Main Square HOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 941-815-5795 EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-226138 / 223113 EMAIL: info@mentsekhang.org

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 94181-30119 / 97363-33888 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital

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

Ayuskam Health Care

WEB: www.ayuskama.com LOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod Ganj PHONE: 973-621-1210

Name: Apurva Kashyap Job at Lha: English teacher/contibuting writer When I first packed my bags and decided to leave Delhi in search of the clichéd “peace” that we often find our hearts devoid of, I had no idea I’d get so much more than that. On my first day at Lha, I was welcomed by the ever smiling Rabsel with a cheerful, “Hello Ji”. Having met Dukthen, Jane and Rabsel, I knew I was in the right place to begin with. They’re nothing less than heroes for me, working so hard to make a difference in the lives of others. At first, it felt strange to stand before a group of adult Tibetans trying to make sense. I had never been a teacher before. But strangely, I wasn’t nervous at all, unlike all the other times when I spoke before an audience. The simplicity and dedication of my students humbled me. They seemed grateful for whatever I had to offer to them. I learnt from them, much more than I taught them. When I was finally ready to leave, I wished that my lovely students make it in the big bad world, with their head held high with pride. Mcleod Ganj has been an unforgettable experience for me. My entire life shrunk to an amazing roller coaster ride of memories. Being an Indian and having never travelled

abroad, it was amazing for me to see so many people from different countries living together without barriers. It was here that I first saw the lives of Tibetans from up close, learned about their culture, their struggle. It was here that I saw snow for the first time, lost my heart to a wonderful man, became friends for life with a girl whose country I couldn’t easily locate on the globe, did paragliding and saw the world from a different angle, danced in a club in a sweatshirt and sports shoes. The hangover of Mcleod Ganj is such that I often find myself humming “Om Mani Padme Hum” and sipping ginger lemon honey tea. I deeply appreciate the work Lha is doing for the Tibetan community, and I strongly believe that education is the strongest way to fight oppression. I hope to return to Mcleod Ganj someday, with more perseverance, time and knowledge to offer. Thujeche! “Once a year, go some place you’ve never been before” - Dalai Lama

Indo-China Disputes over Borders and Water Supply Continue

Continued from page 6

Indian President Pranab Mukerjee has expressed his willingness to turn to military action if necessary, commenting “We do not have any tall ambition in increasing our borders, but at the same time we zealously need to protect our territorial integrity. Our armed forces give us the confidence in the nation’s ability to face any aggression and safeguard its interests”. Alongside increasing tensions regarding Arunachal Pradesh, the two developing powers have also been Contact

pursuing an on-going water dispute as China plans to build four dams on the Brahmaputra river, or Yarlung Tsangpo as it is known in Tibet, which supplies water to India and neighbouring Bangladesh. The agreement signed on these issues shows very little clarity or agreement between the two nations and asserts no control over China for its management of the water. The agreement expresses India’s “appreciation” to China for selling flooding data. (India supplies the

same data to downstream Bangladesh and Pakistan for free.) Li Zeifei, an influential Chinese scholar, has commented that it is hypocritical of India to attempt to stop the building of dams in Tibet, saying that India herself has built many dams in Arunachal Pradesh to supply surplus water to areas of need without regard for Bangladesh which lies further down the waterline. The building of dams in this region has also helped India put its territorial mark on the disputed state. DECEMBER 2013

news and issues Continued from page 9

Lha’s 2013 Annual Report

IMPORTANT INITIATIVES IN 2013 • 3120 students attended language classes on a monthly basis • 806 new students enrolled for language classes • 234 students attended Beginner and Intermediate computer classes • Over 1766 free articles of clothing were distributed to both the Tibetan and local Indian communities • 40-50 financially disadvantaged people ate daily at the Lha community kitchen, which provides clean water and nutritious meals. • 108 Tibetan refugees received free eye examinations, and 80 were provided with free glasses • Organised a mass clean-up program in Mcleod Ganj alongside the Tibetan Settlement office • Provided recommendation letters for 204 students. The Indian Government requires letters from an educational institution as proof from newly arrived refugees that have registered as relocating to India for educational opportunities • Worked with 619 new volunteers, who donated their valuable time and energy • Organised Cultural Exchange Programs for 9 University and High School Groups from the USA, France and Mexico, with 120 participants

• Held free acupuncture treatment at Jampaling elder peoples home • Organised massage therapy training • 8400 free copies of Contact Magazine distributed and published

Meals being served at Lha Soup Kitchen Photo: Lha

(700-1000 copies published every month). • Installation of five brand new water filtration systems in five schools, serving around 2000 people with pure clean water for both their drinking and cooking needs. QUICK FACTS FROM 2003 TO 2013 • Over 5,807 volunteers from 40 different countries have contributed to Lha’s work. • Approximately 909 students from international education institutes

participated in the organised cultural exchange program • 33,000 free books were distributed to Tibetan and local Indian schools and libraries • More than 30,779 articles of clothing were collected and distributed through the donation center • 9,525 students have benefited from our language courses • 2,556 students have benefited from our computer and IT workshops • 296 free eye check-ups and glasses provided for more than 226 people • 169 people have graduated from Lha’s massage course • 67 people have graduated from Lha’s photography course • The Lha Community Soup Kitchen has fed between 40-50 financially disadvantaged people daily, and 168 have benefited since its opening in July, 2011 • Installation of nine brand new water filtration systems in nine schools, serving around 4000 people with pure clean water for both their drinking and cooking needs. • Provided recommendation letters for 368 students. The Indian Government requires letters from an educational institution as proof from newly arrived refugees that have registered as relocating to India for educational opportunities.

All the staff at Lha and Contact wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year!!! May all sentient beings in the world find peace, joy and happiness. HAPPY 2014 Contact

DECEMBER 2013