MEETING WITH INDIAN COLLEGE STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN THE GURUKUL PROGRAMME:

Meeting with Indian College Students Participating in the Gurukul Programme

On 20th June 2024, the TYC General Secretary, Sonam Tsering la, along with other NGO representatives, met with Indian college students participating in the Gurukul Programme of the Delhi-based Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The meeting, held at the TYC office, included a briefing on TYC and the overall Tibetan freedom movement.

 

The NGO representatives answered a wide range of questions posed by the participants on critical human rights issues in Tibet and the exile freedom movement. At the request of one of the participants, the TYC General Secretary recited two of his poems that portray the challenges faced by Tibetans in exile and their spirit of activism.

 

The organizing representative thanked TYC for providing the venue and expressed their gratitude to the representatives for their time and resources.

 

THE INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF TORTURE

The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

On June 26, 2024, the Tibetan Youth Congress, in collaboration with the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, Students for a Free Tibet, and the Tibetan Women’s Association, commemorated the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The event featured a panel discussion with former political prisoners, commencing with an introductory address by Miss Tenzin Dawa la, the director of TCHRD, followed by insights from Miss Phurbu Dolma, a researcher at the Centre, who presented 20 case studies of former Tibetan political prisoners. The discussion then shifted to a panel comprising five former political prisoners moderated by TYC General Secretary, Mr. Sonam Tsering la. The panel commenced with a video message from Nyima Lhamo la, the niece of the late Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche.

The five invited political prisoners included Geshi Tsering Dorji, a student of the late Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche; Lobsang Yonten, who endured over 17 years in prison; Gedhun Rinchen; Sherab Gyatso; and Geshe Ngawang Delek. Each shared their harrowing experiences of inhumane torture endured in prison. Following a Q&A session with attendees, the event concluded with words of gratitude from Mrs. Tsering Dolma la, the President of the Tibetan Women’s Association.

 

 

ALL INDIA – MARTYRS MEMORIAL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

All India- Martyrs Memorial Basketball Tournament

In 1998, in conjunction with the 10th March, the Tibetan Youth Congress organized a unto death hunger strike in New Delhi with three demands. Among the participants in the second batch was Pawo Thupten Ngodup la, who self-immolated, becoming the first Tibetan to do so. On the 29th of March, Pawo Thupten Ngodup la passed away, and since then, the Tibetan Youth Congress observes this day annually as Martyrs’ Day, organizing various activities.

 

The RTYC Dharamshala has organized a basketball tournament for many years, and this year marked the 21st edition, which was also the first all-India tournament. The event had three primary aims:

  1. To raise awareness about the contributions made by Tibetan martyrs and instill a sense of patriotism and nationalism among the youth participants.
  2. To foster closer engagement of Tibetan youth with the Tibetan Youth Congress and involve them in activities related to the Tibetan cause.
  3. To promote and preserve unity and integrity among Tibetans.

 

The organizing committee arranged accommodations for the participating teams in the Tibetan Children’s Village, Lower Dharamshala. On the afternoon of April 24, a meeting was held with the players, where TYC General Secretary Mr. Sonam Tsering welcomed them and discussed the tournament’s objectives and the significance of TYC activities in the exile community, followed by team introduction by the respective team captains. RTYC Dharamshala President Jampa Tendar briefed the players on the rules and regulations, and team shuffling was led by Mr. Gawa, the sports secretary of RTYC Dharamshala.

The tournament began on April 25, coinciding with the 35th birth anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama, Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Thinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo, the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama. The opening ceremony featured TYC Vice President Mr. Tashi Targyal la as the chief guest, alongside Mr. Karma Sichoe la and Mr. Yungdung la, participants of the 1998 TYC hunger strike. Mr. Sonam Tsering la highlighted the tournament’s aims, and Mr. Tashi Targyal la spoke about the importance of youth participation in the movement and the critical situation inside Tibet. After which, the participants from different parts of India were presented with traditional Tibetan scarves.

