Contact January 2013 by Lha Charitable Trust

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

www.contactmagazine.net 31 January 2013

Volume: XV Issue: 1

contact Magazine A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information

Tibetan Self-Immolations in 2013

We are saddened to report the following self-immolations that have taken place since the beginning of January. 24 Jan: Jigjey Kyab, 17, was found dead on 19 Jan, his body doused with kerosene and lighters in his hand in the Luchu region of eastern Tibet. He apparently died before he could set himself on fire, having consumed poison to ensure that he didn’t fall into the hands of the Chinese authorities alive. In a note Jigjey Kyab called on Tibetans to rise up. 22 Jan: Kunchok Kyab, 26, set himself on fire in the Bora region of Labrang, eastern Tibet in an apparent protest against China’s continued occupation of Tibet. He passed away in his fiery protest and the Chinese authorities whisked away his body to an undisclosed location. He is survived by his wife and an infant son. 18 Jan: Tsering Phuntsok (Dupchok), 28, set himself on fire around 3:15 pm at Khyungchu, Ngaba, in an apparent protest against China’s repressive policies in Tibet. He died on the spot and Chinese security Continued on page 20

The Fire is Still Raging in Tibet

by Palden Choedon Candle lit vigils have been held in the evenings here in McLeod Ganj as we learn fresh news from Tibet of more self-immolations. As the number of known self-immolations nears 100, there seems to be no way to douse the fire raging in Tibet as it continues to cry for freedom and the return of His Holiness. One teenager, Jigjey Kyab, was found dead with his body doused with kerosene and lighters in his hand. He had reportedly consumed poison prior to his self-immolation protest to ensure that he didn’t fall into the hands of the Chinese authorities alive. In earlier instances, surviving Tibetan self-immolators have suffered amputations of all limbs, verbal abuse, interrogations, and maltreatment by doctors and Chinese officials at the hospitals. In a last note left by his bedside, which was later found by his family members, Jigjey Kyab has called on Tibetans to rise up: “I pray that my aspirations will be fulfilled. If you are your mother’s son - rise up. Sons of the Land of Snows - rise up. Singers of the Snow Land - rise up. May His Holiness the Dalai Lama live for thousands of aeons. My respect to the white snow lion (symbol of Tibet). My prayers for happiness in Tibet.” Following Kunchok Kyab’s selfimolation at Bora, Ladangin in eastern Tibet’s Amdo region, heavy security has been deployed in the area and scores of monks from Bora monastery have been detained by Chinese security officials. A local Chinese court in Barkham in eastern Tibet’s Ngaba region has

sentenced four monks from Tsodun Kirti monastery to prison terms ranging from 2 –10 years.The reasons for their arrest were not revealed at the time of their detention by the Chinese authorities. Kirti monastery has been the hotbed of Tibetan self-immolations against brutal Chinese policies and the monastery has been under strict Chinese surveillance for the last two years. Also in Ngaba, China has tried two Tibetans for intentional homicide for having allegedly incited other Tibetans

Jigjey Kyab’s letter

to self-immolate. It was reported that the two were guilty of instigating eight Tibetans to self-immolate. Chinese state media reports said that one was a monk of Kirti Monastery and used his position and influence to encourage others to self-immolate, and alleged that he acted in concert with “some key figures with the media liaison team – a ‘Tibet independence’ organization of the Dalai Lama group, and he continuously sent the latter information about incidents of self-immolation.” The harsh measures provide an early indication that the country’s new leadership is not easing up on Tibet. Since the start of self-immolations in January this year, and despite repeated international calls for restraint and Continued on page 4

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:

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 Dharamsala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. 40 to50 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 lowcost 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 resaurant industry.

Sponsor an Issue of Contact Magazine! If you would like to sponsor an issue of Contact Magazine, please contact us. This space would be used to present your photo, profile, and any message you want to share with the community and visitors. We will thank you for many lifetimes! Contact Magazine

Contact Magazine is a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust. It contains Tibetan issues, international news and local information that aspires to bring the West and East together in a meaningful and beneficial way. 700 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamsala area and (in the future) in Delhi, Rishikesh, Manali, Goa, and various diplomatic missions to 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 Please Note: The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff. If you would like to contact Contact, call Lobsang Rabsel at 981-615-5523 or the Lha office at Temple Road (ph. 01892-220992). All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@contactmagazine.net Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops. JANUARY 2013

about lha & contact

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

Exchange Student Group from Mexico

Contact Magazine Editor Jenny James Sub-Editor Palden Choedon Assistant Tenzin Younten Layout Design Tamdin Yangzom Circulation Manager Lobsang Rabsel Published by Lha Charitable Trust Web: www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net Phone: 91(0)1892-220992 Email: contact@contactmagazine.net Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamsala Phone: 222390

In December we hosted a group of Mexican students from Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey Campus Santa Fe for a cultural exchange program. We organised many different activities for them, introducing them to the Tibetan refugee community and to Tibetan Buddhism and the political situation. They went on visits to the Tibetan Government offices, Tibetan Library, Norbu Lingka, Tibetan Childrens Village and Men Tsee Khang We made sure there was time out to have fun, and to hang out in town, as well as arranging talks from the

Director of The Library of Tibetan Work and Archives, and the Political leader of the Tibetan people, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay. We introduced them to Members of Parliament and the Central Tibetan Administration staff, and to representatives of different NGOs in McLeod Ganj. The different roles and objectives of the NGOs enabled us to place every student with an NGO with their own interest. The students were enthusiastic about learning something new and it was amazing to see the enthusiasm and energy on both sides as they experienced our different cultures.

