contact march 2013

A Free Monthly PublicAtion For tibetAn issues & coMMunity inForMAtion

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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།Volume: XV Issue: 3

31 March 2013

National Uprising Day sees thousands in the streets for Tibet

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Continued on page 4

Recent Self-Immolations

Continued on page 20

March 26: Kunchok Tenzin, 28, set himself on fire in an apparent protest against China’s continuing occupation of Tibet. He was monk from Mogri Monastery in Luchu in Eastern Tibet and set himself ablaze at a road intersection near his monastery at 7pm. He died in his fiery protest. Local Tibetans took his body inside the monastery premises and cremated it on the same night to prevent the body from falling into Chinese hands.

Mar 25: Lhamo Kyab, 43, set himself ablaze at Lushoe village in Tsoe region, Eastern Tibet, in an apparent protest against China’s continuing occupation of Tibet. The self-immolation took place around 10pm at the forest where he worked. Following his self-immolation protest, armed security personnel arrived and the situation in the region is described as tense “under strict surveillance”.

Mar 24: Kal Kyi, 30, set herself ablaze near Jonang Monastery in Zamthang in Eastern Tibet at 3.30pm. She died from injuries. Kyi is survived by her husband, Gyepo, and their four children. Local Tibetans carried her charred body inside the monastery premises to prevent it from falling into the hands of Chinese security personnel.

Mar 16: Lobsang Thokmey, 28, a monk at the Kirti Monastry in the Ngaba region of Eastern Tibet set himself on fire to mark five years since 28 Tibetans were shot dead by Chinese security forces during a peaceful protest in 2008, triggering the continuing wave of self-immolations. Chinese security personnel took away his body. He is

by Olivia EngelON March 10, thousands around the globe crowded streets with Tibetan flags and bold signs to show solidarity for the Tibetan independence movement which has intensified this year in the wake of, at the time, 107 Tibetan self-immolations. Speakers at the National Uprising Day protests mourned and prayed for the martyrs, but reassured their communities of the struggle’s gained momentum. A wave of international support from the world’s governments surged for Tibet in the week following.

Since 1959’s bloody revolt in Lhasa against the Chinese occupation,

National Uprising Day – also recently dubbed “Martyrs’ Day” by the Tibetan Parliament in Exile – is a day for those united for Tibetan freedom or autonomy take to the streets, calling on their governments to hold the People’s Republic of China (PRC) accountable for human rights violations and environmental destruction in Tibet. Supporters wore black to mourn those harmed or lost in the decades-long

struggle. In McLeod, Tsug-la Khang, the main

temple and residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, was decorated with Tibetan flags, and there was a festive atmosphere with people carrying and wearing flags. The rally began with children from TCV in traditional dress leading the crowd singing the National Anthem as the Prime Minister of the Tibetan Governent in Exile, Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, unfurled the Tibetan flag, followed by a minute’s silence for Tibet’s martyrs.

After the Prayer for Compassion, Sangay addressed the crowd’s spirit of resistance: “The yearning for

freedom that moved our elders... is a beacon that guides our present-day struggle to secure our basic freedom, dignity, and identity,” he said. “The character of our people is being shaped by our endurance of the darkest period of Tibetan history.” He concluded that his administration will continue to call for international support for Tibetan human rights,

and that the Middle Way approach is in the “best interests of both China and Tibet”.

Afterwards, protesters carrying flags and chanting slogans marched down to Lower Dharamsala where they gathered for a rally of music, songs, and speakers from the Indian government and leaders from Tibetan NGOs. Students for a Free Tibet addressed the crowd with an activist’s messages of hope and

Sikyong Lobsang Sangay at Tsug-la Khang, the main temple in Dharamsala on March 10.

(Photo: Lha)

Free

ContaCt magazIne 2 MARCH 2013

ContaCt Magazine is a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust. It contains Tibetan issues, international news and local information that aspires to bring the West and East together in a meaningful and beneficial way. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamsala area and (in the future) in Delhi, Rishikesh, Manali, Goa, and various diplomatic missions to India.Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail!

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Mission Statement: Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others. Background: Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training,

health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.org

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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

about lha & contact

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news & issues

Tibetan women raise their voices by Miranda HallOn March 12, the Tibetan Women's Association (TWA) commemorated the

54th anniversary of the National Tibetan Women's Uprising. On this day in 1959, thousands of Tibetan women in Lhasa peacefully protested against the Chinese occupation of Tibet. The authorities responded with

force, resulting in deaths, torture and many arrests.