 

RTYC Dharamshala Secretary Mr. Tenzin Lobsang la read a Tibetan statement, and RTYC member Tenzin Choekyi hosted the ceremony. The event included a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the 11th Panchen Lama’s birthday and a minute of silence to honor Tibetan martyrs.

 

For the first time in exile basketball history, live streaming was provided from the quarter-finals onward, allowing interested viewers worldwide to follow the tournament. The final match was scheduled for April 29, Martyrs’ Day, but was postponed due to heavy rain in Dharamshala.

The final match was held on April 30. The Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel la, attended as the chief guest, with TYC Vice President Mr. Tashi Targyal la as the special guest. Amongst the guest standing committee members of the Tibetan Parliament, TYC former centrex members and the representatives of the other organizations were present. The chief guest and the guest of honour addressed the gathering by emphasizing on the needs of unity and youth participation in the freedom movement. The Gangkyi basketball ground was filled with spectators in huge number and the final match was between the Red Devils and the Dharamshala Thuboe team, while the girls’ match featured the Munsel Team against the Sarah Team. The Munsel Team and the Red Devils emerged victorious.

 

The chief guest and the guest of honor presented trophies and prizes to the winners and mementos to the officials. The event was a huge success, with participation from various regions, including North-East, South, North, and Central India. A representative team from the Tibetan Transit School, newly arrived from Tibet, made a memorable appearance in traditional Tibetan dress (Chupa) at the opening ceremony.

 

 

 

TIBETAN YOUTH CONGRESS EXECUTIVE MEMBER SPEAKING TOUR ALL OVER THE INDIA, ENGAGED WITH ALL CHAPTERS IN TIBETAN SETTLEMENTS AND INSTITUTIONS.

Tibetan Youth Congress President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Organizational Secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la conducted a productive official speaking tour of South India, engaging with various chapters in Tibetan settlements and institutions.

Mainpat Tibetan Settlement (April 8, 2024)

President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la commenced their tour in Mainpat Tibetan Settlement on April 8, 2024. RTYC Mainpat organized an internal meeting with the regional executives. The day began with visits to all local monasteries, followed by a public gathering at 10:30 AM. This event was attended by the TSO Mainpat, the President of the Cooperative Society, regional presidents, executives, and members of the public. They engaged with the audience through a Q&A session. Later, they visited old age homes and schools within the settlement.

Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Studies:

At the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Studies, TYC President and the Organizational secretary led interactive sessions with faculty members and students, addressing questions from the audience. Attendees included Tibetan MP Rigzen Lhundup la, Principal Tenzin Passang, and other faculty members and students.

Bangalore (April 13, 2024)

On April 13, RTYC Bangalore hosted a public talk at the Bangalore Tibetan Youth Hostel with president Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la. The centrex executives addressed the audience and responded to queries. This was followed by an internal meeting with RTYC Bangalore executive members. Appreciated they voluntary services and encouraged them to continue their effort.

Hunsur Tibetan Settlement

The TYC leaders visited the Hunsur Tibetan Settlement, meeting with the Settlement Officer and other dignitaries. They delivered a public talk during a Mani prayer gathering in the Settlement Hall. They also met with the abbot of Gyudmed Tantric University and former RTYC member and current Tibetan Parliament member in exile, Kungo Migyur Dorjee, updating him on TYC activities.

Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement (April 17-20, 2024)

From April 17-20, Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la conducted a successful public speaking tour in the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement. Their activities included meetings with the settlement officer and Tibetan Members of Parliament, talks on the critical situation in Tibet at schools, public engagements, and interactive Q&A sessions. The tour concluded with the successful election of new regional chapter members on April 20, 2024. Former TYC Centrex and current Tibetan MP Chomphel Thupten la and Kunchok Yarphel la attended the election. Eleven executive members were elected, with Thupten Rabten elected as president. The TYC Central Executive extends its best wishes for a successful tenure.