Lha Traveler Services & Volunteer Opportunities

Classes

MASSAGE Complete physical and mental relaxation and stress reduction with revitalizing techniques of deep tissue and acupressure with a professional therapist. 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 color for individuals and small groups with a qualified artist. YOGA For sound physical, mental and emotional development we offer Sivananda and Hatha yoga for beginners with a qualified teacher for small groups. Contact Magazine

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(Mon-Sat:9:00am-12:00pm&1:00-5:00pm)

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Lha offers you the opportunity to share (0) 1892-220992 your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on *All donations and fees from Lha experience working with a social work classes and services directly benefit organization. Lha volunteers will develop Lha community social work projects. friendships, learn about issues facing the www.lhasocialwork.org Tibetan refugee community, and become www.contactmagazine.net immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. www.tibetnature.net 3

JANUARY 2013

news & issues

Tibetan Schools transfer to Central Tibetan Administration by Zalina Gamat The Department of Education (DoE) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has welcomed an announcement made by India’s Union Cabinet on 10 January 2013, to approve the transfer of schools run by the Central Tibetan School Association (CTSA) to the DoE of the CTA, or any society run by the same over a three year period. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Finance Minister P. Chidambaram. The schools will continue to receive financial support from the Indian Government. The CTA will be provided Rs. 43 crore per annum, and an annual increment of 5% for the running of these schools. Kyishong Gangchen, Secretary of the Tibetan DoE, welcomed the decision and pledged, “to make every effort to realize the vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the late Prime Minister, Pandit Nehru to continued from page 1

Education Secretary Ngodup Tsering (1st L) at the launch of the department’s EnglishTibetan Terminology in Dharamsala

Secondary Education (CBSE), with the only change in structure being the addition of Tibetan teachers to teach Tibetan language. The Indian teaching and non-teaching staff will be given the option to continue, or to transfer to Indian schools.

The CTSA was started in 1961 to establish and run schools for the children of Tibetan refugees, while preserving Tibetan culture and heritage. However, concerned about the gradual deterioration in the quality of education and academic performance, the Tibetan government mooted a proposal for the transfer of these schools from the Indian government to the CTA in 2010. The then Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, following a meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, had recommended the transfer of these schools to the Human Resources Development ministry. The approval for the transfer of the schools comes from the fact that the CTA has done a reasonably good job of managing the schools under its own administration with over 17,000 students. The results of the CTA administered schools have also been consistently higher than those managed by the CTSA.

The Fire is Still Raging in Tibet

reconsideration on their policies, the Chinese authorities are intensifying their treatment towards Tibetans. Murder charges are threatened for anyone caught helping or inciting self-immolators, and people offering condolence and prayers to the self-immolators are penalised. Suicide has been criminalised, and protestors’ friends are arrested. In a communications crackdown,

thousands of satellite TVs have been confiscated in the regions where selfimmolations are taking place. In Tongren County, more than 1,800 satellite TV dishes were seized and destroyed. Many local newspapers have run commentaries condemning the Dalai Contact Magazine

nurture a generation of Tibetan youth having sound modern as well as traditional education.” The transfer will benefit 2,200 residential students and 6,455 day scholars studying in 71 schools spread across India, with a better focus on their needs. The schools will continue to be affiliated to the Central Board of

Lama and decrying what they described as the ‘slaughter of Life’, inventing the term ‘The Dalai Clique’ and accusing him of‘Splittist activities’. In Gansu province of western Tibet, seven Tibetan people were arrested for helping a fellow villager self-immolate in October last year. The Chinese police said investigations showed that two of the men were members of the Dharamsala-based Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), which they said had “masterminded” the protest. The TYC said that Chinese authorities were making “baseless accusations” about the group, and that the two people named were not members. Chinese authorities have also targeted the foreign press: there are reports of a New York Times journalist,and an undercover journalist from Australia, being thrown out ofTibet. “Behind us is fear, resentment and tragedy, along with government policies showing no sign of winning over Tibetans”, the NY 4

Times reporter summed up after being escorted out of Tibet. Prayer services to express solidarity with the Tibetans who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet have been held at the main Temple in McLeod Ganj. Addressing a prayer service, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay appealed to all Tibetans to “strengthen and amplify” solidarity campaigns. H.H. the Dalai Lama has told the

world media that ‘the unbearable situation in Tibet is the cause of these unfortunate events. These are symptoms of fear, hard line suppressive policy practice by China in Tibet. The time has come for China to think more realistically’. JANUARY 2013

news & issues

‘Solidarity’ Lobbies Indian Parliament by Zalina Gamat A Tibet resolution may be proposed and even passed in the Indian Parliament, thanks to lobbying by Central Tibetan Adminsitration parliamentary delegations in several Indian states during the month of January, according to the Tibetan Review. In the largest and most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, Public Works Department minister Mr Shivpal Singh Yadav pledged to raise the issue in Parliament in a letter written to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In West Bengal, the speaker of the state assembly, Mr Biman Banerjee, advised the Tibetan delegation to seek an ‘All-Party Parliamentary resolution on the crisis in Tibet’. In New Delhi, the Indian parliamentarians expressed solidarity and assured unwavering support for Tibet. The ‘Solidarity with Tibet’campaign is a joint initiative of the Kashag (Cabinet) and Parliament-in-exile of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), with the objective to raise awareness about the current Tibetan crisis in view of the self-immolations which are now nearing 100 in number,

North Zone:

