Black Hat March | Day 6 : From Padhar to Mandi

Day 6 began early at 5:00 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s program. Shortly thereafter, the march commenced.

On the way to Mandi, the marchers were graciously hosted for lunch at a Gurudwara by members of the Sikh community, who warmly served meals to all.

At around 2:00 PM, the marchers arrived in Mandi, where they received a heartfelt welcome from several dignitaries and members of the local Tibetan community. Among those present were Lhamo Choedon, Coordinator Secretary, Mandi Tibetan Settlement Office; Ngawang Dhondup, former President, BRDL Mandi; Yeshi Dorjee, Vice President, LTA Mandi; and Tashi Tsewang and Tashi Phuntsok, Members of LTA Mandi.

The marchers were also welcomed by members of the Tibetan community in Mandi, including TSO Pema, as well as Shri Danesh Kumar from the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Society, Mandi, who kindly facilitated a press briefing on the Black Hat March campaign.

The day concluded with a night stay at Guru Gobind Singh Gurudwara in Mandi, where the marchers were served a wholesome meal of rajma chawal, bringing the day to a warm and fulfilling close.

 

Black Hat March | Day 5: From Bir to Padhar

The fifth day of the Black Hat March commenced at 5:00 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee on the day’s planned activities.

Although there were no Tibetan settlements along the route, the marchers felt a strong sense of support from well-wishers between Bir and Padhar as they continued their journey through Himachal Pradesh.

On the way to Padhar, the marchers had the opportunity to interact with members of the press and media. This engagement was made possible with the support of former Deputy Speaker Kungo Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, Shri Raj Thakur (ITFS member and businessman), and RTYC Chauntra President Sonam Yougyal.

One powerful reflection from a second-generation marcher deeply resonated with all:

“Why did I join the Black Hat March? Because I am concerned that if we do not continue to struggle for our cause, the new generation may forget our nation’s cause. That is why I joined this campaign, and my children will join in the future. This has become an example for them — a moment of pride.”

Despite facing a thunderstorm and heavy rain, the marchers’ spirits remained unshaken. The day’s journey concluded successfully upon reaching Padhar, marking another determined step forward in the movement.

Black Hat March | Day 4: From Tashijong to Bir

Day 4 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM with prayer meetings, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s activities.
At around 9:30 AM, the marchers were warmly welcomed at the Ghatta Kangra–Mandi border by representatives of the Bir Local Assembly, the Bir Tibetan Settlement Officer, the Chauntra Tibetan Settlement Officer, RTYC Bir, RTYC Chauntra, and Chauntra Zabsang Choekharling Monastery. Special thanks are extended to RTYC Chauntra President, Mr. Yougyal la, for arranging a press meeting for the Black Hat March.

On the way to Bir, Namlang Resort generously hosted tea for all the marchers. Along the route, members of the Tibetan community from Dergey greeted the marchers with heartfelt warmth at Bir market.

By 1:30 PM, the marchers reached the Bir Tibetan Settlement, where a large gathering warmly received them. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the community, stating “We are responding to the Chinese Communist Party that we will continue our struggle to reclaim our country — even if it takes generations.”

Notably, the marchers reached their destination faster than in the previous three days, driven by the strength of their shared purpose. Every step felt lighter with hearts united in one goal — a Free Tibet.

The day concluded with dinner hosted by RTYC Bir, ending on a note of hope and determination that freedom is not far away.

 

The Tibetan Youth Congress extends heartfelt gratitude to the Bir Tibetan Settlement, RTYC Bir, and RTYC Chauntra for their generous support in providing accommodation and dinner. Special thanks are also due to the Regional Tibetan Health Dispensary for donating medical kits, and to the TCV Suja students for offering relaxing massages to the marchers. Sincere appreciation is extended to Namlang Resort and the Tibetan community of Bir for their kind donations and unwavering support.

Black Hat March | Day 3: From Gopalpur to Tashijong

 Day 3 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM with a prayer meeting followed by a briefing from the organizing committee. The march commenced from TCV Gopalpur School.

At around 9:00 am, the TYC marchers received a warm welcome from the former MLA of Palampur, Shri Parveen Kumar, along with his colleagues, who honored them with traditional Indian scarves as a gesture of solidarity with the Tibetan movement.

 

 

At approximately 11:00 am, the President, Vice President, and Joint Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, along with the RTYC Puruwala President and a few marchers, met with former Union Minister of the Government of India and the third Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Shanta Kumar. A long-time friend of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Shri Shanta Kumar, even at the age of 91, continues to express steadfast support for the Tibetan cause. The delegation shared the objectives of the Black Hat March and conveyed deep gratitude for his enduring solidarity with the Tibetan people.