 

Mundgod Tibetan Settlement

President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and Organizational Secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel had a four-day speaking tour in the Mundgod Tibetan Settlement. They visited each village, met with the public, and addressed the critical situation in Tibet. On the final day, they toured the Mundgod RTYC office, where regional working committee members briefed them on their activities. They also visited Mundgod Sambhota School, delivered a talk on the situation in Tibet, and introduced TYC’s campaign activities. This was followed by a Q&A session with students. The school principal, Namgyal la, along with the director and teachers, attended the discussion.

Mangalore:

The TYC President and Organizational Secretary participated in the 35th Birth Anniversary event hosted by RTYC Mangalore. They delivered a speech highlighting the significant contributions of the previous Panchen Rinpoche and discussed the current critical situation in Tibet.

Odisha Tibetan Settlement:

As part of their tour, Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel visited the Odisha Settlement, where they delivered a public address focusing on the current situation in Tibet and responding to public inquiries. Attendees included the Tibetan settlement officer, the Speaker of the Local Tibetan Assembly, the President of the Regional Freedom Movement, Katok Tulku, the School Principal, and RTYC Odisha members.

Sambhota Chandragiri School:

The TYC President and organizational secretary visited Sambhota Chandragiri School to discuss the current situation in Tibet and introduce TYC’s campaign activities. The visit included a Q&A session with students. The school principal, Samdup Dorjee, welcomed them with a traditional Tibetan scarf and delivered a thank-you speech.

The chapter visit by TYC President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and organizational secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel was highly successful in raising awareness about the critical situation in Tibet and strengthening the engagement of regional chapters and the general public in the Tibetan freedom movement.

TYC Speaking Tour in North India:

Tibetan Youth Congress Vice President Mr. Tashi Targyal la and Joint Secretary Mr. Tsering Choephel la embarked on a month-long tour of TYC chapters in North India, starting with the Bir Tibetan Settlement.

Bir Tibetan Settlement (April 10, 2024)

On April 10, 2024, the RTYC Bir organized a public meeting with Mr. Targyal Targyal la and Mr. Tsering Choephel la. They discussed the significance of TYC’s political campaign work and raised awareness about the critical situation in Tibet. The meeting concluded with the presentation of appreciation scarves them by the meeting attandees. Notable attandees included former centrex member Mr. Tsewang Rabgyal la , the Tibetan settlement officer, the Speaker of the Local Assembly, the President of the Cooperative Society, and members of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Bir.

 

Shimla (April 11, 2024)

The next day, a public gathering organized by the Regional Chapter Shimla was held. The Vice President and Joint Secretary delivered a public talk, addressing the critical situation in Tibet, particularly the Chinese government’s implementation of policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity by forcefully enrolling Tibetan children in colonial-style boarding schools. This was followed by a Q&A session.

Paonta Tibetan Settlement (April 12, 2024)

On April 12, the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary spoke at a public meeting organized by the Regional Chapter in Paonta Tibetan Settlement. They highlighted the urgent situation in Tibet and emphasized the importance of public involvement in the Tibetan freedom movement. The talk was attended by local dignitaries, and the visit included a tour of the local school, cooperative society, and nearby monastery.

Purwala Tibetan Settlement (April 13, 2024)

On April 13, they visited Purwala Tibetan Settlement and gave a public talk. The discussion focused on the need for public participation in freedom movement activities and encouraged continuous support for regional chapter initiatives. The visit also included short visit to local schools and monasteries.

Herbertpur (April 14, 2024)

In Herbertpur, Mr. Tashi Targyal la and Mr. Tsering Choephel la delivered a public talk attended by a large audience, including former TYC Centrex member and former Health Kalon, Kungo Choekyong Wangchuk. They also visited local old age homes.

Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement (April 15, 2024)

On April 15, a public talk at Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement was hosted by RTYC Dekyiling. The leaders highlighted TYC’s campaign activities and the critical situation in Tibet. Former executive member Tsewang Dolma la and other dignitaries attended alongside TYC members. They also visited Gepheling in Dekyiling and delivered a public talk there.

Rajpur (April 16, 2024)

In Rajpur, Mr. Targyal and Mr. Choephel conducted a public talk and played a crucial role in restoring the 14th term regional chapter by holding elections on April 20, 2024.

TCV Selakui (April 16, 2024)

The same day, they addressed the critical situation in Tibet and TYC’s campaign activities at TCV Selakui. The gathering included teachers and students from TCV Selakui and students from ITI. A Q&A session followed the talk.

Mussouri Tibetan School (April 17, 2024)

On April 17, they gave a talk at Mussouri Tibetan School, attended by staff and students in large numbers. The discussion centered on TYC’s campaign work and the situation in Tibet, especially focusing on the colonial boarding schools. A Q&A session followed.

Nainital (April 19, 2024)

On April 19, the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary delivered a public talk in Nainital. Representatives from regional associations and members of the Nainital Regional Tibetan Youth Congress attended the gathering.

The tour by the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary highlighted the pressing issues in Tibet and strengthened the engagement and involvement of regional chapters and the general public in the Tibetan freedom movement.

 

COMMEMORATION OF 65TH TIBETAN NATIONAL UPRISING DAY

Commemoration of the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day in Dharamshala

In Dharamshala, the Tibetan Youth Congress, in collaboration with the Tibetan Women’s Association, National Democratic Party of Tibet, and Students for Free Tibet, united to honor the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day. Preparatory meetings were diligently conducted to draft a joint statement in English, Tibetan, and Hindi, outlining campaign actions to be undertaken on March 10th.

Posters were distributed across Dharamshala to raise awareness among tourists and to remind Tibetans of the significance of this historic date.

On March 3rd, volunteers from Dharamshala congregated at TYC office to inscribe slogans and demands on placards and banners. Hand-written banners symbolized our collective commitment to the cause, fostering a sense of solidarity and activism against Chinese repression.

 

After a month of meticulous planning and placard preparations, we marked the 10th March Tibetan National Uprising Day by distributing flags, slogan pamphlets, and the joint statement. Participants’ faces were adorned with Tibetan flags and symbols, reflecting the struggles endured during our years in exile. The atmosphere surrounding the Temple area on March 10th was charged with inspiration, as flags fluttered and slogans reverberated among Tibetans.

 

Following the official program at the Dalai Lama Temple, we embarked on a march to Kacheri, with thousands of Tibetans chanting slogans in unison. The peace march witnessed participation from the broader Tibetan community, including nuns, students, and monks from nearby institutions.

 

Upon arrival at Kacheri, after an arduous hour-long march under the blazing sun, we commenced the program by honoring the Tibetan and Indian national anthems, followed by a minute of silence to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Tibetan martyrs.

 

Subsequently, commemorative songs were sung, and the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress delivered a poignant speech on behalf of the four NGOs. He conveyed greetings and voiced grievances over the ongoing suffering of Tibetans under Chinese repression, emphasizing the necessity for continued protests to denounce Chinese occupation and amplify the voices of Tibetans inside Tibet. Gratitude was expressed to the government and Tibet support groups for their unwavering support to the Tibetan cause.

 

The President of the National Democratic Party of Tibet, Mr. Tashi Dhondup, then read the Tibetan statement, followed by Miss Tenzin Passang, National Director of Students for a Free Tibet India, who read the English statement. The event, hosted by the President of the Tibetan Women’s Association, was a resounding success, attracting a large public turnout and reaffirming our collective commitment to the cause of Tibet.

 

 

65th Tibetan National Uprising Day Commemoration in Delhi

The 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day was commemorated in Delhi with a peaceful rally from Janpath Metro Station to Jantar Mantar. The event was jointly organized by TYC Centrex, along with RTYC Rohini, RTYC Delhi Samyeling, and RTYC Chandigarh, SFT Delhi, RTWA, BTSM, ITCO, and VTag members.