Solidarity rally in Patna

several Indian states during January. In each state, the delegations held meetings with important leaders and dignitaries, including Chief Ministers, Governors, leaders of the opposition, members of the legislative assembly, eminent scholars and spiritual heads. They also held press conferences, public rallies and candle-lit vigils in each state, that were well-attended by both local Tibetans and Indian supporters. The statements made by the Indian heads of state in response has been very positive and encouraging, with several important

dignitaries expressing a deep concern for the Tibetan cause, and pledging their support. At the time of writing this article, delegations have already visited J & K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal, West Bengal, Odisha, Chattisgarh, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Pondicherry and Chennai. In the second leg of the campaign they will visit Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland, Panaji, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Jaipur. The Parliamentary lobbying will be followed by a mass rally in Delhi. An expected 5,000 Tibetans, and around 1,500 Indian supporters will converge from all over India, Nepal and Bhutan for the ‘Tibetan People’s Solidarity Campaign.’ Conforming with resolutions arrived at under Article 59 of the Tibetan charter, the Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile is jointly organising a 4-day mass rally, starting on 30 January, which aims to express solidarity with the supreme sacrifices of Tibetans inside Tibet, while calling for urgent diplomatic intervention to end the crisis inside Tibet.

Indian Parliament Statements

Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah: ‘The leaders of the Chinese government very well know that the struggle carried on by His Holiness the Dalai Lama is for autonomy in Tibet. Presently, Hong Kong and Macau enjoy a special autonomous status under the Chinese rule and I find China’s reluctance on Tibet hard to understand.’ The former Chief minister of Bihar Mr. Lalu Prasad Yadav expressed his support for the Tibetan cause and urged the Tibetans to ‘never stop until Tibetans get their homeland back.’ The Chief Minister of HP expressed his deep concern over the critical situation inside Tibet and vouched his support for Tibet and the welfare of the Tibetan people. Contact Magazine

and to garner international support. As part of this initiative, three parliamentary delegations of 6 MPs each, divided into North, North-East and South Zones, have been visiting

North East Zone:

Tibetan parliamentary delegation with Gov MC Bhandare

Governor of the State of Odisha Shri Murli Chandrakant Bhandare expressed anguish over ‘the prolonged suffering the Tibetans inside Tibet are subjected to by the erroneous State policies.’ Chattisgarh Chief Minister reiterated his party’s “resolute commitment to backing the Tibetan cause’. 5

South Zone:

The Hon Governor of the Karnataka State Mr. H.R. Bhardwaj, said ‘His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a highly compassionate person and a messenger of world peace. His presence is a strength for us and his followers are like our brothers and sisters. It is very tragic that Tibetans have to self-immolate for their basic human rights’. Kerala Chief Minister Sri Oommen Chandy assured the delegates that ‘Despite political limitations, our full support, love and affections are with the Tibetans. You are fighting for a good cause’. The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh assured delegates that he will forward a memorandum to the Central Government in New Delhi. JANUARY 2013

news & issues

Chinese Reporters Strike by Amanda Parr Guangdong province, holding placards publishing the article in a small section One of China’s most respected displaying impassioned calls for in the back pages of the paper. and liberal newspapers is back on the reform, such as “Let’s chase our dreams It has been reported that the strike shelves after a strike sparked by an act together. Go Southern Weekly!” and and related protests have ended due to of government censorship put China’s “Get rid of censorship. The Chinese mutual agreements, including a promise suppressed freedom of expression back people want freedom!” by officials to relax some control of the in the international press. Although the spotlight, and return of the Southern incited speculation Weekly suggests on what kind of a truce between political reform, if the newspaper and any, can be expected government, it is from China’s new unclear if there has leadership. actually been a fair At the start of resolution to the the New Year, a conflict, and reliable Southern Weekly reform. The first editorial entitled printing after the “China’s Dream, newspaper’s return the Dream of made no direct Constitutionalism”, mention of the Some of the protesters carried banners that read: “We want press freedom, d e m a n d i n g conflict, but did publish constitutionalism and democracy” government reform a vague narrative and increased freedom was deleted The protest also attracted pro- about how sometimes mistakes are from the newspaper by propaganda communist flag wavers, wielding photos made, seemingly minimalising the officials, and replaced with a pro- of Mao Zedong and signs referring to incident. Attempted communication government tribute. This prompted the Southern Weekly and its supporters by many outside news sources has gone a staff strike and citizen protests, and as “traitors”. The protesters clashed unanswered by the Southern Weekly marked the first time in history, aside regularly, leading to some violence and its parent company. Editorial staff from the Tiananmen Square protests in have not provided any comment as they 1989, that the government’s control of have been instructed not to discuss the the press has been publicly challenged. matter with foreign media. The strike initiated dispute among This incident has sparked speculation the media, government officials, and on what kind of stance on reform Xi zealous citizens. Jinping will adopt when he is initiated In response to the government fully into his new leadership role editing, two letters of protest were this coming March. Jinping’s rise to written by Southern Weekly’s most power has given many citizens hope prominent members of staff demanding for political liberalization and more the resignation of Tuo Zhen, the head openness to multi-party involvement. of the province’s “propaganda police” Knowing that this is his first test, who monitor the media, and often edit between the opposing sides and scuffles Jinping has criticized the actions of material to favour the government with the police. the propaganda authorities and although agenda. This challenge to authority The conflict even spread to the capital, no action has yet been taken, there are resulted in the Southern Weekly’s Beijing, when the head of another major rumours that the offending official, Tuo microblog being hijacked and edited by newspaper, the Global Times, refused to Zhen, will be removed from his position. propaganda authorities, and all online print a government produced editorial Jinping also reportedly gave orders to discussion of the controversy was that demonized the Southern Weekly not punish the striking journalists or blocked on social media sites. Southern for its attempt to challenge media demonstrators. However, the ruling Weekly employees responded with a censorship, and declared that China party has also demonstrated in this strike and this inspired citizen protests. was not ready for this kind of freedom incident that it is not ready to allow Vehement pro-reformists demonstrated of the press. After heavy pressure from freedom of the press, so the jury is still outside the newspaper headquarters government officials, the newspaper out regarding the future of censorship in Guangzhou, in the progressive finally compromised, reluctantly, by in China. Contact Magazine

