Dharamshala: The three-day Tibetan Cultural Festival, organised by the Department of Information and International Relations (CTA), commenced this morning at 11 a.m. at the Police Ground in Dharamshala. The festival was formally inaugurated by Sikyong Penpa Tsering, whose swearing-in ceremony for his second term as head of the 17th Tibetan Kashag, (Cabinet), took place just yesterday, making this cultural celebration the first event of his renewed mandate.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, with Shri Sudhir Sharma, Member of the Legislative Assembly of the Himachal Pradesh government, attending as one of the chief guests. The gathering also included MP Kerry McCarthy of the Labour Party and former Government Minister, MP Wera Hobhouse of the Liberal Democrats and APPG Tibet Member, from Latin America, Deputy Luis Fabian Mala from Chile and Deputy Jose Francisco of El Salvador, former Indian military officers, members of the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association based in Dharamshala. Representing the Central Tibetan Administration were the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, and secretaries from various departments of the Administration.

Despite the warm weather that has settled over Dharamshala in recent days, a bright and sunny morning provided a fitting backdrop as the ceremony commenced with the lighting of butter lamps before the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama placed on the throne, followed by auspicious prayers offered by monks from Nechung Monastery.

Delivering his address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering said that Himachal Pradesh has been home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Central Tibetan Administration over the last 65 years. Similarly, he expressed gratitude to the Central Government of India for its kind and unparalleled humanitarian support all these years to Tibetans and highlighted that under the leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetans made significant progress as the only exile community in the world that has fully functional democratic polity.

Furthermore, Sikyong urged Tibetans to strengthen support and raise greater awareness about Tibet in India, noting that earlier generations who witnessed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s arrival in India had a deeper understanding of the Tibetan issue than the younger generation today. He emphasised that the changing generations in the country make it essential to renew awareness and engagement on Tibet. He also expressed hope that, in the coming year, the festival and its exhibitions could be taken to different Indian cities to showcase the development and progress achieved by the Tibetan community over the years.

The festival grounds featured a vibrant array of stalls and installations from prominent Tibetan institutions based in Dharamshala, including Mensekhang (the Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute), the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, The Tibet Museum, and non-governmental organisations such as the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy and the Tibetan Women’s Association, among others. Food stalls offering a variety of traditional Tibetan delicacies were also set up within the festival grounds.

The opening day drew a warm turnout from both the local Tibetan community and Indian residents from across the Dharamshala area, who gathered to witness the inaugural cultural performances featuring Tibetan songs and dances presented by school children and artists from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.

The afternoon programme offered further engagement for visitors of all ages, with a dedicated children’s corner organised by Manjushri Educational Services featuring a range of interactive activities for young attendees. Cultural performances continued through the afternoon, and the evening Gorshey (Traditional Tibetan Circle Dance), which is set to be a recurring highlight across all three evenings of the festival. The day’s screenings featured Compassion in Exile, a film on the life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, presented in its Hindi version.

Day two and three of the festival promise an expanded line-up of cultural performances and additional film screenings. The three-day festival is expected to draw large crowds from both the Tibetan exile community and the broader Dharamshala public throughout its run.

Dharamshala: Penpa Tsering, the Sikyong of the 16th Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), was sworn in as the Sikyong of the 17th Kashag earlier this morning at the Tsuglagkhang courtyard in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama following his reelection.

After securing 61.025 per cent of the total votes in the preliminary round of the recently concluded Tibetan general election, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, under a provision of the Election Rules and Regulations that did not require him to contest the final round, was elected as the 6th directly elected Sikyong (formerly known as Kalon Tripa). His new Kashag, the 17th since the establishment of the Central Tibetan Administration (formerly the Tibetan Government in Exile) following the occupation of Tibet by the People’s Liberation Army, will continue the Kashag system—an institutional framework sustained for more than 275 years which is one of the world’s enduring models of continuous governance.

