Contact November 2015

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

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Contact

A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues and Community Information RGD No. HPENG/2013/51798 Volume: XVII Issue: 10 30 November 2015

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Historic Visit to Tibet by US Delegation

by Rohini Kejriwal Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic Leader of the United States House of Representatives and one of the most prominent international supporters of the Dalai Lama, made an historic unannounced visit to Lhasa in Tibet, Hong Kong Read more on page 3

US Torture Watchdog Questions China

by Tenzin Samten Chinese officials were pressured by members of the United Nations Committee against Torture in Geneva on November 17 over the widespread use of torture in China’s prisons; crackdowns on activists and especially on the subject of political prisoners and custodial deaths.

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“Use Logic and Reason in Your Studies” Advises His Holiness

by Sam Ferguson Nuns from several monasteries gathered at the Theckchen Chöling temple in Dharamshala on October 31 to make a debate presentation to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The event was hosted this year by Geden Choeling, the oldest Read more on page 7

Thousands Flock to Hear Samdhong Rinpoche’s Teachings

by Susan Laidlaw His Eminence Professor Samdhong Rinpoche held a series of teachings and activities to offer guidance and support to over 2,500 people attending from the Tibetan settlement Mundgod Dhueguling in Southern India from November 3 – 15, as well as visiting monasteries and Read more on page 6

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about lha & contact Contact, a free monthly magazine published by Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. The registration number is HPENG/2013/51798.

Acknowledged by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 16 years.

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

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

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Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programmes, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programmes and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people.

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Historic Visit to Tibet by US Delegation Continued from page 1

and Beijing in early November. This was the first Congressional delegation to enter Tibet since the 2008 unrest there which was marked by protests, demonstrations and violence.

While little was known about the trip, China’s Foreign Ministry described it as part of a “normal exchange” between the two countries. This itself made headlines, owing to China’s usual denial of access to free press or foreign delegations to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) where Tibetan Buddhists have for decades complained of cultural and religious persecution under Chinese rule. The visit was also unexpected because Pelosi had previously upset Beijing by speaking out for Tibetan rights and by meeting the Dalai Lama, whom Beijing views as a separatist.

“If freedom loving people don’t speak out against repression in Tibet, then we have lost all moral authority to speak out on behalf of human rights

Delegates’ press conference Photo:Voice of America/Tibetan

anywhere in the world,” Pelosi said earlier this year when the House passed a bipartisan resolution urging China to improve human rights in Tibet.

Pelosi - one of the most well known critics of China’s policies and human rights record in Tibet - led a delegation of Congressional Democrats on the trip to China. The delegation visited the Potala Palace in Lhasa, the Jokhang Temple - a sacred destination for religious pilgrims, a Tibetan school and a residential home. They also had discussions with leaders of the TAR and with people from different ethnicities, including monks and nuns, thereby deepening the delegation’s comprehensive understanding of Contact

Tibet. During the visit, Pelosi also met the Communist Party Chief Chen Quanguo, who is known for his hardline approach and had warned her that the US government should “respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, commit to not supporting activities

US delegation at a bilateral meeting with leaders of China Photo:Reuters

aimed at splitting China and not allow the 14th Dalai Lama to wander through again, and not provide any form of support or facilitation to the separatist activities of the ‘Tibetan Independence’ forces.”

The delegation also had candid talks with the Vice Party Secretary of TAR Baima Chilin and Party Secretary of Lhasa Qi Zhala on the importance of respecting Tibet’s autonomy, its ecology, and the human rights and religious freedom of its diverse people.

In Beijing, they met the Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Li Keqiang; National People’s Congress Chairman Zhang Dejiang and National People’s Congress Vice Chairman, Zhang Ping.

They emphasised the need to respect religious freedom and expression in Tibet, autonomy and democracy in Hong Kong, and human and women’s rights across China. President Obama and President Xi’s agreements on climate change, protection of cyber space and countering the proliferation of nuclear weapons were also touched upon.

In Hong Kong, the delegation met Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung to discuss the importance of the USHong Kong bilateral relationship, as well as several Pan-Democratic, Labour and Liberal Party legislators, civil society activists and student leaders to talk about preserving Hong Kong’s 3

autonomy, advancing democracy, and protecting the rule of law and human rights.

Reporting the visit, the Chinese state media claimed that Pelosi gave high praise to the changes in the new Tibet and the “hard work of the Chinese government in protecting religious freedom, preserving traditional ethnic culture, and protecting the ecology and environment, among other things”.

This language is consistent with the usual practice by official Chinese news organisations to misquote prominent visitors.

Following the trip, Pelosi issued a statement saying that the “delegation was grateful for the opportunity to

Nancy Pelossi and the delegates meeting monks from Sera Monaastery Photo:Tibet.net

travel to Lhasa, Tibet to observe, learn and listen about life on the Tibetan plateau”. Among the Congressional delegates was Representative Jim McGovern, who has been instrumental in introducing bipartisan legislation to promote travel by Americans to Tibetan areas where access is routinely denied

by Chinese authorities. The delegation also included Betty McCollum, Tim Walz, Joyce Beatty, Alan Lowenthal and Ted Lieu. “We welcome this initiative by the US Congressional delegation led

by Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi.

The visit is evidence that Ms Pelosi and the United States Congress care deeply about Tibet, and it also sends a strong signal to the Chinese authorities that access to Tibet is of great concern to the US Government, putting Tibet squarely back in the spotlight of international diplomacy,” said Matteo Mecacci, President of the International Campaign for Tibet.

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

Election Procedures in the Spotlight

by Hannah Dellabosca The new democratic system for the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, set up since His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s retirement from political life, has been a source of pride for Tibetans.

However, two open letters addressed to the Election Commission (EC) regarding the current Sikyong election have raised significant concerns regarding whether the democratic principles are being put into practice.

The first letter, entitled An Open Letter to the Sikyong, Kashag, and Election Commissioner of the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala, India, was co-authored by 27 European and North American pro-Tibet support organisations.

It expressed concerns over the

Open letter from 27 Tibet supporters Photo:rangzen.net

procedural transparency regarding which organisations are approved and/ or exempt from election regulations, the unfair advantages available to incumbent officials, and the lack of an independent body to create and enforce regulations.

This letter documented particular incidences of selective enforcement of electoral rules, stating that violations such as a candidate using an official platform for their own campaign purposes have occurred without penalty.

Another letter entitled An Open Letter to the Chief Election Commissioner Mr Sonam Choephel Shosur la was authored by Jigme Ugen on behalf of the National Tibetan Congress. This letter leveled criticism at the process by which Tibetan

organisations gain approval from the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the EC to nominate and publicly support candidates during the election.

In the current system there are only eleven approved Tibetan organisations that are able to nominate and publicly approve candidates. These eleven organisations are pre-approved by Parliament. Both open letters argue that the current system used by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile lacks transparency and hinders the right to free speech regarding political candidates for Tibetan organisations not officially recognised by the CTA. The National Tibetan Congress, speaking as an organisation currently unrecognised by the CTA, states in its open letter that this limitation “conditions the right of free speech on official permission, and sets up a twotier system that treats organisations differently”. The National Tibetan Congress included a public request for official recognition from the CTA in its letter.