JANUARY 2013

news & issues

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Teachings in January

by Tenzin Younten

His Holiness the 14thDalai Lama has been delivering a full programme of teachings and meetings during January, here in India. He took part in the conference: Mind and Life XXVI: ‘Mind, Brain and Matter - Critical Conversations Between Buddhist Thought and Science’, held from January 17-22 at the Drepung Lachi Monastery in Mundgod Tibetan settlement, Karnataka state, where there were extensive discussions with some of the world’s top scientists and philosophers on topics ranging from quantum physics to neuroscience to Buddhist and Western understanding of consciousness. The six-day event brought together 20 of the world’s foremost scientists and philosophers with His Holiness and other senior Tibetan scholars in the attendance of several thousand monks and nuns from numerous Tibetan monastic centres of learning. The conference addressed questions of mutual interest, and challenges such as the fundamental nature of our physical world, the problem of consciousness, the nature and workings of our mind, and the interface of contemplative practice and scientific research. It provided an opportunity to study the classical Buddhist philosophical methods of inquiry as well as topics in quantum physics, neuroscience, and Buddhist and contemporary Western views of consciousness. The

conference also offered an educational forum, whereby monastic students can learn about the historical development of science, and how science has come to shape the way we understand our world. The conference was jointly organised by Mind and Life Institute, EmoryTibet Science Initiative, and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. Earlier in January, His Holiness met a group of Vietnamese Buddhists at

His Holiness at Mind and Life

the Buddha Smriti Park, and attended the International Buddhist Sangha conference in Patna. Following this, He gave a four day teaching at Sarnath, near the Central University of Tibetan Studies, Utter Pradesh, based on Shantideva’s ‘A Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life’ (Chodjung), attended by many thousands of people. Bodhisattva vows were taken, and prayers said for His Holiness’s long life to which he responded: “For as long

as I am able to serve, I aspire to live long”. On the last day of his teaching, he said, “Vasubhandu has divided the buddha’s teaching into the scriptural and the experiential and we’ll be able to preserve it if we engage in study and practice, which involves hearing the teaching explained and thinking it over again and again, then meditating on what you’ve understood.” On 11 January, His Holiness addressed the Central University for Tibetan Studies, on the theme of ‘Seeing Jesus and the Buddha as teachers, and the role of the disciple’. He also visited the Alice Project School, and the Inaugurates Conference on ‘Buddhism and Society’ at Sarnath. In Delhi on 14 Jan, he participated in the ‘Dialogue on Science, Ethics and Education’. In this Dialogue the discussion included business, human greed, corruption, education, and Tibetan relations with India on the preservation of Buddhism, violence and non-violence, and Indian secular ideas. He then flew to Goa to visit Ling Rinpoche (the Reincarnation of His Tutor), who was recovering well after a recent road accident. At the end of the month, His Holiness spoke at the prestigious DSC Jaipur Literature Festival held at the heritage property, Diggi Palace in the Rajasthani capital of Jaipur. The theme of this year’s Festival is ‘The Buddha in Literature’.

Appeal by Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay

Seen through the eyes of a foreigner

With profound grief, I report that the number of Tibetans who have set themselves on fire to protest against repression in Tibet is now reaching 100. Given this continuing tragic situation, I request my fellow Tibetans to not celebrate Losar (Tibetan New Year) with our usual festivities. Kindly pray for all who have sacrificed their lives and for all who continue to suffer in occupied Tibet. The Central Tibetan Administration continues to appeal to Tibetans to not Contact Magazine

interested in Tibetan Buddhism and

Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay

undertake drastic actions, and still, selfimmolations persist in Tibet. I appeal to our Chinese brothers and sisters to join us in supporting the 7

aspirations of the Tibetan people. The CTA remains committed to the MiddleWay Approach and to resolve the issue of Tibet peacefully through dialogue. The responsibility as well as the solution for the current crisis in Tibet lies with the Chinese government. To our brothers and sisters in Tibet, we are with you every step of the way. The three principles of unity, innovation and self-reliance will guide us towards our goal of seeing His Holiness the Dalai Lama return to Tibet and restoring freedom for Tibetans. JANUARY 2013

news & issues

TCHRD Report: Human Rights in Tibet by Olivia Engel

The Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) released its 2012 report on the state of human rights in Tibet on 17 January. Their conclusion is the inarguable worsening of human rights abuses in the Chinese-occupied region, with on-going police brutality, arbitrary detentions, disappearances, torture, and sentencing of Tibetans accused of “splittist” activities. 2012 also saw an increase in restrictions on freedom of religion and expression, freedom of movement (particuarly Amdoans, Khampas, and resettled nomads), and access to Tibetan language and education. Border security has increased, resulting in only 374 escaped Tibetans in 2012,

as opposed to almost 600 in 2011. Chinese authorities added 269 (known) political prisoners this year, bringing the (known) total to 988. The Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has also increased ‘patriotic re-education’ and ‘legal education’ campaigns targeted at Tibetan monastic communities, and these campaigns are now reportedly present in all monasteries and nunneries in theTibetan Autonomous Region. Human rights watchers, reporters, and international investigations are completely banned in the area, and every internet cafe is strictly monitored. “Even the inaccessible North Korea boasts more international media presence than the Tibetan capital,” TCHRD points out. Looking forward to 2013, the report condemns China’s new National Human Rights Action Plan, which states that “[t]he Chinese government respects

the principle of universality of human rights, but also upholds proceeding from China’s national conditions and new realities.” TCHWD states: “This type of opting out of their own human rights action plan is a step in the wrong direction for human rights in Tibet and China.” The report also describes the model of ‘stability preservation’ (weiwen) as deeply embedded in Chinese society and governemnt. Xie Yue, professor of political science in China, cautioned Reuters that “[t]he whole model of ‘stability preservation’ is part and parcel of the mode of rule, not the work of just one man.” Additionally, China has amped up its domestic security, increasing the budget by almost 12%. The outlook for 2013, with new Chinese leadership but increased focus on oppression of human rights, remains murky.