The commemoration honoured not only those who lost their lives in this brutal crackdown but all past Tibetan female martyrs, including the 14 female self-immolators.

Hundreds of Tibetan women, as well as foreign supporters, took part in the function held at the Martyrs' Pillar in

Dharamsala. Addressing the crowd, TWA president Kirti Dolker Lhamo condemned China's “brutal policies of bloodshed and provocation in Tibet” and urged the UN to do intensive research on the actual causes of self-immolation.

A new scholarship for female Tibetan students to study either gynaecology or pediatrics was announced, and four books were released. Protestors then marched down to lower Dharamsala, chanting and raising banners.

TWA organised a three day campaign in Delhi: “Tibetans stand together in Joy and Sorrow”. On the first day, media attention was drawn to the campaign when a group of 13 Tibetan female students from Delhi University stormed the Chinese Embassy. Wearing t-shirts with pictures of self-immolators, they locked themselves together and shouted for China to “get out of Tibet”.

As part of their effort to “empower

Tibetan women to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts in society”, this month TWA also organised a seven day leadership training course for nuns. “There is scope for nuns to be politicians and to be literary masters” said Geshe Tharchin of the CTA. “It is

important to participate in street protests but education is the best weapon we can use in the long run.”

A protestor at the Martyrs’ Pillar(Photo: Lha)

National Uprising Day sees thousands in the streets for Tibetstage protests on Martyrs’ Day but a solidarity rally in New Delhi drew over 2000 Tibetan supporters. The rally began with an inter-faith prayer and a minute’s silence for fallen Tibetan protestors. Prominent Indian leaders from numerous parties spoke at the rally, and Dr NK Trikha, National Convener of Core Group for Tibetan Cause, expressed concern on behalf on the Indian nation and reaffirmed that the Indian people had always, and would continue to, stand by Tibet.

This year saw strong international support, with protests in over 30 countries. Over 5,000 protestors massed in Brussels, Belgium; 3,000 in New York City, USA; 1,200 in Taipei, Taiwan; and many thousands more across the globe.

The Central Tibetan Administration sent Kalons to other exile Tibetan communities, to inform them of the CTA’s policies and efforts on behalf of the violence and oppression in Tibet. Delegations spoke in France, Australia, Belgium, Japan, India (Ladakh), the USA, and Taiwan.

movement: “There is a new revolution we are seeing inside Tibet,” Tenzin Jigdal said. “Tibetans inside Tibet are in search of Tibetan identity and their aspiration has never been stronger.”

Though SFT is staunchly pro-independence, Jigdal explained to the crowd that ideology is not as important as the current, urgent situation that Tibetans face within Tibet today and that the top priority must be to relieve their suffering.

The march in Dharamsala was organised by the five main NGO’s of the Tibetan exile community: Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for a Free Tibet, Tibetan Women’s Association, Gu Chu-Sum, and National Democratic Party of Tibet.

As the presenters broadcast speeches, one man named Dawa, in his 30’s, attempted to self-immolate but was prevented and rushed to Delek Hospital. He remains in stable condition.

In PRC-controlled Tibet, however, freedom of speech was not an option. Radio Free Asia wrote that Tibetan

sources reported a massive security sweep in Lhasa, starting three days before Uprising Day and aimed at cell phones and computers. Following the destruction of satellites in Eastern Tibet last month, the PRC aims to further cut Tibetans off from exchanging news with the exiled community, particularly on Martyrs’ Day.

Police presence was tripled in efforts to dissuade any March 10 protests and five Tibetans were arrested in Sichuan for involvement in a demonstration. One monk from the Kirti Monastary in Tsepak was arrested the previous evening for unknown reasons.

In India, not only did many cities

Continued from page 1

European Solidarity Rally in Brussels(Photo: belgium4tibet)

Delhi University student at the protest(Photo: Phayul)


news & issues

Statements from around the Worldby James Connell and James Petersen

UK: Baroness Warsi Senior Minister of State, Department for Communities and Local Government and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office

“[…] I have real concern about the tragic cases of self-immolation. Tr a g i c a l l y, those who die do so at

great loss to their communities and families, but those who survive end up suffering for many years […]. It is a matter that we continue to raise […]. We are concerned about the lack of meaningful dialogue to address the underlying grievances against a clearly worsening situation”.