In response to these two open letters of concern, the Electoral Commission, led by EC Chief Sonam Choephel Shosur, released a statement denying any systematic failure, rather that it had accurately followed all electoral procedures set out by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. The EC’s statement drew attention to the unique context of the exiled status of the Tibetan parliament, stating that “...the rules and regulations of the Central Tibetan Administration are formulated on the basis of a refugee community, which cannot be compared to the laws of democratic independent countries.”

Sonam Choephel Shosur also noted that criticism should be directed towards official channels to be dealt with by the electoral Commission.

“Any complaint has to be backed with irrefutable evidence and proof

to be taken into consideration.

Besides, any complaint ought to be brought forth from a local Election Commission level where the incident of malpractice has occurred. The local EC should then approach the headquarters with the grievances.”

A delegation from three independent agencies Asia Democracy Network, Forum-Asia, and the Asian Network for Free Elections - was sent to Dharamsala to independently observe and assess the election proceedings. This delegation has released a preliminary statement, highlighting that the “lessons learned

The Chief Election Commissioner, Sonam Choephel Shosur with Additional Election Commissioners at a press conference Photo:Tibet.net

from them [the 2015 Sikyong and Parliamentary Elections] will result in another important step towards consolidating democracy for the Tibetan Community”. The delegation released a comprehensive report on the positive and negative aspects of the preliminary election on November 20 at Hotel Norbu House. It is hoped that this report, combined with feedback from the open letters addressed to the EC, can help to improve procedural fairness before the final round of voting on March 20 next year. The observers did give very positive feedback following the election, saying “this election saw people’s vigorous engagement in election through debates, discussions and campaign activities, which is evidence of people’s active involvement in the political process which should be encouraged and embraced”.

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

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NOVEMBER 2015

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& issues

US Torture Watchdog Questions China Continued from page 1

The Chinese government reported that they are working on combating torture through better training of prison guards and the use of audio and video recordings of interrogations. “Our efforts have produced major progress in our combat against torture,” said Wu Hailong, the Chinese ambassador who heads its delegation of 39 senior officials to the UN body.

The UN committee raised several issues, including the use of interrogation chairs, electric shocks and weighted leg cuffs on detainees; it also inquired whether detainees had access to medical facilities and why prisoners were held in solitary confinement. The evasive nature of China’s report on torture, which included few specifics, prompted the UN members to raise direct questions about the detention of many of Chinese lawyers since the crackdown on lawyers in July. They also demanded details on the number of political prisoners in Tibet. George Tugushi, a member of the committee,

was quoted as saying, “Please explain the deaths that have occurred in Chinese detention facilities because people were unable to obtain (medical) treatment on time, based on a number of reports the committee has received.” Wu Hailong said his

team would respond to the frank and sharp questions from the UN body the following day.

Jin Chunzin, deputy director of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission for China replied to the questions relating to Tibetan political prisoners saying that there are no such cases of political prisoners. “The allegation of cruel treatment of suspects from

ethnic minority groups is groundless” she asserted.

Regarding the treatment of prisoners with reference to solitary confinement practices in Chinese prisons, Mr Li of the Public Security Ministry of China said that it was a management matter and not a punitive measure. They denied using iron interrogation chairs.

They admitted using chairs known as “tiger chairs” but claimed they were for the safety of the detainees.

The New York Times reported that Golog Jigme, a Tibetan monk who has been a victim of Chinese torture and this year received asylum in Switzerland, expressed shock after the hearing and said, “It is incredible that a country like China, which is highly regarded in the international community, would come here and use this platform to tell lies.” Thus many international right groups have expressed dissatisfaction at the perceived indifference by China towards giving an open and honest account of situations within their country.

Destruction of a Peaceful Way of Life

by Tenzin Samten Local authorities have expelled 106 Tibetan nuns from Jhada Geden Khachoeling nunnery in Driru county in the Tibet Autonomous Region, and over the past few weeks have destroyed what has been left of their homes in the nunnery.

The nuns were expelled from their nunnery under the order of Sangay Tashi, a Tibetan officer. He then sent them off to their respective homes in Penpa, Sog and Driru counties. The nun’s cells in and around the nunnery were destroyed completely; the reason they were given for this was that new cells for nuns would be built.

Thupten Palmo, a nun from Geden Khachoeling nunnery who is currently studying in Jangchup Choeling in South India told the Tibet Times, “Our monastery was a pure monastery which is the reason Chinese authorities Contact

didn’t like it and sent 106 people back to their families. They were not even allowed to recite prayers and wear nun’s robes.”

The nuns are living under strict vigilance; they need to get permission from the authorities to

Jhada Khachoeling nunnery in Driru in an undated photo Photo:Radio Free Asia

visit neighouring homes and they are not allowed to talk in groups of two or more.

Sharing her experience, Palmo said “when I was back in Khachoeling 5

nunnery, they would call us for numerous meetings where we were asked to criticise or make derogatory comments about His Holiness the Dalai Lama. We used to cry and sit there without eating for days. But we never used to accept their orders.”

Palmo also said that there used to be around 200 nuns at the nunnery.

The Chinese authorities forcibly sent 40 nuns who are above 40 years old to a home for the elderly. Some nuns disrobed due to the stress and unbearable situation in the nunnery.

Another source said, “Local authorities came to Jhada Geden Khachoeling nunnery to collect the precious ornaments and idols.

Destruction of their nunnery is almost complete and homes of neighbouring villages are also demolished. The extremity of their situation reminded us of what happened in 1959.”

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

Thousands Flock to Hear Samdhong Rinpoche’s Teachings Continued from page 1

universities there.

Rinpoche inaugurated the formal opening of the newly built Congregation Hall at Phunkhang Khangtsen on October 29. The Congregation Hall houses the Holy Represents (images, paintings, and other artefacts) and the residential quarters of the ordained. Over two days His Eminence gave daily teachings in the Congregation Hall on Jey Tsongk hapa’s text The Foundation of All Excellent Qualities.

Teaching at the School of Snowland Tibetan studies, Gyudme Photo:samdhongrinpoche.com

On the last day of these teachings, which were attended by over two thousand ordained and lay people, he concluded by giving specific advice to monastic scholar practitioners.

From Phukhang Khangtsen, Rinpoche went to Drepung Loseling Monastic University to give a 12day commentarial teaching on Nagarjuna’s The Fundamental Wisdom and Buddhapalita’s Buddhapālita.

A celebration for Rinpoche’s birthday, which fell during the teaching on November 5, was organised by the university and a general congregation of sangha held a session of prayers and supplication to request long life for His Eminence. Later, officials of the monastic university gathered for a formal function to express gratitude to Rinpoche and reiterate wishes for his long life.

During the 12-day teachings Ripoche was able to fulfil many requests for teachings and blessings and transmissions on a variety of specific texts and practices. He also visited the whole-night dialectical debate on the Middle View at Drepung Loseling Monastic University.

Also in attendance there were His Eminence Gadhen Tri-Rinpoche, the Honourable Abbot and Honourable Former Abbots.

At the invitation of Sangbum Rinpoche, Samdhong Rinpoche visited Sangbum Ladrang, where he was offered a long life ceremony with a Mandala offering, and an offering of enlightened Body, Speech and Mind.