Chinese Land Grabbing policies cause hardship in Tibet by Palden Choedon

Passang Lhamo, 62, from the Kyegudo province in Tibet burned herself on 13 September last year in protest against the Chinese government for its illegal acquisition of her ancestral land. Passang pleaded with Chinese government representatives, but was left without compensation. She later visited the Chinese authorities at Beijing but they took no action on her behalf. After her struggle, and the pain she endured, she burned herself right outside the officials’ building in Beijing. Kyegudo was struck by a massive earthquake in 2010, and many Tibetans in the region were made homeless, losing their farmland and businesses and forced to seek shelter in camps. The government later threatened to forcibly relocate some 600 people, mostly Tibetans, moving them from what was prime real estate in order to rebuild the town as what officially became billed as an “Ecological Tourism Centre”. Chinese authorities have reportedly Contact Magazine

arrested a Tibetan man, Gachoe, 35, for protesting against forced land seizures from local Tibetans in Nangchen region, eastern Tibet, under an official grassland nationalisation scheme.

Wukan residents marched to demand government action over illegal land grabs

According to news portal Tibet Express, he was arrested for resisting the official policy and taking part in a public-led protest against Chinese government land seizures. Under the scheme, “Protect Grassland Compensation,” Chinese authorities are forcing Tibetans to sell their land for a “minimal” reimbursement. Tibetans in the region have come up with their own oath “not to take compensation for grassland” and have 8

vehemently declined from taking part in the scheme and rejected monetary offers. Similar government schemes have been reported from other parts of Tibet as well. Protests against land seizures by Chinese authorities in Tibet have led to mass demonstrations and at least two self-immolations by Tibetans. Land grabbing has become a regular scene in eastern Tibet under the Chinese government. Tibetan people face major discrimination and their representations are unheard. Similar cases are also taking place in China. A recent report from Amnesty International said that forced evictions in China have risen sharply as debtladen local governments seek to shore up their finances, raising funds by selling seized land to developers. The Chinese government has banned the use of violence in urban evictions, and granted residents facing eviction new protection. However, the report said people in rural areas do not benefit from these protections. JANUARY 2013

news & issues

Lha’s Annual Report 2012 Lha Charitable Trust has concluded another successful year thanks to our many generous supporters! Lha’s primary goal is to provide meaningful, multi-leveled social services in Dharamsala to help ease the transition for the Tibetan refugee community. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 150 people, hosts between 15 to 25 volunteers, and provides approximately 20 various services which include language education, computer courses, vocational training, health and environmental education, a Community Soup Kitchen, clean water, medicine, clothing distribution, and a public Library. Lha’s services are open to Tibetan refugees as well as the local Indian population and people from the Himalayan regions. We also provide cultural exchanges for international groups and free coordination for volunteers from around the globe. Lha works hard to operate with minimum administrative and program costs to produce the maximum output. Your donations help us to improve and increase our services and projects. One of the many projects that donations in 2012 contributed to was the installation of three brand new water filtration systems in three schools serving around 600 hundred people who are now using pure clean water for both their drinking and cooking needs. In addition, donations helped support Lha’s Soup Kitchen to bring healthy food to those in need, serving 40-50 financially disadvantaged people daily and 105 needy people since it's inception. Another program of 2012 was the clear vision project which provided free eye exams to 105 people and free glasses to 80 people, and refunded the cost of eye medicines for 37 people. We also organized nine cultural exchange groups from international institutions with over 112 students participating in this program. Lha began this year having a social service booth at His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching. At the booth Contact Magazine

we distributed information on our social service, environmental issues and Tibetan issues. In addition we stored, for a small fee, items that can not be taken into the temple such as cell phones and cameras. Lha is proud to announce that it took over management of Contact Magazine starting in May, 2012! Recognized by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a very popular, free publication for Tibetan issues and community information in Dharamsala for over 14 years. It is one of the longest-running Tibetan publications in the area, and provides local residents, as well as international visitors with useful information. The donations from volunteers and exchange groups staying in Lha’s accommodations have allowed Lha to become more self-sufficient and sustainable – our language, computer classes and other social services are now able to continue to be provided regardless of outside funding! However, to keep up with the growing needs of the community and to maintain the operation of our other social services and special projects such as the soup kitchen, eye, dental & health care, clean water and environmental initiatives, we continue to rely on your generous donations. Since Lha's founding in 1997, we have continued to be inspired by the compassion, dedication, and contributions of generous supporters and thousands volunteers from around the globe. With your generous support, we hope to continue providing these invaluable services to the local community and engage in many new initiatives in the coming year. The following are some quick facts about Lha's successes during 2012. Thank you once again for your continued support, as we could not have achieved these things without you, the volunteers, and of course the dedication of the students and the community. 9