 

During the rally, participants raised slogans highlighting the critical situation inside Tibet and demanded the Chinese communist regime to halt its forced relocation policies and damming projects in Tibet. The gathering was marked by passionate speeches, with Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la, the Organizational Secretary of Tibetan Youth Congress, emphasizing the significance of commemorating this important date and the importance of our collective efforts in fulfilling the aspirations of Tibetans inside Tibet through organized campaign activities.

 

Mr. Pankaj Goyal, the General Secretary of BTSM, along with Professor Anand from JNU, Mr. Vijay Kranti, and Venerable Archaya Yeshi Phuntsok, former Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, also addressed the gathering, condemning the Chinese regime’s continued repression in Tibet.

 

A significant number of Tibetans participated in the protest rally to honor the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day.

 

On March 11th, more than 40 activists from the Tibetan Youth Congress staged a protest in front of the Chinese Embassy, demanding an end to the forced relocation and damming projects in Tibet, and calling for an end to Chinese repression in the region. Amidst the bustling traffic, our activists raced towards the embassy, holding placards condemning Chinese oppression in Tibet and advocating for freedom in the region. They were subsequently detained but later released in the late afternoon.

In recognition of their dedication, a Khatak was offered to them by the organizations and associations in front of the Samyeling Monastery, where the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress emphasized the importance of such protest campaigns in demonstrating solidarity with Tibetans inside Tibet and amplifying their voices on the international stage.

 

 

 

 

LOSAR CELEBRATION IN DHARAMSHALA

Losar Celebration in Dharamshala

Like in previous years, the Tibetan Youth Congress organized a vibrant Losar 3rd Day Celebration in Dharamshala. The day commenced with a serene Sangsol prayer offering at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. Esteemed Indian dignitaries, including Shri Kishan Kapoor, Member of Parliament, and Shri Ajit Nehria Ji, President of the Indo-Tibet Friendship Association, graced the occasion alongside former Tibetan Youth Congress centrex members and Settlement Officer Mr. Kunchok Migmar, among others. During the opening ceremony, Tibetan Youth Congress President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup conveyed heartfelt Losar greetings to Tibetans worldwide and provided a succinct overview of the event’s aims and objectives.

 

Shri Ajit Nehria Ji, in his address, extended warm wishes to the Tibetan community on this auspicious occasion, acknowledging and commending the Tibetan Youth Congress for orchestrating such a significant event during Losar.

Subsequently, Shri Kishan Kapoor Ji expressed gratitude to TYC for fostering camaraderie among the Tibetan community through the celebration of Losar. The event continued with captivating dance performances by Norling and Dhasa Dora Tamo dance groups, accompanied by impressive solo performance by some of the singers. Following the morning program, TYC generously provided lunch to all attendees free of cost, fostering a sense of community. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed games and dance performances, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Overall, the event was a resounding success, with numerous individuals expressing appreciation and gratitude to the Tibetan Youth Congress for fostering unity and preserving the rich traditions and culture of Tibet during Losar.

 

TYC NORTH AMERICA WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING:

TYC North America Working Committee Meeting:

On December 3rd, 2023, the President and General Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress were warmly received at JFK Airport by the New York and New Jersey Regional Tibetan Youth Congress President and other members. The following day, they visited esteemed former TYC Centrex member and historian, Jamyang Norbu La, providing updates on ongoing campaign activities.

On December 6th, TYC expressed gratitude to Thupten Choenyi La, presenting a thank-you memento for his exceptional commitment to the cause of Tibetan Independence. President Gonpo Dhundup la participated in his one-day program, culminating in an evening public talk in Phildelphia.