He led a Lama ChoepaTsog Offering (Delighting Teachers Offering rites), along with the Re-emanated lamas (Tulkus) of Drepung Loseling and later gave guidance and instruction to the incoming new Administrative Officials of the Monastic University.

At the request of Drepung Tsawa Khangtsen (Tsawa Residential Department), Rinpoche bestowed the permission-empowerment of

White Manjushri, in the system of the teacher Mation November 17, and later bestowed the blessingtransmissions of Saying Manjushri Names and the Praise to Manjushri Your Intelligence.

The following day, Rinpoche gave a guidance talk at the Great Dialectical Meet, Middle View and Perfection of Wisdom. This was organised on behalf of all Gelug, in celebration

of the 80th Birth Anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and in remembrance of His Holiness’s kindness. Also present at the event were His Eminence Gadhen TriRinpoche, the Honourable Abbots and the Honourable Former Abbots of Gadhen Monastic University and Drepung Monastic University. The

Rinpoche with GandenTripa Rinpoche, the supreme head of the Gelugpa Buddhist tradition Photo:samdhongrinpoche.com

same morning, Professor Samdhong Rinpoche gave a guidance talk at Gadhen Jangtse School on the unique heritage of Tibet and the benefits of studying Buddhist teachings.

Rinpoche then formally launched the school’s children’s cartoon stories Wonders of the World and later headed to the School of Snowland Studies, Gyudme, for further programmes there.

Professor Samdhong Lobsang Tenzin is the fifth Samdhong Rinpoche. He was born in 1939 in Jol, Eastern Tibet and recognised as the reincarnation of 4th Samdhong Rinpoche at the age of five, and enthroned in Gaden Dechenling Monastery at Jol. He fled to exile in 1959 and the following year received the Bhiksu ordination from His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Bodh Gaya Stupa. He has devoted his life to religious teachings and served in the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, becoming its first democratically elected leader, or KalonTripa, between 2001 and 2011.

To preserve and promote the Tibetan language, culture and tradition, Lha has launched a bi-lingual website to give free access to Rinpoche’s writings and teachings. To follow Rinpoche’s teachings, visit: http://samdhongrinpoche.com/en Contact

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NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

“Use Logic and Reason in Your Studies” Advises His Holiness Continued from page 1

Tibetan nunnery in Dharamsala.

His Holiness first addressed the gathered nuns, expressing his admiration for those who have completed their studies and are ready to take their final examinations to qualify as Geshemas next year.

He talked at length of the need for critical thinking in Buddhist teaching.

“This is the 21st century and we need to understand the Buddha’s teachings in the light of reason. When we teach, we need to do so on the basis of reason”.

He continued “Nowadays, the Nalanda tradition of approaching the Buddha’s teachings through logic and reason is found only amongst Tibetans. It’s something precious, we can be proud of and should strive to preserve.”

The Dalai Lama referenced his ongoing dialogue with scientists, who

have expressed admiration for the logical approach of Buddhism and its rich understanding of psychology.

He emphasised the accessibility of these learnings to Tibetans within the already translated Kangyur and Tengyur texts, before encouraging

The nuns debate in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Photo:Tibet.net

monasteries and nunneries to study philosophy. He recalled his Ornament for Clear Realisation teaching at Geden Choeling as a propitious start.

The nuns then engaged in debate, discussing topics such as the existence of past and future lives and how effects proved the existence of a cause.

A brief teaching by His Holiness referred to his writings on the Buddhist text Illuminating the Threefold Faith: Invoking the Seventeen Great Wise Adepts of Glorious Nalanda. He reinforced his earlier message, saying “…we are distracted by the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, it is extremely important that those of us who follow the Buddha should have faith based on an understanding of his teaching.

Therefore, we should examine it with an unbiased and inquisitive mind, analysing it closely.”

The Dalai Lama concluded by leading a short ceremony based on the well-known four line verse for taking refuge in the Three Jewels and generating the awakening mind.

Long Life Prayer for His Holiness the Dalai Lama

by Tenzin Samten Exiled Tibetans from around India gathered with other Buddhists at Tsugla-Khang, the main temple in Dharamshala on November 3 for a long life prayer offering (Tenshug) for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who turned 80 this year.

His Holiness was honoured with two gold awards, presented by the organisers of the Tenshug: Barkham

His Holiness addresses the crowd gathered for the long life prayer offering Photo: Choenyi Sangpo/TPI

Rongpo Shogka Chaegay; Barkham Sokshoe Association; Barkham Tridodo Tenshug committee and the Do-toe Cholka committee.

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Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister of the Tibetan Government-in-exile and Penpa Tsering, Speaker of Tibetan parliament, attended the prayer service, along with other officials of the Tibetan Government-in-exile.

His Holiness imparted teachings, with an introduction to Buddhism, compassion and empowerment.

Speaking about why Tibetan is the best language to study Buddhism, His Holiness said that before Buddhism came to Tibet, the Tibetan language didn’t use a vast vocabulary. To enable people to learn the Buddha dharma in Tibetan, volumes of Buddha’s teachings were translated from Indian into Tibetan. In doing so, Tibetans began to coin new words.

So he said that is the reason that the Tibetan language has become very rich in vocabulary when it comes to understanding the philosophy of Buddhism.

To emphases the importance of younger generations to continue the dedication and hard work of the older 7

generation, the 80-year-old Tibetan leader said, “our generation has come to an end and it is almost over.

Younger generations in both Tibet and

His Holiness receiving two gold awards from the organisers Photo:vot.org

exile need to shoulder responsibility and carry on with the hard work of the older generation.”

The gathering was concluded with dance performances from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and other artists followed by an open luncheon for the public.

The prayer offering was planned in accordance with Lha Bab Duchen, a Buddhist festival to observe the descent of Buddha from heaven back to the earth.

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Hosts a Conference on Poverty Alleviation

by Sarah Weber His Holiness the Dalai Lama hosted a two day symposium at his residence in Dharamshala, in cooperation with Washington based thinktank American Enterprise Institute (AEI),beginning on Wednesday November 4. It was the second symposium the AEI has held with His Holiness. The discussion was moderated by Arthur Brooks, President of AEI and was attended by noted panellists such as the Tibetan Prime Minister in Exile Lobsang Sangay, Finance Minister TseringDhondup, Home Minister Dolma Gyari and members of the Tibetan Chamber of Commerce.

The symposium’s first panel entitled Abundance without Attachment aimed to discuss the pursuit of happiness in a world of economic growth and His Holiness stressed the need to bridge the gap between rich and poor.

The panel additionally focused on

the question of what is a meaningful life in the midst of poverty and highlighted the importance of development in rural areas of India. It

by Tenzin Samten Tibetans in the south Indian state of Karnataka have been given the right to hold land in their name, and to be eligible to apply for some government benefits. This new policy gives Tibetans a similar status to Indian residents, something that has been denied them in the 55 years they have lived there and cultivated the land since leaving Tibet to take refuge in India.

The agricultural lands will be leased to the Central Tibetan Relief Committee, which will allot land to individual Tibetans to hold in their own name; they will be eligible for benefits such as crop loans and incentives, particularly from the Revenue and Agricultural department in Karnataka. Tibetans in Bylakuppe, Hunsur, Mungod and Kollegal will be issued the Rights, Tenancy and Crops records (RTCs) on their names.