Important Initiatives in 2012 • • • • •

• • •

• •

•

2476 students attended language classes 699 new students enrolled in language classes 322 students attended beginner and intermediate level computer classes Distributed over 2300 free articles of clothing to the Tibetan and Indian communities Lha’s community soup kitchen provided clean, filtered water and nutritious meals to 40-50 financially disadvantaged people daily Provided to Tibetan refugees free eye exams to 108 people and free glasses to 80 people Organized a mass clean-up program in McLeod Ganj with Tibetan Settlement Office Provided recommendation letters to 176 students, a requirement of the Indian Government proving that newly arrived refugees have registered as relocating to India for educational opportunities Worked with 546 new volunteers who donated their valuable time and energy 120 international visitors enrolled in Tibetan Cooking, Tibetan Art and Tibetan Language classes Organized 9 Cultural Exchange Programs with university and high school groups from the USA and Mexico (112 student participants) Offered a free acupuncture treatment event with American acupuncturist Amelia De Mahy Published and distributed 5200 free copies of Contact Magazine since May 2012 when Lha took over Contact Magazine owership (700-1000 copies published every month) Installed three brand new water filtration systems in three schools serving around 600 people. Continued on page 16

JANUARY 2013

news & issues Jan 28:Why is Tibet Burning?

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay released a research publication explaining the fundamental reasons behind the ongoing wave of selfimmolations inside Tibet and the alarming escalation in the protests witnessed in the past few months. He said the critical situation in Tibet is being “fuelled by China’s total disregard for the religious beliefs, cultural values and reasonable political aspirations of the Tibetan people.”

Jan 26: Republic Day

Tibetans led by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected head of the Tibetan people, observed India’s 64th Republic Day in a ceremony at the Government-in-Exile Headquarters in Dharamshala and thanked the government of India and its people for their support.

Jan 23: Tibetans Passport

China has tightened the procedure for issuing passports to Tibetans after hundreds of them were detained in Jan 2012. No passport has been issued to a Tibetan in the Tibet Autonomous Region since Feb or Mar 2012. Tibetan officials have to surrender theirs upon return from official travels abroad

Jan 22: Tibetan Filmmaker

Tibetan filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen has been shifted to a women’s prison after suffering harsh treatment and months of solitary confinement at the Xichuan labour camp in Siling, eastern Tibet. Wa n g c h e n was arrested Dhondup Wangchen by Chinese government in 2008 when he released his film “Leaving Fear Behind” just before the 2008 Beijing Olympic games. Contact Magazine

Tibetan Headlines

Jan 20: Farm Destroyed

A major Chinese mining project in central Tibet has forced the eviction of hundreds of Tibetans from their ancestral lands and caused severe damage to the environment, leading to livestock deaths and decline in farm yield. Around 400 families of Dhun village in Lhundup, near Lhasa were affected.

Jan 18: Human Rights

Tibet was ranked “Worst of the Worst” in the US-based rights body Freedom House’s latest annual survey of political and civil rights. China itself was ranked as “Not Free” and described as having “the world’s most complex and sophisticated apparatus for political control.” The “Not Free” ranking is assigned to countries “where basic political rights are absent, and basic civil liberties are widely and systematically denied.”

Jan 17: Wild Yaks

Tibetan wild yak (Tib: Drong), the third largest land mammal in Asia, could be making a comeback following a sharp decline in numbers in the mid 20th century due to overhunting. The Wildlife Conservation Society recently found nearly 1,000 wild yaks in the Kekexili Nature Preserve on the remote Tibetan plateau.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Ven Prof Ngawang Samten at the Central University for Tibetan Studies

Jan 15: Chinese Intellectuals

“Many intellectuals in China have started appreciating our middle way approach,” H.H. the Dalai Lama said while talking to reporters at Central University of Tibetan Studies (CUTS), 10

Sarnath. He said that people in China are now critical of their leaders against their vision for Tibet.

Jan 8: China’s Claims

China claims to have halted Tibet self-immolations with the arrest of alleged instigators Lorang Konchok, 40, a senior monk of the Kirti Monastery, and his nephew Lorang Tsering, 31, said a Beijing Review report posted on the official eng.tibet. cn Jan 4.

His Holiness speaks on NDTV

Jan 7: Call for Investigation

H. H. the Dalai Lama has renewed calls for a “thorough investigation” into the causes behind the selfimmolations inside Tibet. Speaking to NDTV, a major Indian news channel, he said that two to three generations of Tibetans inside Tibet have “really suffered a lot” under China’s rule.

Jan 6: Teachers Meeting

The First Tibetan Teachers’ Meeting, organised by the Department of Education under the Central Tibetan Administration was held at Dharamshala. Tibetan teachers and educational administrators met for three days of discussions and brainstorming, and had the opportunity to interact directly with Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay. Similar meetings are likely to be organised in future

Jan 3: Travel Restrictions Eased

The Chinese government of the Tibet Autonomous Region has eased the highly restrictive conditions introduced for non-Chinese visitors for most of 2012, apparently to promote tourism in the lean winter season. JANUARY 2013

news & issues

International Headlines

Jan 28: Brazil Mourns Brazil has declared three days of national mourning for 231 people killed in the Kiss nightclub fire in the southern city of Santa Maria. The fire reportedly started after a member of a band lit a flare on stage. Authorities say most of the victims were students who died of smoke inhalation.

Jan 27: India Wins Dharamsala was gripped by cricket fever over the weekend as the final game of the five-match series was played here. India had taken an unassailable 3-1 lead in Mohali but crowds flocked to see them play England on Sunday. The Chief Minister of Himachel Pradesh, and former Chief Minister, as well as the Tibetan political leader Dr. Lobsang Sangay joined the celebrations in the town. Jan 21: Propaganda Workers About 10 percent of the Chinese people in Beijing are propaganda workers of one kind or another, mostly serving online. The city’s propaganda chief, Lu Wei, has asked every propaganda worker in the city – around 60,000 directly employed by the government’s propaganda offices and two million others off the official payroll – to promote “positive attitudes” on the internet. Jan 21: Women Hit Hardest Women and girls were hit the Contact Magazine

hardest by the global recession, according to child rights and development organisations. “The world is failing girls and women,” a report by Plan International and the Overseas Development Institute said.