Several respected dignitaries and distinguished international guests attended the ceremony, including a cross-party parliamentary delegation from the United Kingdom comprising MP Chris Law of the Scottish National Party and Chair of the APPG Tibet; MP Kerry McCarthy of the Labour Party and former Government Minister; MP Wera Hobhouse of the Liberal Democrats and APPG Tibet Member; and MP Alicia Kearns of the Conservative Party and former Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

From Latin America, Deputy Luis Fabian Mala of Chile and Deputy Jose Francisc of El Salvador attended the event. Representing India, the host country of the CTA, were Shri Tapir Gao, Member of Lok Sabha and Co-Convenor of the All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet; Shri Sujeet Kumar, Member of Rajya Sabha; and Shri Atya Nanda, Joint Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities.

From the Tibetan side, attendees included Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo; Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel; Sikyong Penpa Tsering; Tibetan Justice Commissioner Dawa Phunkyi; Tibetan Justice Commissioner Phagpa Tsering; Kasur (former Kalon) Changra Tharlam Dolma; Kasur Dolma Gyari; Kasur Norzin Dolma; Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi; Public Service Commissioner Karma Yeshi; Auditor General Tashi Topgyal; members of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; and Secretaries of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Representatives of major Tibetan civil society organisations, CTA staff members, students from nearby Tibetan schools, and members of the general Tibetan public were also among the attendees.

Upon arrival of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama to the dais, the ceremony officially kicked off with a rendition of Tibetan and Indian national anthems. Emceed by the Secretary of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission, Lhaduk, the event then proceeded with an utterance of auspicious words by a group of monks from the Namgyal Monastery. 

I begin by offering my deepest reverence and obeisance of body, speech, and mind to His Holiness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama of Tibet, the apostle of world peace, the manifestation of Avalokiteśvara, the supreme protector and symbol of Tibet, and the Dharma King of the three realms. I express my profound gratitude for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s immeasurable kindness in accepting our supplications and gracing us with your sacred presence at the swearing-in ceremony of the Sikyong of the 17th Kashag, Central Tibetan Administration.

I also extend my heartiest greetings to all our esteemed guests who have travelled long distances specifically to attend this ceremony, to the present and former dignitaries of the Central Tibetan Administration, to the monastic and lay community present here and especially to my fellow Tibetans inside Tibet.

In 2021, when I stood as a candidate for Sikyong, I pledged that I would not be part of any election campaign that could lead to division within our community. Staying true to that commitment, I did not campaign at all during this election. However, with the majority mandate from the public, I was re-elected as the Sikyong for the second term. For that, I express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in the electoral process.

I firmly believe that every accomplishment of the 16^th Kashag in the spheres of politics, administration, and social welfare is solely due to the boundless blessings and far-reaching noble deeds of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama. I also would like to point out the unwavering and timely assistance of the oath-bound protective deities of Tibet, my three colleagues in the Cabinet, each of whom shouldered their respective departmental responsibilities and contributed collectively to the endeavors of the Kashag; the dedicated efforts of the civil servants, and the collective strength of organizations and the monastic and lay communities alike. And in particular, the unyielding commitment of the Tibetan people inside Tibet – their devotion and longing for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and their determination to preserve our National Identity. This remains the main source of inspiration that drives our work. Taking this opportunity, I express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you.

The 17th Kashag reiterates our commitment to keep the thought and counsel of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at its very core. We shall uphold equitable justice founded on rules and regulations; harness collective effort through principled policy implementation, and move forward to achieve common goals. The Kashag will pursue political and social welfare initiatives with the primary goal of long-term sustainability of the Tibetan struggle until a just resolution of the Tibet-China Conflict is achieved.

Given the Chinese government’s current policy direction towards the nationalities, there does not seem to be much space for negotiations. Nevertheless, the 17th Kashag remains firmly committed to the “Middle Way Policy” envisioned by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, which seeks a resolution to the Sino-Tibet conflict through non-violence, dialogue, and mutual benefit that would be lasting. Accordingly, until a resolution is achieved, we will continue the backchannel communications with caution and steadiness with the Chinese government while pursuing strategies to strengthen international recognition and support for the Middle Way Policy.