However, the order has come with

a condition that Tibetans will not be eligible to transfer, mortgage or pledge leased lands to anyone else. The land has to be used only to grow crops.

The Bangalore Mirror reported on November 4 that regional commissioners of three districts - Mysuru, Uttara Kannada and Chamarajanagar - were directed last

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama with the delegates of the American Enterprise Institute at his residence in Dharamshala Photo:Tibet.net

was stated that the rich should provide facilities and education respectfully whilst the poor should work hard and develop self-confidence in their individual contribution to communal productivity. His Holiness ended the first day’s panel with the remark that we are social animals and therefore

Land Rights!

Karnataka state, South India Photo:Wikipedia

month to implement the government order and issue Tibetans with the RTCs. 8

need to take the welfare of all humanity into account. He pointed out that whether we are rich or poor, the size of our stomach is the same and we all have ten fingers.

The second panel was moderated by Danielle Pletka, Senior Vice President of foreign and defence policy studies at AEI.The panel addressed the topic of building business in India’s slums.

The AEI has taken special interest in a slum in Mumbai called Dharavi, home to between 700,000 and one million people. Representatives from the slums took part in the panel and explained that the people in Dharavi look after each other and try to get a good education in order to live a better life. In Dharavi there is social harmony and development not achieved by charity or through government help, but by peoples’own efforts. It was noted that development in India starts from below and is therefore more sustainable.

Dolma Gyari, the Minister for Home in the Tibetan Governmentin-Exile, negotiated these rights with the Karnataka government and the Tibetan Government has assured proper protection and utilisation of lands leased for Tibetans.

Historically, Karnataka was the first state after Himachal Pradesh to offer rehabilitation camps for Tibetan refugees, when the Nijalingappa government allotted land on lease to Tibetans who came to India along with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the 1960s. The first Tibetan settlement in Karnataka was created when 3,000 Tibetans were allotted a 1,500-hectare tract of uninhabited jungle land on lease at Bylakuppe in 1961. Today, there are five Tibetan settlements across Karnataka state. Tibetans living in these settlements mostly make their living by selling sweaters in winter and coming back to farm their land during the rest of the year.

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

Monasteries to be Awarded for Environmental Protection Work

by Tenzin Samten The 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorjee addressed the sixth Khoryung (Environmental) conference on environmental protection, held at Norbulingka Institute near Dharamshalafor Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and nunneries in the Himalayas.

The Karmapa announced that in future an award will be given to

The 17th Karmapa at the 6th Khoryung (Environment) Conference Photo:kagyuoffice.org

monasteries or nunneries based on their innovation and consistency in working towards environmental

protection and conservation. He said that it will be a way of recognising the hard work and dedication invested by monasteries and nunneries.

“In order to save the Himalayas and Tibet from the threats of deforestation, climate change and pollution, we have to be full of courage and believe whole heartedly that this endeavour is winnable. The alternative is unthinkable,” said His Holiness the Karmapa to the participants.

Commenting on the importance of creating a personal connection to the environment to get inspiration for their activities, he said “No matter what work you are doing, it is important to make deeper connection with it through your own personal feelings.

Then you will be naturally interested and enthusiastic about it.”

The annual conference brought together 45 representatives from 29 monasteries and nunneries in India, Nepal and Bhutan to present and review their projects on environmental

conservation. This year’s Khoryug conference also created the next five year action plan for participating monasteries.

Having lived a simple nomadic life in Tibet during his childhood, Karmapa expresses very deep connection to the natural world and is an active campaigner for

environmental issues. To address his heartfelt concerns for the environment and challenges it faces, he founded Khoryung, an association bringing together 55 monasteries and nunneries in the Himalayan region, in 2009.

The sixth Khoryung conference was organised by Kun Kyong, a Tibetan charitable trust.

Tibetan Refugees in Nepal:The US Raises Concerns

by Tsering Wangdue America has expressed concern over the situation of Tibetan refugees in Nepal. They were speaking at the 23rd session of the Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva in Switzerland on November, 4.

While expressing their serious concern at the Review, they acknowledged there has been a slight improvement in implementing Nepal’s new policy which limits the recruitment fee from migrant workers to prevent them being exploited abroad. Amanda Jessen, on behalf of the United States, recommended that Nepal register political refugees and provide documentation so that they can have access to education, job opportunities and travel.

Jessen continued, “We are also concerned that over 20 years have Contact

passed since the last registration of Tibetan refugees, leaving the majority of the population undocumented without the right to work and ability to travel.”

The Review report raised concerns about the rehabilitation and restoration of earthquake victims and

Nepal police guard at Boudhanath stupa following a Tibetan self-immolation in Kathmandu in 2013 Photo: Reuters

the discriminatory allocation of relief funds and resources in the affected 9

areas, particularly among Dalits and other marginalised groups. It also emphasised the amendments needed in the Nepal constitution to give religious freedom and allow women to convey their citizenship to their children and foreign spouses on an equal basis with men.

The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system. It consists of 47 United Nations member states which are elected by the UN General Assembly. It is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe and for addressing situations of human rights violations and making recommendations on them. It has the ability to discuss all thematic human rights issues and situations that require its attention throughout the year. It meets at the UN Office at Geneva.

NOVEMBER 2015

news

& issues Tibetans Targeted in China’s Anti-Corruption Campaign

by Tenzin Samten Chinese President Xi Jinping’s campaign to combat corruption in China has resulted in thousands of Chinese officials being investigated and jailed for misusing power.

However, in Tibet, the anti-corruption campaign focuses on religion too. In a statement released by party officials in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), the corruption campaign has been interpreted as another way to target religion, including Buddhism, and people who believe in religion.

Chen Quanguo, the Party Secretary of the TAR vowed to clamp down on “officials who have an incorrect view on minority people’s (issues) and profess no religious belief but secretly believe.” He added, “The party would go after officials who follow the Dalai Lama, go on pilgrimages to worship him, listen to religious sermons or send their children to schools organised by followers of the Dalai Lama.”

There are reports that people

there believe that party officials are deliberately misinterpreting the campaign against corruption to target Tibetans and shield themselves from the actual campaign. Since China’s anti-graft initiation in 2012, only 15

Chen Quanguo, Party Secretary of the Tibet Autonomous Region Photo:HRW

Tibetan party officials throughout the TAR have been investigated and proved guilty for minor embezzlement and corruption schemes by anti-graft authorities.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has consistently stated that he wants only

genuine autonomy for Tibet, however China continues to condemn His Holiness and call him a “separatist” and “monk in a wolf’s robe”, thus blaming him for the unrest there and the people’s continued adherence to Buddhism, which they are apparently now seeking to portray as “corruption” under this campaign. China portrays to the world that Tibet was “peacefully liberated” in 1950 and insists that today Tibet thrives on prosperity and equality.

International human rights groups and the Tibetan Government-in-exile say that the present situation in Tibet is far from a peaceful liberation, nor is it thriving on equality, citing the evidence of the protests in Tibet under the Chinese. Since 2009, 143 Tibetans have self-immolated inside Tibet as a form of protest against Chinese rule.