By 4:00 PM, the marchers arrived at Tashijong Tibetan Village, where they were warmly welcomed by the local Tibetan community. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and renewed activism among Tibetans.

 

 

The day concluded with a generous dinner hosted by the Tashijong Tibetan community. Exhausted yet fulfilled, the marchers retired for the night with a strong sense of purpose and solidarity.

The Tibetan Youth Congress extends sincere thanks to Shri Shanta Kumar, Shri Parveen Kumar, Tashijong Tibetan community, Tashijong Tibetan Monastery, and the Youth Club of Tashijong for their kindness and support.

Black Hat March | Day 2: From Sarah to Gopalpur

Day 2 – The day began early at 5 AM with a prayer meets and a briefing by the organizing committee. Soon after, the march set off from Sarah Tibetan Studies College, making its way toward TCV Gopalpur via Dadh.
At Dadh, members of the Tibetan community of Chamunda, along with Himalayan Parivar National Secretary Mr. Rishi Kumar Ji and the owner of Hotel Dolphin, warmly welcomed the Tibetan Youth Congress Black Hat marchers, showing their strong support for the cause. By around 5 PM, we reached Tibetan Children’s Village School, Gopalpur, where students lined up to greet the marchers. The school administration kindly arranged high tea and accommodations for the night.
At 6 PM, the President and Vice President of the Tibetan Youth Congress held an engaging talk session with school staff, teachers, and students. They emphasized that students, the future of Tibet, should focus deeply on their education and recognize their responsibility toward the nation’s future.
The day concluded with a school dinner that brought back memories of our own school days, ending on a meaningful and reflective note.
Thank you TCV GOPALPUR , Chamunda Tibetan community, Rishi kumar ji himalayan parivar National Seretary and hotel Dolphin.

Black Hat March Begins: Standing Against China’s so-called Ethnic Unity Law

On March 31, 2026, the Tibetan Youth Congress officially launched the Black Hat March on a historically significant day—commemorating the moment when His Holiness The Great 14th Dalai Lama, cabinet members, and thousands of Tibetans, were forced into exile and stepped onto foreign soil as a refugee because of military and illegal occupation of Tibet by the so-called Chinese government.
The opening ceremony was held at Lhagyal-ri, beside the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The setting carried profound symbolism: on one side stood the residence of His Holiness, representing the living spirit and resilience of Tibet, while on the other side were displayed photographs of Tibetan martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Tibetan cause.
Black Hat March statement: TIB   ENG    HINDI
The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Mrs. Gyari Dolma, Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Security; Mr. Shashwat Kapoor, General Secretary of the BJP Yuva Morcha; Mr. Ajit Nehria, President of the Indo-Tibetan Association; Member of the Tibetan Parliament and former Tibetan Youth Congress President Mr. Tenzing Jigme; Member of Parliament Lhagyari Namgyal Dolkar; Kungoe Topgyal la; former Tibetan Youth Congress Executive Mr. Penpa Tsering la; and Tibetan Settlement Officer Mr. Kunchok Migmar.
The ceremony began with the singing of the Tibetan and Indian national anthems, followed by a solemn moment of silence to honour and remember the Tibetan martyrs.
  • Tibetan Youth Congress President, Mr. Tsering Chomphel, addressed the gathering and presented the objectives and key demands of the Black Hat March to the public.
  • Chief Guest Mrs. Gyari Dolma remarked, “It is deeply moving to witness this march at such an important and symbolic location. This is the time for all Tibetans to unite and channel our collective strength more than ever.” She also offered traditional white scarves (khatas) to all the marchers as a gesture of blessing and goodwill.
  • Mr. Shashwat Kapoor and Mr. Ajit Nehria offered heartfelt encouragement and meaningful recognition of our ongoing struggle for Tibet. They expressed their solidarity which not only uplifted our spirits but also reaffirmed the strength and resilience of our movement.

 

 

 

Following the ceremony, Mrs. Gyari Dolma, Mr. Shashwat Kapoor, Mr. Ajit Nehria, Mr. Tenzing Jigme, and Mr. Kunchok Migmar jointly flagged off the march from Lhagyal-ri, marking the commencement of the first day of the Black Hat March.
Upon reaching Gangchen Kyishong, the marchers were received by Honorable Penpa Tsering, Sikyong (President) of the Central Tibetan Administration. He met with the participants, extended his best wishes, and formally flagged off the march from the Gangchen Kyishong gate.
Later in the evening, the marchers arrived at the College of Higher Tibetan Studies (CHTS), Sarah, where they were warmly welcomed by Principal Mr. Passang la and RTYC Sarah.
At the end of the day, the Tibetan Youth Congress President delivered an engaging talk to the students of Sarah, highlighting the significance of the Black Hat March and encouraging greater youth participation in the Tibetan movement. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, fostering meaningful dialogue and reflection among the students.