Jan 9:Hostages Released Forty-eight Iranians held hostage by rebel fighters in Syria since August have been freed. They are reported to have been released in exchange for prisoners held by the Syrian authorities.

Jan 20: Military Service Austrians have voted overwhelmingly in favour of retaining compulsory military service. The issue has divided politicians - supporters of change said a professional army would be more effective, critics said it would put Austria’s cherished neutrality at risk.

Jan 8: Kashmir Shootings Two Indian soldiers have been shot dead in the disputed Kashmir region between India and Pakistan, near the so-called Line of Control. Kashmir is claimed by both nations in its entirety and has been a flashpoint between them for more than 60 years.

Jan 15: Preparing for War The Chinese army has been told to prepare for war and bolster its ability to win a battle. The directive was made in a military newspaper, People’s Liberation Army Daily, and comes amid heightened tensions between China and Japan over territorial disputes in the East China Sea.

Jan 14: Kumbh Mela Festival The Kumbh Mela, which happens, every 12 years, is billed as the biggest gathering on Earth. More than 100 million people are expected to attend the 55-day festival in Allahabad. People gather to bathe at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers to cleanse their sins. 11

Jan 6: State of Palestine Palestinian President Mahmoud A b b a s has told West Bank officials to prepare to put the w o r d s “State of Palestine” on public documents. Until now passports, ID cards, driving licences and other documents have been stamped “Palestinian Authority”. This follows the UN upgrading of Palestinians’ status to non-member observer state. Jan 1: Reporter Forced to Leave A New York Times journalist, Chris Buckley, has been forced to leave mainland China after his visa was not renewed in an apparent act of retaliation for reporting about the Chinese premier Wen Jiabao Wen’s family wealth of USD 2.7 billion assets. The Times report on both its English-language website and its new Chinese-language site were blocked within China, and they remain so. JANUARY 2013

around town

Charities and Organizations

Central Tibetan Administration

The CTA serves in Dharamsala 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: Dharamsala – 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 organizes his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamsala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221879 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organization with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organizes cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organization publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 / 221010 EMAIL:info@tibetanyouthcongress.org, gensec@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, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221527 / 221198 EMAIL: twa@tibetanwomen.org

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamsala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.in LOCATION: Dharamsala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-220356 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Contact Magazine

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, Dharamsala – 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 Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-222467 / 226181 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 Dharamsala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital) LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamsala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 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 organization. WEB: www.sambhota.org LOCATION: Session Road, Dharamsala 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 organization that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organization attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organizations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org

LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 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, Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-223363 EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)

Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2) WEB:www.lhasocialwork.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 organization that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -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. Some volunteer opportunities available. WEB: www. tong-len.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamsala-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, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in, tibccharity@gmail. com

JANUARY 2013

around town CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative

Charities and Organizations

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative provides HIV/ AIDS education, prevention and care services in Tibetan settlements throughout India. The services provided by CHOICE range from individual counseling to organizational training. CHOICE has a sponsorship program and occasionally utilizes volunteers. WEB: www.choicehivaids.org LOCATION: Arora House, 2nd Floor, Temple Road, Dharamsala PHONE: 01892-220239, 941-831-6896 EMAIL: choicehivaids@gmail.com

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)

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, Dharamsala 176215 PHONE: 0189 222 6627 EMAIL: tccroffice@yahoo.com

Rogpa Baby Care Center

The Rogpa Baby Care Center helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The center needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing. WEB: www.tibetrogpa.org LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka Guest House, Jogiwara Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 (near no.13 on map) PHONE: 981-665-9549 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm- 5 :00 pm EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Dharamsala Dog Rescue

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

Clean Upper Dharamsala Project

Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper 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, Dharamsala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

Contact Magazine

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levls 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 Dharamsala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, 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: Dharamsala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children work hard at making delightful handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors. WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE: 01892-246366, 981-685-1841 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com

First trip to Indiain Tibetan Buddhism Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested

Name: John Munoz

Job at Lha: English Teacher, Computer support

After reading various writings of

registered Nonprofit and benefits a

and of His Holiness Dalai Lama— H.H.culture, The DaliDharamsala—the Lama, and visitinghome the variety of locals, the including Indians, always evoked special, unique and spiritual feelingrefugees. in me. Having Shambala Centersome in Boulder, Colorado, monks, and Tibetan spent the to past eight years with various studies readings Tibet, I wanted learn more about Tibetan Lha hasand to revolve howabout to establish Buddhism volunteer to teach.people continuity the midst of change: I was very and eager to meet Tibetan and toinbecome useful to their Traveling to McLeod Ganj wascommunity. the continuity of teaching with steady