The latest was Tashi Kyi, a mother of four sons who self-immolated on the night of August 27 this year in Gansu province, TAR

US Backs Mine in Central Tibet

by Dorji Kyi The Government of the United States of America is loaning US $627 million (£417 million), along with a collective of banks led by the Bank of China, with the Agricultural Bank of China, China Construction Bank and Bank of Tibet, to expand the Gyama Copper Gold Polymetallic mine in Meldro Gungkar County in Tibet.

Once declared a model mine by the Chinese Government, 83 workers were killed there in a landslide in 2013. The Chinese government claims that the landslide was due to natural factors and not caused by the Gyama mine, but the Central Tibetan Administration’s Environment Desk has strong evidence to prove that the 2013 landslide was caused by mismanagement of the mine.

Tibetan communities around Gyama valley have been protesting about the mine for over five years Contact

as it has brought disruption to the traditional, indigenous nomadic lifestyle in the region, but these peaceful protests have always ended in a police crackdown. In 2005, local people complained about their cattle

Mining camp in Gyama valley near Tibet’s capital Lhasa Photo:High Peaks Pure Earth

dying after drinking waste water released from the mine into community streams. The company investigators 10

denied the link and many farmers did not get compensation.

The Gyama mine is in Medro Gungkar County in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). It is currently owned and operated by the Tibet Huatailong Mining Development Company Limited, a subsidiary of China National Gold Group. It is a large scale polymetallic deposit consisting of copper, molybdenum, gold, silver, lead and zinc with the potential to become China’s biggest copper producer in ten years. The mining company is expected to get an average net cash flow of $120 million (£80 million) every year for the 31 years of LOM (Life of Mine). The mine is expected producean annual production of 176 million pounds of copper, 35 thousand ounces of gold, 2.7 million ounces of silver and 2.3 thousand tonnes of molybdenum.

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

Tibet Represented at the Halifax Forum

by Dorji Kyi Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the democratically elected political leader of the Tibetan people, attended the Halifax International Security Forum held in Halifax, Canada from November20 – 22, a gathering which hosted thinkers, policymakers and practitioners from likeminded nations around the world.

During a panel discussion entitled From India to Japan: The Importance of Democratic Asia, hosted by Dr Daniel Twining, Senior Fellow for Asia at the German Marshall Fund of the United States and attended by democracy experts and prominent leaders from Asia, Sikyong spoke on the universality of democracy and China being “the new frontier”. He emphasised the need for likeminded political constructs in Asia to cooperate for a common objective of freedom and mutual respect. However, the Central Tibetan Administration reports on their website that this panel was off the record and there are no

pictures or record of the discussion.

The three-day forum hosted around 300 world leaders and security experts from 60 different

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay at the Halifax International Security Forum Photo:Tibet.net

countries.

Participants included Mohammed Abulahoum, head of the Justice and Building Party, Yemen; General John Allen, Centre for 21st Century Security; NATO generals; high ranking military officials from the Asia-Indo Pacific region and government ministers including

United States Senators Tim Kaine and John Barrasso. The conference is held annually and usually covers a broad range of international conflicts; this year’s forum deliberated on a wide range of issues from taking the fight to Daesh on the ground and on the web, to Russia’s and China’s growing military aggression, and the need for the world to accept its collective responsibility to welcome refugees fleeing conflict zones.

The Halifax International Security Forum (also known as the Halifax Forum or HISF) is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organisation headquartered in Washington, DC. It acts as a forum and network opportunity for international government and military officials, academic experts, authors and entrepreneurs to address global security issues. The Forum has been referred to by the media as “The Davos of international Security”. It is the only event of its kind in North America.

Latest Update on Election News New Voter Registration Open The Election Commission has announced a fresh voter registration deadline after the successful completion of the preliminary election in October. Tibetans who have recently turned 18 years old and were too young to participate in the preliminary election can register now for the final election. The new registration opened from November 6and the deadline has been extended to February 20 next year. The EC’s announcement stressed that regional election commissioners should make sure that new voters have fulfilled the annual voluntary contribution for this year. Details of the new voter registrations should be sent to the EC

by February 28 next year.

North America: Preliminary Result The result of the preliminary election in North America for the Tibetan Prime Minister and members of the 16th Tibetan Parliament-in-exile has

Voters at the preliminary election in Dharamshala in October Photo:Contact/Lha

been released by the Office of Tibet, Washington. The North American vote count showed a decisive win

for Dr Lobsang Sangay with a 63.5% margin. Sangay also led the polls in India and Nepal in the preliminary election. The North American electorate comprises Tibetans living in the United States and Canada.

Despite the registration of 9,803 people to vote, only 5,619 voted in the preliminary election on October 18.

From this turnout, Dr LobsangSangay led with 3,558 votes, followed by Speaker Penpa Tsering (1,236 votes), Lukar Jam Atsok (610 votes), Tashi Wangdue (191 votes) and finally Tashi Topgyal (4 votes). For members of the 16th Tibetan Parliament (Chithue) candidates, North America voted for TashiTopgyal, former MP, followed

by Tenzin Rangdol and Pema Chagtzoetsang respectively.

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

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NOVEMBER 2015

news & ISSUES

Tibetan Headlines Nov 23: Climate Change Concern The Canadian Tibetan Committee has sent a letter to the Canadian Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, urging her to include climate action in Tibet as core concern during the upcoming global climate conference COP21 in Paris. The letter also requested her to urge the Chinese government to reassess its economic developments policies in relation to the impact it has on climate change in Tibet and Asia.

Nov 22: India and Tibet Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Government of India, has said, “India should not change its political path when it comes to Tibet, keeping in mind the long traditional relationship between the two countries.” Rijiju was addressing the Tibetan community at Palpung Sherab Ling Monastery near Baijnath on the occasion of Padma Sambhavamaha puja. Former chief minister Shanta Kumar was also present.

Nov 20: Social Workers The 17th Karmapa, the head of the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, has expressed appreciation of the Tong-Len Charitable Trust on their 11th founding anniversary for its work on educating and empowering underprivileged Indian children in Himachal Pradesh. Tong-Len’s three major programmes focus on providing a hostel facility, schools and health care to children from poor families.

Currently150 students are benefiting from their activities.

Nov 15: Sikyong Offers Condolence In the wake of the terrorist attack in Paris, the capital of France, Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, the Prime Minister of Tibetan Government-in-exile offered his sincere condolences to victims on behalf of the Tibetan people and condemned the inhuman act. He said that terrorism is an attack on mankind and it reinforces the need for a collective international approach Contact

to combat terrorism.

Nov 13: Quantum Physics and Madhyamika His Holiness the Dalai Lama graced the two-day conference on Quantum Physics and the Madhyamaka Philosophical View at Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi. Scientists and philosophers from the US, Europe and India, and Tibetan monk scholars were invited to the conference. Arthur G Zajonc and Professor Bob Thurman from the USA, Professor Michel Bitbol from France, Professor N Mukunda from India, among others, were present.

Nov 12: Tibet House Brazil Tibet House Brazil has been officially launched. Mr Tashi Phuntso, the former liaison officer of Latin America has been appointed as the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the new office of Tibet. Tibet House was founded in New Delhi in 1965 by His Holiness to provide a centre for Tibetan and Buddhist studies. Since then many liaison offices have been set up around the world.