 

20th North America Working Committee Meeting:

From December 9th to 11th, the three-day 20th North America Working Committee Meeting took place in New York. The opening ceremony featured TYC founding member Kalon Trisur Kungo Tethong Tenzin Namgyal la, Gen Jamyang Norbu la, Kungo Kunga Tashi la, and other former TYC Centrex members and the representatives of the NGOs. The meeting involved thorough reviews of chapter budgets, discussions on various agendas, and the adoption of crucial resolutions for the upcoming year. The event concluded with certificate presentations to participants and volunteers, followed by captivating cultural performances by the participants.

 

On December 11th participants of the North America Working Committee meeting protest outside the United Nations, condemning human rights abuses and genocide in Tibet. The protest was led by RTYC NY&NJ.

 

Minnesota Visit:

On December 15th, the TYC President and General Secretary were warmly received at Minneapolis airport by the RTYC Minnesota President and Vice President. The visit was in connection with the 25th Founding Anniversary of the RTYC Minnesota. On December 18th, they were invited as Chief Guests for the anniversary celebration, addressing critical situations inside Tibet and highlighting TYC campaign activities.

 

On December 16th, the TYC President and General Secretary visited TAFM’s Tibetan Culture School, addressing students during their morning assembly and touring classrooms.

 

 

On December 29th, TYC leadership, in collaboration with former RTYC New York and New Jersey members, met with New Jersey TYC members and former RTYC NY&NJ Working Committee members. Discussions centered on the pressing situation in Tibet and ongoing TYC activities. On December 31st, they engaged in a successful discussion and donation drive, strengthening campaign efforts. The meeting was attended by some of the former Centrex members, RTYC NY&NJ members along with representatives of the New York-based NGOs.

 

The year concluded with the TYC President and General Secretary attending the New Year’s Eve party organized by RTYC NY&NJ, where they served as Chief Guests.

 

The month-long series of events in the US concluded with a commitment to the Tibetan cause, reinforcing ties with regional chapters, honoring dedicated individuals, and strategically planning for the year ahead.

TAIWAN FOUNDATION FOR DEMOCRACY DELEGATES VISITS TIBETAN YOUTH CONGRESS OFFICE

Tibetan Youth Congress had the privilege of hosting the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy delegate, President Haung Yu-Lin & Deputy Director Wu Ping-Tsung at the TYC office accompanied by Representative Kelsang Gyaltsen Bawa la. We discussed our yearly activities, Tibetan activism, and our vision for the future.
We’re thrilled to share that they were impressed by our work and commitment. We’re looking forward to future collaborations and their invaluable support.

Together, we can make a difference! 🕊️

TYC’S GENERAL SECRETARY, SONAM TSERING LA WAS INVITED AS THE CHIEF GUEST DURING THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF A CONFERENCE OREGANIZED BY THE RTYC SARAH

TYC’s General Secretary, Sonam Tsering La, was invited as the Chief Guest during the closing ceremony of a conference organized by the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Sarah.

 

During his address, the General Secretary stressed the need to protect and safeguard Tibetan culture, particularly in the face of ongoing cultural challenges and potential cultural genocide in Tibet. His speech resonated with the attendees, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation and awareness.

 

As a token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication exhibited by the RTYC Sarah members, General Secretary Sonam Tsering La presented them with certificates of appreciation.

 

Gen Tsangtruk Top La, a Senior Lecturer on Tibetan History at the College for Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarah, provided insights into the importance of preserving  Tibetan culture. The Vice Principal of Sarah College also addressed the students, adding his perspectives to the discussions regarding the importance of preserving Tibetan heritage.

 

ASIA REGIONAL MEETING -JAPAN

Tibetan Youth Congress president Gonpo Dhundup joined a 3-day Asia Conference in Tokyo, Japan, organized by ITN. The event provided a crucial space for Tibetan activists and allies to have impactful discussions, evaluate the movement’s advancements, and strengthen our worldwide connections. The conference was also attended by the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Delhi Samyeling president along with other Tibetan NGO representatives, Tibetan supporters, and activist across the globe.

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