perfect way to do both. I decided to volunteer turnover, and continuity of volunteer LHA, and with had adevelopment number electricity power cuts. Given my at experience issues amongst and my current stud-City of skills. Lha let me know what they power is unreliable, so we try to have ies, I decided in January 2012 that I would come to McLeod Ganj and most needed: Computer support and as many PCs as possible on battery make my long-term dream a reality. Among all organizations that I conEnglish Teachers. Here I am, doing backup. This both avoids loss of work, tacted, Lhalugging provided mesuitcase with the and helps most practical informaboth, after a 23Kg fullhandiest and also the computers last tion. Soon after our first emails, I felt attached and could not wait to of items to donate from the USA. longer, since every surprise shutdown arrive reading articles, and imagining Thishere. placeWatching really feelsvideos, like home to risks damaging the OS. myself walking the streets of McLeod Ganj made me feel already involved me after just a few weeks. There is a The volunteers are learning Tibetan with the Tibetan community. real sense of welcome. Some days I songs, accompanied by guitar – a join the prayer meetings at the Main really a wonderful experience. I see Buddhist temple (where Dalai I afinally concerted effort among Tibetans After spending some daysthe in Delhi, arrived to McLeod after Lama speaks), other days I walk the to preserve their culture, with a an exciting journey on the twisting roads up to the Himalayas. The Kora that circles it and recite a popular wonderful, humble enthusiasm. welcoming of Lha, their guidance and the introduction to the Tibetan mantra,was “OmaMani Padme Hum”, andforConditions are first similar myI society stunning experience me. I knewhere on my daytothat spin the prayer wheels. home in Denver, Colorado (Elevation, was going to have a wonderful time. The four weeks I spent here were I get excited and nervous before Weather, Mountains, Crows) yet filled mixture of official research, unofficial talks, each with class,an andinteresting relieved and pleased exotic in many others. Denver is a impressions and feelings, all of which helped me to get to know Tibetby the enthusiasm and attendance of city in the central western United ans by The finding out more about the realities they face. the better students. Advanced English States, semi-arid, with 300 days of class is really getting interested and sun a year, where it snows 3-4 times I writing spent my days visiting officesI ofaTibetan NGOsNovember engaged inthrough posurprisingly goodthe poetry. month from also enjoy tutoring I work the there at a welcoming large telecom litical, socialindividual and human rights and issues.April. I received most the Conversation computer approach and I amclass, very where gratefulI sit to allcorporation people whodeveloping were always here for with 4-6 students,questions. pose a question, systems. my never-ending Thanks tobusiness you, I got on a new path to know and better, listen as student you noteach merely fromdevelops books and teachings, but by getting some conversational skills as we discuss If you want to help, Lha desperately real-life experience. Through my engagement, I aim to offer a longcurrent issues. The School is a needs Windows 7 licenses!

term assistance to Lha and to do my best in the West to raise further 13

JANUARY 2013

activities & tourist info Upcoming Events

MEDITATION

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

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

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

ART & MUSeums

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

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

WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 01982-21866 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

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

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

Vipassana Meditation

Kangra Art Museum

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01982-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

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

Public Audience with HH Karmapa

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

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center

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

WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tipadhasa@hotmail.com

Form Gallery

WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 981-631-5336

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

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

BUS SCHEDULE

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

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

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

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)

Tourism Office: 01892-23107 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026 Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

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

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

Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm Manali: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75)

Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS A private taxi to Lower Dharamsala will cost you Rs 180. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10. Contact Magazine

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamsala PHONE: 9816043708

Tibet Museum

Tushita Meditation Center

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

Naam Art Gallery

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. phone: 222 053,223 381 Post Office The McLeod Ganj Post Office is located on location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Phone: 221 924 Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. JANUARY 2013

activities & services LANGUAGES Tibetan Language Class

LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992 See ad on pg 3.

Hindi Classes

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

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

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

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

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, Dharamsala Web: www.esukhia.org Phone: 8679502538 E- mail- esukhiacontact@gmail.com

HEALTH SERVICES

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-22618 / 223113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala 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

Contact Magazine

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

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

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

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

Nature Cure Health Club

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital

LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala 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: 980-592-8923, 973-621-1210

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

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes

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

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10:00am-12:00pm & 4:00-6:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

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

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

COOKING Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center Lha Tibetan Cooking School

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

Indian Cooking Classes

Traditional Thai Massage

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

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

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

JANUARY 2013

news

& advertisements Visitor Services Offered at Lha TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS

Learn more about the Tibetan people and explore the unique Tibetan culture including Buddhism by learning the Tibetan language! Learn reading, writing, speaking, and grammar. Beginner and intermediateclass levels with qualified teachers for interested individuals and small groups.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASS

Learn a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread from qualified teachers. Learn to prepare and then taste the delicious and yummy Tibetan foods for individual or small groups.

TIBETAN ARTS CLASS

Learn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting including drawing and how to use color for interested individuals and small groups with a professional and qualified artist.

TIBETAN HOME-STAY

Lha arranges short or long term home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style. Home-stays provide a valuable opportunity for visitors and locals to connect and learn about each other’s cultures.

YOGA

For sound physical, mental and emotional development we offer Sivananda and Hatha yoga for beginners with a qualified teacher for small groups.

MASSAGE

Complete physical and mental relaxation and stress reduction with re-vitalizing techniques of deep tissue and acupressure with a professional therapists. Contact: Lha Office on Temple Road, opposite State Bank of India. Phone: 01892-220992 Email: office@lhasocialwork.org

Continued from page 9

Lha’s Annual Report 2012

QUICK FACTS from 2003 to 2012 • • •

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

Contact Magazine

• •

• • •

30,000 free books have been distributed to Tibetan and local Indian schools and libraries More than 29,031 articles of clothing have been collected and distributed through the donation center Multi-language courses have benefited over 8,718 people Computer and IT workshops have helped over 2,322 people 296 free eye check-ups and glasses have been provided for more than 346 people 16

• • • •

Over 485 people have attended Lha's yoga classes More than 160 people have graduated from Lha's massage courses 67 people have graduated from Lha's photography courses The Lha Community Soup Kitchen has fed between 35-50 people daily with 105 people in total benefitting since its opening in July, 2011

Happy New Year! JANUARY 2013