Nov 11: Abdul Kalam Seva Award His Holiness the Dalai Lama launched the first edition of the Abdul Kalam Seva Ratna Awards in Chennai. The award ceremony was introduced by the Abdul Kalam Vision Movement and supported by the Madras Management Association.

The award aspires to recognise and honour individuals/organisations who contribute to creating a developed India as envisioned by the late former President of India Dr ABJ Abdul Kalam.

Nov 10: Authorised Repression The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has exposed Chinese government documents which detail Chinese government authorised repression over the past few years in Diru County in Nagchu Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region.

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“Document No 224” was issued by the Diru County government on September 19, and calls for the intensification and deepening of the campaign to purge and reform religious institutions.

Nov 2: HR Lawyers The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has released a report Rule by Law: Special Report on the Rule of Law with Chinese Characteristic, in response to a severe crackdown on human rights lawyers in China. The crackdown raises concerns for the status of human rights and civil society in China, and directly impacts on Tibetans detained there who rely on these lawyers to defend them against unfair legal proceedings.

Oct 31: Lone Protester Arrested Tashi, 31, a father of four, was arrested on Oct 26 after a solo protest in his native Ngaba in the Sichuan province.

He carried a picture of the Dalai Lama and called for Tibetan freedom and the return of the Dalai Lama to Tibet. News of the arrest was delayed in the communications clampdown in the area, imposed as a measure to hamper the ongoing protests there.

Oct 30: Writer Released Kelsang Sonam, a writer (pen name Gangpel Bodpa) has been released after serving over nine years of his ten and half years prison sentence.

He was jailed in 2006 for “separatist behaviour” - divulging state secrets to outsiders including “separatist forces” in exile, and for helping a political prisoner smuggle a letter to the United Nations out of prison.

NOVEMBER 2015

news & issues

International Headlines Nov 26: Pope in Africa Pope Francis is on a three-nation tour, making his first stop at Kenya.

The Pope celebrated mass with thousands of people at the University of Nairobi where he spoke about abortion, corruption and the need for a caring society.

He urged young Kenyans to build a society which is more just, inclusive and respectful of human dignity. He will be also visit Uganda and Central African Republic.

Nov 24: Internet Surveillance The Chinese government is cutting down mobile services for residents in Xinjiang who use software to evade internet filters. From last week, internet services of people get cut if they have downloaded foreign software, reported the New York Times.

One of the affected people received a text message, “Due to police notice, we will shut down your cellphone number within the next two hours in accordance with the law.”

Nov 21: Belgium Under Threat In Belgium, the terrorist threat alert has been raised to level four, the highest level, for the first time. According to the Belgian Coordinating Body for Threat Analysis the threat necessitates specific security measures and recommendations for the population, and it has requested people to avoid crowded places, facilitate security checks and not to spread rumours.

Nov 19: Home Abortions A new study has found that at least 100,000 women in Texas have tried to end a pregnancy at their home without help from doctors. The number is expected to rise as a result of laws aimed at restricting abortions. Before the new restriction law was passed in 2013, there were 43 clinics providing abortions there, now there are 19.

Contact

Nov 18: Same-sex Marriage Ireland has joined the growing list of nations where same-sex couples are getting married. The country’s first same-sex wedding took place in Clonmel, County Tipperary where two men, Cormac Collogly and Richard Dowling became husbands.

The Irish people legalised same-sex marriage with a national referendum in May. Ireland was the first country in the world to recognise the practice via a popular vote.

Nov 16: Nepal Blockade Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has urged India to immediately lift the “undeclared blockade” to boost bilateral ties between the two countries. “The ongoing blockade is worse than the war-time situation,” he said. He confirmed that Nepal’s new Constitution was excellent and in line with the principles of charter of the United Nations and Panchsheel.

However, India has firmly denied imposing a blockade.

Nov 13: Terror Attack in Paris At least 129 people were killed and 352 injured in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks in Paris. Beginning at 21.16 hours CET, the terrorists carried out six mass shootings and three suicide bombings. The deadliest attack took place at the Batacian theatre where 89 people were killed.

The Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL) has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Nov 13: Dozens Killed At least 37 people have been killed and 181 wounded in two suicide bomb attacks in a residential area of the Lebanese capital Beirut.The bombers blew themselves up in a busy street in the southern suburb of Burj al-Barajneh, a stronghold of the Shia Islamist Hezbollah movement.

The Sunni jihadist group Islamic State claimed responsibility, but there has been no independent confirmation.

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Nov 11: Suu Kyi Wins Seat Aung San Suu Kyi has won a seat in Myanmar’s parliamentary elections.

According to the latest numbers, her National League for Democracy Party has won 163 of the 182 seats declared so far in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the country’s parliament. She will not be eligible to lead the government as she was married to a British man and her children are British.

Nov 10: Crocs on Guard Indonesia is considering building an island prison guarded by crocodiles to house death-row drug convicts. The head of the anti-drugs agency said crocodiles can make better guards than humans, saying “You can’t bribe crocodiles. You can’t convince them to let inmates escape.” Indonesia has some of the toughest drug laws in the world and ended a four-year moratorium on executions in 2013.

Nov 9: Historic Talks Chinese President Xi Jinping and Taiwan’s democratically elected President Ma Ying-jeou met for talks in Singapore, the first talks in more than 60 years. Many people in Taiwan see Taiwan as independent whereas China views Taiwan as a breakaway province which will one day be reunited with the mainland. There were protests in Taiwan, with people seeing closer links with China as a threat to their democracy.

Nov 3: Merkel Meets Activists German Chancellor Angela Merkel, on a trip to China, met nine human rights activists and political dissidents in Beijing. She met the human rights lawyers, writers and bloggers at the German Embassy in a private meeting. They told Merkel that the human rights situation in China had worsened since President Xi Jinping came to power.

OCTOBER 2015

lha news and projects

Dental and Clear Vision Projects 2015 Lha Charitable Trust’s latest dental and clear vision projects have provided

medical, dental and eye care assistance to Tibetan refugee communities in

Dharamshala, Bir other Himalaya regions, sponsored by the Louisiana Himalayan Association.

This year’s programme provided 248 people with medical check-ups, utra sounds, X-rays, blood tests and urine and stool tests, and 92 people were provided with freemedicine. 125 people received dental care including check-ups, cleaning, x-rays, tooth filling, dental scaling, etc, with tooth extractions, nine root canal treatments, and 22 people provided with free medicine.

86 people were treated under the

eye care project, including 85 eye check-ups and provision of glasses.

One person was prescribed and issued with medicine for their eye condition.

As well as Tibetan refugees, many monks and nuns from the Himalayan regions who are pursuing Buddhist studies in the local monasteries also benefited from this programme.

On behalf of all the beneficiaries, Lha would like to thank our generous sponsors, particularly the Louisiana Himalayan Association, for their continuous support.

Key to Academic Success

Lha Charitable Trust organised an educational talk entitled Key to Academic Success: Your Mindset on November 21 at Tibetan Children’s Village Suja School. The speaker was Mr Gyaltsen, former Education Officer of the Department of Education at the Central Tibetan Administration and a Lha volunteer.

The primary aim of the event was to motivate the students by giving them essential tips on how to become good learners. Mr Gyaltsen explained to students how to foster the right mindset for learning. He

emphasisedthat real learning takes place only when students step out of

Mr Gyaltsen la speaking to students at TCV Sujua School Photo:Contact/Lha

their comfort zones. He also stressed the need to treat failures and mistakes

as a part of the learning process.