Australia Tibet Council Delegation Meets Tibetan Civil Society

On 19 March, 2026, the Australia Tibet Council delegation visited the Tibetan Youth Congress for a meaningful engagement with Tibetan civil society representatives. The delegation included Ms Emma Davidson (Former Member of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly), Ms Sarah Redshaw (Councillor, Blue Mountains Local Council), Ms Brittney Henderson (Melbourne candidate for VIC State Parliament and an Australian Indigenous woman of Wiradjuri and Bunurong heritage), Ms Siobhan Isherwood (Councillor, Newcastle Local Council), Mr Michael Osborne (former Newcastle councillor and climate academic at Newcastle University), Ms Janet Rice (Co-Chair, ATC), and Dr Zoe Bedford (Executive Director, ATC).

The meeting was held in the presence of Mr Tsering Chomphel, President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, along with representatives from various Tibetan civil society organizations.

The discussion was both productive and engaging, focusing on the ongoing Tibetan movement and the vital role of civil society in advancing the Tibetan cause. The delegation shared valuable perspectives and insights, contributing to a meaningful and constructive exchange of ideas.

67th Tibetan National Uprising Day: Standing Against Oppression

On 10th March 1959, waves of desperate hope and terror swept through Lhasa as Tibetans bravely risked everything (lives, families, future) to shield His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and fight for the soul of their homeland. This uprising, forever branded with courage and sorrow, still fuels the unyielding spirit at the core of the Tibetan freedom movement.
Today, 10th March 2026, Tibetan hearts unite in peaceful protest marches across the world, each step and chant echoing with longing, outrage, and hope for the homeland they ache to see free. (Video link)
The air at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi pulsed with fierce determination, every heartbeat echoing resistance as the Tibetan Youth Congress led a fervent mass protest. Over 500 Tibetans and their steadfast allies gathered, their voices and very presence a living testament of unwavering solidarity for Tibet’s struggle.
The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the gathering, joined by several distinguished guest speakers, including Dr Manoj Kumar, National General Secretary of the Indo-Tibet Friendship Society; the former Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; former MCD member Rakesh Kumar Ji; Professor Vinay Kumar; and Jagtumba Singh from Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch. During the programme, organisers’ anguished voices revealed Tibetans’ suffering under Chinese rule, calling for the world to witness this plight. As Ladakhi singer Sonam’s patriotic song soared, emotion swept the crowd, forging tears into vows of commitment.
Meanwhile, at the Chinese Embassy, the Tibetan Youth Congress Central Executive, with RTYC Delhi and RTYC Rohini, held a demonstration. When 24 Tibetan activists were detained, fear and injustice surged through the crowd, showing the high stakes of resistance.

Strengthening Solidarity: Collaborative Efforts Between the Indian Uyghur Society and Tibetan Youth Congress

On 4th March 2026, the Indian Uyghur Society (IUS) President, Mr Wasim Abdullah, and General Secretary, Mr Talat Feroz, visited the Tibetan Youth Congress office and met with TYC President Mr Tsering Chomphel.
During the meeting, they discussed their experiences in activism movements against the Chinese Communist regime’s repression in both Tibet and Uyghur (East Turkestan). The discussion also focused on strengthening joint campaigns and activities among countries and organisations working to expose and oppose the policies of the Chinese Communist Party.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the President of the Indian Uyghur Society presented a souvenir and the Uyghur flag to the Tibetan Youth Congress as a gesture of solidarity between the Tibetan and Uyghur movements.

Tibetan Youth Congress Meets Taiwan Delegation: Strengthening Ties for the Tibetan Cause

On 27th February 2026, the Tibetan Youth Congress President, Tsering Chomphel, and Vice President, Tashi Targyal, along with other Tibetan civil society representatives, met with a Taiwan delegation in the Tibetan Youth Congress office conference room.
The Taiwan delegation included Ms. Wu Pei Yi, Member of the Legislative Yuan and President of the Taiwan Parliamentary Group for Tibet; Ms. Tsuni Cheng, Vice President of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy; Mr. Fa Hui Shen, Member of the Legislative Yuan; Mr. Chen Chang Lee, Taipei City Council; Ms. Miao Po Ya, Taipei City Council; and Mr. Lai Yu Shen, who served as the translator and  Ms. Mingyur Youdon, Secretary, Religious Foundation of H. H. The Dalai Lama, Taipei.
During the meeting, a discussion took place on the role and engagement of Tibetan civil societies in the Tibetan freedom struggle. The Taiwan delegation also shared their experiences and perspectives as supporters of the Tibetan cause.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Tibetan Youth Congress expressed its sincere gratitude to the Taiwan government and the people of Taiwan for their continued and strong support for the Tibetan cause.
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