The United States Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020 authorize sanctions against Chinese officials who interfere in the recognition of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama’s reincarnation. Similarly, the 2024 Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act (“Resolve Tibet Act”) acknowledges Tibet’s historical status and recognizes the Tibet-China dispute as unresolved that needs to be resolved under the international law. In this context, we remain committed to countering disinformation and misleading narratives propagated by the Chinese government regarding His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation and the historical status of Tibet as sovereign state, while providing factual information to strengthen global support for the Tibetan cause.

The most pressing challenge in Tibet today is the Chinese government’s systematic and overarching state-backed implementation of policies aimed at erasing Tibetan National Identity. At the same time, China has deliberately spread misinformation and propaganda to create division within exile communities—including the Central Tibetan Administration, Tibetan organizations, and support groups—thereby weakening the unity of the Tibetan struggle movement. It is therefore essential for all to remain vigilant against such interference. Particularly, those engaged in the Voluntary Tibet Advocacy Group and Support Groups for Tibet must strengthen their awareness, coordinate their efforts, and collectively raise issues of Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity at both international and national levels.

A well-organized administration is must for advancing the cause of Tibet and ensuring services to the community. During the 16th Kashag, E-Governance initiatives have been launched. The 17th Kashag shall further strengthen this initiative by enhancing capacity based on personnel, technology, infrastructure, and institutional systems, while expanding E-Governance through improved data management and database systems. Leveraging information technology and artificial intelligence will enhance advocacy efforts, increase administrative efficiency, improve public service delivery, and strengthen communication with the community—an approach particularly suited to Tibetans living in exile across the globe.

By strengthening the administration’s management systems for collecting, analyzing, and sharing information, and by using all available channels to highlight the Tibetan cause and the aspirations of its people, a communication strategy will be developed to ensure timely and clear outreach to all stakeholders.

Tibetans in exile must not only adhere to the Charter of Tibetans-in-Exile and its governing regulations. But also, compliance with international norms and the laws of host countries is a fundamental promise of our Charter and essential to sustaining our existence in exile. The 16th Kashag has consistently worked to ensure this commitment is effectively implemented across the Tibetan Administration and its autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies. And we will continue to do so. Moreover, living in harmony and in accordance with the law of our host countries is not only vital for a peaceful and stable life, but also a key means of upholding the dignity and values that Tibetan people embody.

Caring for the elderly, the destitute, the sick, and those facing physical and mental hardships is a core principle repeatedly advocated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and an unavoidable responsibility of the Administration. Guided by transparency, equity, efficiency, and sustainability, the Kashag will implement social welfare initiatives, including the completion and management of public infrastructure, youth skill development, school consolidation for greater efficiency, and improved healthcare and preventive services, with special attention to vulnerable groups. At the same time, advancing self-sufficiency within the Central Tibetan Administration and the exile Tibetan community remains critical to sustaining the Tibetan cause. We express our sincere gratitude to all who have contributed to this effort and encourage continued collective action from both organizations and individuals.

The 17th Kashag solemnly pledges to ensure that all official responsibilities are carried out smoothly and that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is not unduly disturbed by the trivial matters of the community and that we continue to win the trust of Tibetans inside Tibet. Since last year, alongside the Ghoton celebrations, many organizations and individuals have offered Long Life Prayers to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The most meaningful offering we can make is to put his teachings into practice. We therefore urge all Tibetans to remember our shared identity as political exiles, set aside differences, foster unity, and fulfil our individual responsibilities toward the common cause of Tibet.

Despite the Chinese government’s systematic efforts to undermine Tibetan national identity, China cannot weaken the Tibetan people’s enduring bond with their homeland. Since the dawn of civilization, Tibetans have remained the rightful custodians of the Land of Snow, sustained by a deep spiritual and cultural connection. We therefore urge Tibetans within Tibet to begin at the household level by nurturing in their children a strong sense of identity rooted in the Tibetan language, religion, and culture.

I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the governments and people of India, the United States, and all our supporters. Your support remains key to the effective continuation of our struggle for truth and justice.

In conclusion, I pray for the long life of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama and may his noble thoughts embodied in the four principal commitments continue to spread across the globe. May the auspicious day of reunion for Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, emerge soon.