His talk was followed by a lively question and answer session with the students. Around 250 students attended and the school expressed their appreciation. Mr Gyaltsen studied for his MPhil at the University of Cambridge in England, and his EdM from Columbia University in America. He has many years of teaching experience and has completed a research project Teachers’ Attitudes towards Ability Grouping in Tibetan School Context. Currently he is volunteering at Lha Charitable Trust.

HIV Training and Counselling Lha’s Environment and Health Officer Demay Tsering was one of 20 participants from various health centres who took partin a fourday HIV counselling training from November 9 – 12 organised by the Department of Health at the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), in collaboration with the Christian Medical College at Vellore, Chennai.

The CTA Counsellors Training Programme on HIV/AIDS is aimed at health workers including nurses, doctors and social workers among the

Tibetan community in exile.

The training covered an orientation

Group photo of participants at Chennai Photo:Tibet.net

and overview of HIV counselling, including clinical features; pre- and

post-test counselling; risk assessment; counselling children and adolescents living with HIV; mental health aspects of people living with HIV; legal and ethical issues in HIV and universal precautions and home care management.

This is the second time that Demay has taken part in this programme. “I am happy to be able to participate in these Department of Health workshops for health workers, they are of great benefit to the community” said Demay.

Lha is a non-profit organisation based in Dharamshala to provide vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population and people from the Himalayan region.

To find out more, visit our website www.lhasocialwork.org Contact

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NOVEMBER 2015

lha news and projects

The Lha Community Soup Kitchen Needs You!

Lha’s soup kitchen provides healthy and sustaining food to between 50 and 60 people on a daily basis – people who would otherwise go hungry.

We need your help! We are currently seeking funds to buy food for the next year and to support our attempts to make the project self-sustaining for the future.

New refugees arrive in India after an arduous journey, carrying only an armful of personal belongings,and simply cannot afford nutritious food.

Very few receive any financial help

Lha could not provide the services we do withoutthe support of our wonderful volunteers who help in so many ways and inspire us with their enthusiasm.

Every month we ask a volunteer to share thir story. This month Sarah Weber from Switzerland, who was with us for six months, shares her story.

Name: Sarah Weber Volunteer Jobs at Lha:English tutor, teacher & Asst.Volunteer Coordinator I came to volunteer with Lha beginning in May 2015. My initial plan was to stay three months but life sometimes takes unexpected turns and I ended up staying seven months. I grew up in Switzerland where I have been involved in the Tibetan community for over ten years. That saying, I knew how kind and warm hearted the Tibetans are but being here, I have

Lha’s Community Soup Kitchen

from family or friends. As a result many suffer from diseases such as type two diabetes, gastritis, liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and hypertension. We offer them low-cost (only 15 rupees, which is [$] 25 cents or [£] 15 pence) or free meals and clean drinking water.

We are the only community soup kitchen in the Tibetan community with access to clean drinking water.

So far 327 refugees have benefited from this project since its inception four years ago.

We aim to raise $14,400 (£9,500) to cover the cost of a year’s food supply; Lha covers the cost of maintenance, utilities and staff wages, so 100% of your donation will go directly to help provide nutritious food for Tibetan refugees. We welcome sponsorship for a day or a month’s meals: any contribution is appreciated and your small act of kindness will make a huge difference in someone’s life.

To find out more and make a donation please visit: http://www.lhasocialwork.org/lhascommunity-soup-kitchen.html Contact

Sarah Weber on her last day at Lha Photo:Contact/Lha

been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity the locals have for me.

Whenever I stroll through the streets I encounter smiles and open hearts.

The decision process to come to volunteer with the Tibetan community all started with a lovely woman called Tashi. She lives with her husband and her three children in Switzerland and she was the one who introduced me to Tibetan culture for the first time. Every year she would make Momos, Petsel and Khapse for Losar and sometimes she would tell me about her life in Tibet. My sympathy and love for her opened my heart to the plightof Tibet.

I somehow felt strongly connected to that country and its people, even though I had never been there. I enjoy their sense of humour, their passion for life and their compassion for all 15

beings. These are qualities I truly admire in people and I believe that this world would be a better place if all human beings would care for each other and be compassionate. It pains me to know what is happening in Tibet since the occupation and being confronted with the injustice of oppression and the loss of individual freedom, the desire grew in me to do something for the Tibetans and to stand together in solidarity.

So I left Switzerland, not being sure what would await me. Honestly, I was quite nervous and worried that I would not have anything to offer that could be of use. However, already upon arrival I was overwhelmed with the majesty of the Himalayas and the colourful prayer flags took my worries with them upon the wind. It was love at first sight. Since then I have met lots of inspirational people and the work I have been able to do for Lha has been deeply satisfying. Initially, I was supposed to help out with English Conversation Class and tutoring but I ended up being involved in almost all their projects, including teaching an English and German class and ending my volunteer stay as assistant volunteer coordinator. I am humbled by the trust Lha showed in me and they helped me growing as a human being.

I realise that in the future, I want to continue teaching and helping others grow and by doing so, having the chance to grow myself. As His Holiness says “if you contribute to other people’s happiness, you will find the true meaning of life”.

NOVEMBER 2015

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 TYC is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world.

The Tibetan Youth Congress organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organisation publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause.

WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:president@tibetanyouthcongress.org, tyc@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)

The TWA conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors.

WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 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

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute

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 / 223113 EMAIL: info@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 EMAIL: ltwa1970@gmail.com

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. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.

WEB:www.delekhospital.org LOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd, Dharamshala HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 EMAIL: delek@bsnl.in hospitaldelek@yahoo.com

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 Rd, Dharamshala176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stss1999@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: 01892-223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

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Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

SFT is an international NGO that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community.

The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world.

WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 9882786875

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD)

TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns.

WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: CTA, 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, Opposite State Bank of India PHONE: 01892-220992, 988-2323-455 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross Society

The Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation.

WEB: www.redcrosskangra.org LOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244 EMAIL: sharmaopl12345@gmail.com

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet.

WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

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 EMAIL: director@tibetcharity.in

NOVEMBER 2015

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 lessons on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera.

TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am).

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

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a nongovernment, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population.

WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219 PHONE: 01892-220690 EMAIL: learningandideasfortibet@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, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-226627 EMAIL: tccrteam@gmail.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: 9857973026 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 EMAIL: tashu72004@yahoo.com

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 Centre are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.

WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: cudpswm@gmail.com

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.

WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149 EMAIL: nyingtob_ling@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: 7831956680 / 08894435595

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 levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea and many more benefits for volunteers.

LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, Facebook: Anec Peace

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 / 9882673330

BUS SCHEDULE

* Times and prices may vary.

Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.

Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830) Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs245) *from Dharamshala Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) Manali: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150) Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

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 Rs15.

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, Wed only; 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 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034 Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

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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

NOVEMBER 2015

activities and information Upcoming Events Dec 1 : World AIDS Day Dec 8 - 12: His Holiness will give teaching at Hunsur, Karnataka state Dec 10 : Commemoration of Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama Dec 17 -18: Nine bad Omens Dec 19: His Holiness will give teaching at Bylakuppe, Karnataka state Dec 25: Chirstmas Day Jan 1: New Year

BUDDHIST PHILoSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works and Archives WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9-10 am, 11-12noon PHONE: 921-842-2467

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

yoga and reiki Om Yoga, Meditation and Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 8:00am-5:30pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

Sunita Singh Yoga Class

LOCATION: Singh Corner, nr Magic Tree Upper Bhagsu PHONE: 98058-89060 WEB: www.maashakktiyoga.com

Siddhartha Retreat and Yoga Centre LOCATION: Upper Bhagsu PHONE: 098165-65138 WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org

MASSAGE Nature Cure Health Club

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

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Mcleod Ganj Branch Clinic, 1st floor, TIPA Road (2 mins from Main Square) PHONE: 98828-60505 EMAIL: therapycenter@men-tsee-khang.org

Traditional Thai Massage

LOCATION: Opposite the Himachal Govt.

Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com jitthimalaya@gmail.com

Contact

MEDITATION Ocean of Harmony

Taught by an experienced and qualified coach WEB: www.oceanofharmony.org PHONE: (+91) 99798-94585 EMAIL: ohlifeandwellness@gmail.com

Tushita Meditation Center WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Siddhartha Retreat Centre

WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Nag, Near High Sky PHONE: 09816565138 EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in

Taxi services Rinku Taxi Services

LOCATION: Opposite Club House, near Tourist Information Office, Hotel Surya Road PHONE: (+91) 9418687343, 9857030707 WEB: www.rinkutaxihimachal.com

COOKING Lha Tibetan Cooking Classes - for groups LOCATION: Lha Soup Kitchen, Temple Rd, Just below the Dalai Lama’s temple HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-220992

LANGUAGES Tibetan Language Courses

WEB: www.thosamling.com LOCATION: Thosamling Institute, Sidhpur (near Norbulingka) PHONE: 9882455065 EMAIL: thosamling@gmail.com *see ad on opp. page for more information

LRZTP Tibetan Language Program LOCATION: near Mentsekhang, VOT building EMAIL: Lrztp108@gmail.com WEB: www.LRZTP.org *see ad on pg 23

Rita Thakur 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, 98055-96741 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

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken Location:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Rd PHONE: 8679502538 / 98820-04965 EMAIL: contact@esukhia.org

art and museums

Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms Rita Kapoor

Tibet Museum

Indian Cooking Classes

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592-06586 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: The flourishing flora, Opp. TIPA, Dharamkot road, Mcleodganj HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm PHONE: 9882599093 EMAIL: nishaanilsarin@hotmail.com

Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

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

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

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall, Jogiwara Rd 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: 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm

Men-Tsee-Khang Museum

LOCATION: Near CTA, Gangchen Kyishong PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113 EMAIL: info@men-tsee-khang.org HOURS: 9am-5pm. Closed on Sun, 2 and 4th Sat

Form Gallery

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

NOVEMBER 2015

activities and information HEALTH SERVICES Perfect 32 Dental Clinic Dr Natasha Mehra LOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 09218742046 EMAIL: perfect32dentalclinic@gmail.com Tibetan Physiotherapy Clinic LOCATION: Near Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 HOURS: 10am - 5pm (Appointment Bases) PHONE: 98823227383 / 9882321532 EMAIL: jigten17@yahoo.co.in WEBSITE : tibetanphysiotherapy.com Dr Kumar Ayurvedic - Panchkarma WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opp 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: Below Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113 EMAIL: info@men-tsee-khang.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: 7833047078 / 9882320136 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

Contact

Tibet-Related Websites News:

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

News, information and campaigning:

tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exile dalailama.com - for broadcasts of His Holiness’s teachings, his schedule and information about Tibet and the Dalai Lama tchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a nongovernment organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracy tibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-government organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from China studentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independence tibetanreview.net - news, opinions, reviews and information freetibet.org: - UK-based campaigning organisation, also a good news source savetibet.org - international campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projects tibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people

Writings:

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

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NOVEMBER 2015

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

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HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE

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

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

Dr Mobile Shop

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Phone: 01892-220567 Cell: 9418236603 Jogiwara Rd (Map #12) Email: tseringd@aushimview.com

Pema Thang Guest House

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

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Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously clean; minutes from the Main Temple and McLeod Ganj Market; Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #15 Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net NOVEMBER 2015

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Contact

21

NOVEMBER 2015

advertisements Locations of important places around McLeod Ganj

BHAGSU NAG

Map not to scale

See Advertisement Pages for details of advertisers

TIPA

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DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Naddi Village

Tushita Centre

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

12

11

McLEOD GANJ

22

4

6 7

5 MAIN SQUARE

3

Cantt Police Post

Main Bazaar

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89

1 Lha

16

10 15 14

2

13

Road to Dharamshala

1. Lha Headquarters 2. Namgyal Cafe 3. Common Ground Cafe 4. Dream Holidays Travel 5. Shangrila Hotel 6. Nature Cure Health Club 7. Dr Mobile, Woeser Bakery 8. Black Tent Cafe 9. Carpe Diem Restaurant 10. Perfect 32 Dental Clinic 11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture 12. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel

13. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen 14. Chonor House 15. Pema Thang 16. Rinku Taxi Service 17. Central Tibetan Administration, Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Tibetan Library 18. LRZTP Tibetan Language Program 19. Tibetan Museum and Temple 20. Tibetan Handicraft Centre 21. Taste of India 22. SnowLion Custom Tattoo

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17 18

Road to Dharamshala

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

Namgyal Cafe

9am to 7pm - Closed on Monday Below “Black Magic Hotel” on Jogiwara Rd - Map # 7 The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged

Dream Holidays Since 1998

Ground Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square, McLeod Ganj (3rd office inside Mall) - Map #4 +Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements +AC/Non-AC cars jeeps for tours +Flight/Rail tickets, hotel reservations contact: 98160-87878 / 94180-97149, vineet_dream@yahoo.com

NEED A DENTIST?

with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map # 2 • • • •

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

Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm Mobile: 9882649768

Nature Cure Health Club

Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 6 Mobile: 07833047078 Email: mahinder_m@hotmail.com,

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Call: 09218742046 perfect32dentalclinic@ gmail.com Contact

22

NOVEMBER 2015

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23

NOVEMBER 2015

ལྷ་བོད་ཀྱི་ལུགས་མཐུན་བཟོ་ཚོང་ལས་ཁང་།

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What we have?

Hand-made woollen carpets, singing bowls, jewellery, goods made from recycled paper, Tibetan home decor pieces and many more!

Why LTFT?

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

What we do?

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

Drop-in at our store at LHA office, Mon-Sat Phone: +91 (0) 98823-23455 / 1892-220992

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Lha Tibet Fair Trade To advertise call Lha office: 01892-220992 or visit Lha office at Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj Map #1

Follow Contact website using the QR code!

Tibet Fair Trade འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

Contact Newsletter

Managing Director Ngawang Rabgyal Editor-in-Chief Jenny James Editor Tenzin Samten Assistant Editor Tsering Wangdue Reporter Dorji Kyi 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:editor@contactmagazine.net Facebook: ContactNews Twitter: @ContactTibet Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamshala Phone: 222390 Email:ippdsala@gmail.com