Penpa Tsering

Sikyong

27 May 2026

Dharamshala: Deputies Luis Mala Valenzuela of Chile and Jose Francisco Lira Alvarado of El Salvador visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 25 May 2026 and met with Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang.

Welcoming the deputies from Latin America, the Speaker expressed appreciation for the participation of Latin American parliamentarians in the upcoming oath-taking ceremony of the Sikyong, describing it as both significant and symbolic given the exile status of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). He also acknowledged the continued support extended by countries such as India, the United States, several European nations, Latin American countries, and others throughout more than 66 years of Tibetan exile.

The Speaker noted that, alongside sustaining the Tibetan political struggle, the CTA, under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, has succeeded in preserving and protecting Tibet’s distinct cultural heritage while also bringing the Tibetan cause onto the global stage. He further spoke about the critical situation inside Tibet and warned that the newly adopted Ethnic Unity Law could severely impact Tibetan cultural and linguistic heritage by eroding Tibetan identity.

Deputy Speaker Teykhang stated that the visit by the Latin American deputies sends a strong message to the international community that the CTA remains the legitimate representative of Tibetans worldwide. She added that their solidarity visit to Dharamshala demonstrates the importance of upholding international rules and principles regardless of a country’s size or power.

She further remarked that the struggles endured by many Latin American countries against cultural repression, oppression, and injustice deeply resonate with the Tibetan struggle. She emphasized that the issue of Tibet is not merely about occupation, but also about attacks on the fundamental pillars of Tibetan identity which are religion, culture, and language.

The deputies were also given a tour of the parliamentary hall and briefed on the composition and functioning of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.

– Report filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat 

Dharamshala: Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, extended his heartfelt condolences on the passing of former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, a steadfast ally and true champion of the Tibetan people. He passed away at the age of 86 in Maine, United States.

In a letter to Jim Ready, spouse of the late Congressman Barney Frank, the Speaker wrote, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of your beloved partner, former Congressman Barney Frank. On behalf of the Tibetan people and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.”

“Congressman Barney Frank was a long-time friend and admirer of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a steadfast supporter of the Tibetan people for many decades. Through his sponsorship and unwavering support of the Tibetan Resettlement Project under the United States Immigration Act of 1990, nearly 1,000 Tibetans were able to resettle in the United States despite the many challenges and obstacles he faced in advancing the initiative at the time. His compassion and humanitarian vision gave hope and a new beginning to countless displaced Tibetans and made it possible for Tibetans to preserve and practice their culture and traditions freely to this day.”

“The legacy of Congressman Barney Frank will continue to live on in the hearts of the Tibetan people. His contribution toward the welfare and rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees will always be remembered with profound gratitude and respect. We pray for the departed soul and may his soul rest in peace.”

– Filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat 

Dharamshala: At the invitation of the U.S. Ambassador to India, His Excellency Sergio Gor, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), accompanied by Kalon (Minister) Norzin Dolma of the Department of Information and International Relations (CTA) and Representative Jigme Jugney of the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi, attended the Freedom 250: Independence Day Reception in Delhi on 24 May 2026 alongside delegates from various countries.

The reception featured remarks by U.S. Secretary of State Honourable Marco Rubio, Indian External Affairs Minister Honourable Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and U.S. Ambassador to India His Excellency Sergio Gor, as well as a musical performance by renowned Indian artist A.R. Rahman.

Secretary of the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tashi Dekyi, also attended the event alongside the Tibetan delegation.

]]> https://tibet.net/sikyong-penpa-tsering-extends-condolences-on-the-passing-of-congressman-barney-frank/ Mon, 25 May 2026 05:30:54 +0000 https://tibet.net/?p=267093

Dharamshala: In a condolence letter dated 22 May 2026, Sikyong Penpa Tsering conveyed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, a steadfast ally and true champion of the Tibetan people. He passed away at the age of 86 in Maine, United States.

In a condolence letter addressed to Jim Ready, spouse of the late Congressman Barney Frank, Sikyong expressed, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of your spouse, Congressman Barney Frank. On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, I extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones.”

Remembering Congressman Frank’s enduring support for the Tibetan cause, Sikyong noted that he played a pivotal role in the resettlement of Tibetan refugees in the United States. He will be especially remembered for sponsoring the provision in the Immigration Act of 1990 that enabled 1,000 Tibetan refugees to build new lives and find a home in the United States.

Sikyong further stated that through Congressman Frank’s visionary generosity, many Tibetan families were able to provide quality education for their children, sending them to leading universities and empowering them to become self-reliant.

“His unwavering support, commitment to human rights, and enduring friendship toward the Tibetan people will always be remembered with deep gratitude and respect. May he attain a swift rebirth,” Sikyong concluded in his message.

Dharamshala: On 21 May 2026, Sikyong Penpa Tsering inaugurated the two-day YES+ Stakeholder Conference organised by the Youth Empowerment Section (YES+) under the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration, at the Administration Training and Welfare Society Centre in Dharamshala. The conference sought to build a shared understanding of the Tibetan youth workforce and livelihood ecosystem, while identifying key challenges, opportunities, and partnership strategies. It also aimed to strengthen collaboration among organisations and develop a strategic YES+ roadmap for 2026–2030 to guide future community-driven initiatives.

The conference commenced with a ceremonial butter lamp lighting led by Chief Guest Sikyong Penpa Tsering. Also present on the dais were Kashag Secretary Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi, Home Secretary Palden Dhondup, Finance Secretary Tsering Dhondup, Education Secretary Jigme Namgyal, and Health Secretary Jampa Phuntsok. Around 32 participants representing from 22 diverse cross-section of the Tibetan eco-system including training institutions, entrepreneurship platforms, cultural and digital innovation organisations, youth advocacy groups, development partners and CTA representatives.

During his introductory address, Home Secretary Palden Dhondup stated that unemployment among youth has become a growing concern in both independent and non-independent countries. He noted that unemployment among Tibetan youth has also increased and the idea was formulated since 2022 to bring together organisations and individuals working in the field to discuss workforce-related challenges and identify practical solutions for the Tibetan community. He added that the initiative seeks to create a positive impact on the future of Tibetan youth employment.

The Home Secretary further said that the YES+ Youth Empowerment Desk is among the most important sections under the Department of Home, as investing in youth development is key to securing a better future for the Tibetan community. He stressed that youth participation in the workforce and the development of human capital is essential. He also remarked that academic degrees alone do not guarantee employability and highlighted the importance of developing practical skills. According to him, the section plays a crucial role in promoting self-reliance and empowering young Tibetans to contribute to nation-building.

Citing recent Tibetan household statistics, the Home Secretary said that out of 85,000 Tibetans living in exile, around 67 percent are between the ages of 15 and 59 and are eligible to work. Of these, 15.6 percent are unemployed, with many youths remaining jobless after completing their education. He noted that many elderly Tibetans are supported financially by family members abroad, underscoring the need for projects and programmes that can create employment opportunities for Tibetan youth. He added that the conference is the first initiative of its kind aimed at fostering the Tibetan community for future generations.

Following the address, Sonam Tashi, programme head who oversees the YES+ youth empowerment support desk, delivered a presentation introducing the YES+ programme and its future plans. He outlined the desk’s focus on workforce development, partnerships, employability preparedness, the YES portal, and the opening of two new YES Tibetan Career Centre branches in Tibetan settlements of Bylakuppe and Ladakh.

Tenzin Khenrab, Joint Secretary overseeing the management of the YES+ programme, presented findings on sample size Tibetan workforce data. The report focused on the demographic status of Tibetans in exile, school enrolment rates, unemployment trends, global workforce patterns, and the condition of the Tibetan workforce. According to data from the Tibetan household survey conducted in 2023, the population stood at 85,700, comprising 57,000 members and more than 10,000 institutions, including monasteries. The statistics further showed an average birth rate of 420 children annually, compared to a death rate of more than 119. The report also noted a significant decline in school enrolment since 2025, with figures dropping 13,000 from 21,000, marking a 36 percent decrease in 2025.

Tenzin Norsang, principal consultant to the YES+ programme, also spoke on the settlement officer survey, global and Indian workforce trends, and provided a brief assessment of the current state of the Tibetan workforce and human capital.

In his keynote address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering who is also the Kalon (Minister) of Home, extended his greetings to the participants and encouraged them to work towards developing strategic outcomes for the future implementation of the YES+ programme plans. He particularly welcomed non-governmental organisations to independently undertake initiatives that remain beyond the limited capacity of the administration. Sikyong underscored the importance of maintaining precise and reliable data collection within the Tibetan community and administrative work, urging Tibetan NGOs working for community welfare to prioritise preparedness and accurate data collection across all sectors.

Furthermore, Sikyong spoke about the allocation of the Fixed Award Amount (FAA) from the US Department of State since October 2024 to the CTA’s Departments of Home, Education, and Health. Recognising the significance and impact of the YES+ programme, the Department of Home received an allocation of around Rs 5 to 6 crore from the award this year.

Speaking on strengthening the connection between Tibetan youth and the administration, Sikyong highlighted the opportunities and youth-focused initiatives introduced by both the previous and current Kashag, encouraging young Tibetans to make full use of these opportunities and actively participate in the administration. He further advised youth to build confidence in themselves by equipping themselves with broad-based knowledge that would help them create stronger pathways for the future.

Addressing the present trend in the Tibetan job market and the increasing number of youth entering the nursing profession, Sikyong questioned the decline in applicants for accounting positions within the administration despite the continued issue of unemployment. He stressed the need to assess why many professionally trained and specialised individuals eventually secure employment in unrelated sectors.

On the political front concerning the resolution of the Tibet-China conflict, Sikyong reiterated that a solution can only emerge through engagement with the Chinese government and not through intervention from other countries or global actors. He therefore stressed the need for young Tibetans to take full responsibility in initiating their own plans and programmes moving forward. Referring to efforts to reach out to the current Chinese leadership and its hardline policies, Sikyong expressed scepticism regarding the prospects of Sino-Tibet dialogue, while assuring continued efforts through backchannel communication to establish reliable contacts and create the necessary conditions for engagement. He also reaffirmed the Middle Way Approach as the only viable path for resolving the Tibet-China conflict through dialogue with the Chinese government.

Before concluding, Sikyong encouraged everyone to read the current Kashag’s manifesto, “Securing Tibet’s Future,” to better understand the broader vision, work, and long-term goals of the CTA leadership in sustaining the Tibetan people and their cause.

Following the keynote address by Sikyong Penpa Tsering, Additional Secretary Thupten Tsering from the Department of Home delivered vote of thanks. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a brief interactive Q&A session with Sikyong, followed by a group photo session with all participants and stakeholders.

The first YES+ Stakeholder Conference is funded by the US Department of State.

Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering attended the closing ceremony of the two-day conference on Women’s Empowerment in Tibetan Buddhism held at the auditorium of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives in Dharamshala, in his capacity as the incumbent Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Religion and Culture of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

The conference, which commenced on 20 May, was inaugurated by Kyabje Kundeling Tatsak Jedrung Rinpoche. It sought to highlight His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s vision and concrete contributions toward strengthening the education, ordination, and recognition of Buddhist women through institutional and spiritual reforms.

Key discussions over the course of conference focused on the institutionalisation of the Geshema degree, the recognition of 21 Tibetan and Indian female Mahasiddhis, and the possibility of establishing Bhikshuni ordination within the Tibetan Mulasarvastivada Vinaya tradition.

Jointly organised by the Department of Religion and Culture and the Dalai Lama Trust, with support from the Tibetan Nuns Project and the Tibetan Women’s Association, the conference also deliberated on the curriculum development in nunneries, institutional support for the Tibetan Nuns Project, the leadership role of Geshemas in society and monastic institutions, and prospects for greater international recognition of Buddhist women.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were former Kalon Rinchen Khando; Youdon Aukatsang, member of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project; Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture Dhondul Dorjee; Secretary of the Dalai Lama Trust Jamphel Lhundup; His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s longtime English interpreter Geshe Thupten Jinpa; Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives Geshe Lhakdor; President of the Tibetan Women’s Association Tsering Dolma; Ven. Thupten Yarphel; Academic Principal of Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute, Geshema Delek Wangmo; Additional Secretary of the Department of Education (CTA) Tenzin Pema; and Head of the Women’s Empowerment Desk at the Department of Finance (CTA) Tenzin Dolkar, among others.

A total of 86 participants from 13 nunneries across India and Nepal attended the conference, representing all schools and traditions of the Tibetan Buddhism and Yungdrung Bon.

Thekchen Chöling, Dharamshala: This morning, when His Holiness the Dalai Lama reached the gate to his residence, on his way to the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, he was greeted by the President of the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association, Geshé Lobsang Nyendak and former Abbots of Gomang and Gyutö Monasteries, as well as the President of the Dokham Chushi Gangdruk (Four Rivers, Six Ranges) — the first Tibetan voluntary resistance force to defend Tibet. These two organisations were offering prayers for his long life.

As he drove through the temple courtyard His Holiness beamed at members of the two groups of patrons and other well-wishers gathered on either side to greet him.

In the temple, His Holiness’s throne was lavishly decorated with marigold garlands while the table before him was adorned with strings of white champaka flowers. Facing him, and presiding over the ritual was Kundeling Rinpoché. To his right sat the Abbot of Namgyal Monastery; the Abbot of Ganden Shartsé; Khensur Lobsang Khedrup, former Abbot of Gyutö; Khensur Lobsang Gyaltsen, former Abbot of Gomang; and Shartsé Khensur, Jangchub Chöden, who is Secretary General of the International Buddhist Confederation. To Rinpoché’s left sat the Abbot of Ganden Jangtsé, Jigmé Lamsang from Bhutan, as well as the Abbot of Ganden Shartsé, Jangchub Sangyé. In addition to them were representatives of the Nyingma, Sakya, Kagyu and Bön traditions.

The ceremony began with a recitation of ‘Clouds of Ambrosial Blessings’ Trulsik Rinpoché’s invocation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s previous lives. It recalls the religious kings of Tibet, Drom Tön Pema Jungné, Jamyang Chöjé, the founder of Drepung monastery and many others in India and Tibet. The verse that refers to His Holiness’s birth goes:

To you, wondrously born in Taktser,

According to the predictions of Shridevi (Palden Lhamo),

Near the birthplace of Guru Manjunath (Jé Tsongkhapa)

In Dhomay (Amdo), to a family that originated in Central [Tibet]–we pray.

The main ceremony, following the ‘Long Life Ceremony of White Tara of the Wish-Fulfilling Wheel’ by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama, began next. Arising from the white syllable TAM, White Tara was invoked. Her body is as white as the autumn moon. She has one face with three eyes, two arms, and the youthful appearance of a sixteen-year-old. Her right hand is in the gesture of granting sublime accomplishments. Between the ring finger and thumb of her left hand she holds the stem of a white Utpala flower at her heart. She sits legs crossed in the vajra posture. The following prayer was addressed to her:

Blessed one, over countless aeons,

you have trained in compassion out of loving affection.

Your aspirations are vast, your visions complete,

And now is the time to fulfill your pledge to benefit living beings.

A long series of offerings was made to her beginning with water to drink, water to wash the feet, water to wash the face, purifying water (sprinkled to remove obstructive forces), flowers, incense, light, fragrance, food, music, and so forth. There were offerings of garments, ornaments, the seven precious possessions, the seven subsidiary precious possessions, the eight auspicious symbols, the five sense objects — visual forms, music, fragrances, flavours and objects to touch. A parasol, a victory banner and a decorative banner, fabric, and music were also given.

Tara was praised:

Mother ‘Tare’, you liberate beings from samsara.

With ‘tuttare’, you liberate beings from the eight fears.

With ‘tare’, you liberate beings from death.

We prostrate to you, O Tara.

Next, at the heart of the Lama visualized as Tara a white wheel was described. It was of the nature of the moon, with eight spokes and five rims. At its hub was the white seed syllable TAM surrounded by His Holiness’s name mantra — Om Ah Guru Vajradhara Bhattarak Manjushri Vagindra Sumati Jnana Shasana Dhara Samudra Shri Bhadra Siddhi Ayur Punya Jnana Pushtim Kuru.

A series of verses following the pattern of this first stanza invoked the lineage masters of this practice:

Blessed one, Buddha, Lord of the Sages-

We invite you to come to this place.

Having come to this supreme abode,

May you prolong the life of our

Glorious sacred Lama by a hundred aeons.

Please grant him the spiritual accomplishment of an immortal life.

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Satgu Rora Ayur Punya Jnana Pushtim Kuru Svaha

Amitabha, who adorned the head of the Lama, transformed into Amitayus, the protector of immeasurable longevity and primordial wisdom, holding a golden vase filled with the nectar of immortality. A stream of nectar rises, overflowed the vase, and entered the body of the glorious Lama through the opening at the crown of his head. His entire body was filled with nectar, purifying all dangers of disease, negative influences, harmful actions, obscurations, and premature death that appear to impure perception — so the Lama attained the spiritual accomplishment of immortality.

The Lamas conducting the ritual led the congregation of an estimated 5000 people in reciting the mantra Om Tare Tuttare Ture Satgu Rora Ayur Punya Jnana Pushtim Kuru Svaha as many times as possible.

Kundeling Rinpoché, with the former President of the Dokham Chushi Gangdruk and the President of the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association, offered a mandala to His Holiness, requesting him to live long. Representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha, a vase containing the elixir of life, symbols of the Buddhas of the five families, long-life liquor, long-life pills, the seven precious royal emblems, the eight auspicious symbols and the eight auspicious substances were offered as well.

As is customary, the ‘Song of Immortality’, the prayer for His Holiness’s long life composed by his Two Tutors was recited. It contains the following refrain:

To you, we offer our prayers with fervent devotion:

That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the Land of Snows, live for a hundred eons.

Shower on him your blessings

So that his aspirations are fulfilled without hindrance.

Members of the two groups offering prayers today filed through the temple carrying images of the enlightened ones, scriptures and so forth. Their representives approached the throne to receive His Holiness’s blessings.

A heartfelt request was made to His Holiness: “We the Dokham Chushi Gangdruk wish to greet you. We pray that the sun may soon shine once more on Tibet and that we Tibetans may gather together there. 135 monks and nuns have performed longevity rituals for Your Holiness over the last three days.”

An ornamental memento indicating gratitude and respect for His Holiness was presented to him, and its features explained, by representatives of the Dokham Chushi Gangdruk.

Lamas belonging to the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association presented a silver conch with an accompanying citation that His Holiness read. They said: “In connection with the celebrations of His Holiness’s 90th birthday and the Year of Compassion we pray for the welfare of all beings, especially the people of Tibet. This silver conch we offer to you in gratitude.”

Two lay reprentatives of the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association presented His Holiness with a mounted ornamental bodhi leaf telling him that they had inscribed it with words of respect for his work to preserve Tibet’s culture, literature and natural environment. “Protector of the beings and teachings of Tibet, may all your good wishes be fulfilled.”

Members of the Chushi Gangdruk sang songs composed by the Sixth Dalai Lama, including the famous prediction about his successor “White crane! Lend me your wings, I will not fly far, From Lithang, I shall return.”

His Holiness was presented with a thanksgiving mandala in gratitude for his agreement to live long. There followed a prayer to Amitayus, deity of longevity, and a recitation of ‘The Sage’s Harmonious Song of Truth — A Prayer for the Flourishing of the Teachings of the Buddha without Sectarianism’, that includes the verse:

May the lives of the masters who uphold these teachings be secure and harmonious!

May the sangha preserve these teachings through their study, meditation and activity!

May the world be filled with faithful individuals intent on following these teachings!

And long may the non-sectarian teachings of the Buddha continue to flourish!

The ceremony concluded with the prayer of the ‘Words of Truth’.

As His Holiness was leaving the temple he beaconed two young tulkus to him and gave them words of encouragement. Similarly, as he walked to the lift, he paid particular attention to elderly and young members of the crowd, but all the while keeping a smile for everyone lining the way.