US: Patrick Ventrell, State Department spokesman“We remain concerned by the deteriorating human rights situation in

Tibetan areas, including the n u m e r o u s tragic self-immolations tha t have occurred and related reports of detentions

and arrests […]. We continue to call on the Chinese government to permit Tibetans to express grievances freely, publicly, peacefully, and without fear of retribution. And we urge Tibetans to end self-immolations.”

US: Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader“It is long past time for the Chinese government to address the legitimate gr ievances of the Tibetan people and cease its

words. [Given the urgency of the increased desperation of Tibetans in Tibet today], we sincerely encourage President Xi Jinping to meet with the leaders of the Tibetan government in exile to discuss the Dalai Lama’s Middle Way [policy] for peace, human rights and stability, and for a reasonable co-existence between the Tibetan and Chinese peoples.”

US: Senator Robert Menendez, the Democratic Senator and Chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee “Like so many others, I wish that Tibetans w o u l d n o t choose self-immolations, a horrific act, as a method of protest. [...] At the same time, we must understand that these sorts of acts are indicative of the deep sense of frustration felt by the Tibetan people. This is not a conspiracy of “foreign forces” but indicative of the deep sense of hopelessness of a people denied their basic dignity.”

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, Central Tibetan Administration“The blame and solution lies squarely with Beijing. Occupation and repression are the cause and reform is the solution. If the blame game continues a n d u n l e s s i n d e p e n d e n t f a c t - f i n d i n g delegations and the international media are not allowed to visit Tibet to assess the real situation in Tibet, the international community, including the Chinese people, will view the Chinese government with deep scepticism. At the same time, we once again invite the Chinese authorities to Dharamsala to prove their allegations of our alleged role in self-immolations.”

religious repression. […] The cause of Tibet continues to be a challenge to the conscience of the world. We must heed the guidance of HH the Dalai Lama, and we must not forget the people of Tibet and their ongoing struggle.”

UN: EU Delegate at the Human Rights Council During the UN Human Rights Council’s 22nd Session in Geneva, the EU delegate noted the EU’s “profound sadness” at “the numerous self-immolations in Tibetan-inhabited areas”. China was encouraged to “re-engage in constructive dialogue with the Tibetan people and to allow free access to the Tibetan autonomous area”.

India: Mr Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MP“India has a moral responsibility as the world’s largest democracy to be a flag bearer of hope to any people all over the wor ld , i n c l u d i n g Tibetans, who are faced with lack of hope. The issue of Indo-Tibetan friendship and Tibet is something that has not been refreshed in recent times [...]. I think it would be fitting for His Holiness the Dalai Lama [...] to address the Parliament and share his views on world and conflicts in specific”.

UK: Mr David Sweet, Conservative Member of Parliament“NewPresident Xi Jinping spoke of the earnest expectations of the people for better life [...]. I would like to note that the world is watching how president Xi Jinping’s government lives by those


Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture, Dharamsala—the home of

news & issues

China’s long arm of oppression: Nepal turns its back on Tibetan exiles

by Miranda HallTHE past few weeks have seen serious crackdowns on the basic freedoms of Tibetans in Nepal. These seem to indicate a worrying trend of Kathmandu distancing itself from the exile community in order to appease its powerful neighbour. In a classic case of cheque-book diplomacy, Beijing has upped its investment in Nepal in exchange for Nepalese commitment to the “One China Policy” (which decrees that Tibet and Taiwan are “inalienable parts of China’) and intolerance of “anti-Chinese activity”.

Nepal has been a crucial transit route for Tibetans fleeing their homeland ever since over 20,000 migrated to Nepal following the 1959 Tibet Uprising. Refugees were issued ID cards and benefitted from unofficial economic integration. An informal agreement was then made between the Nepalese government and the UN high commissioner for refugees in which Kathmandu pledged to facilitate

Tibetans travelling through Nepal en route to India.

In the past two decades, however, this hospitality has waned, arguably under pressure from Beijing. Kathmandu no longer issues refugee ID cards, leaving Tibetans in Nepal with no legal identity or able to own property, be lawfully employed or receive travel documentation. According to reports from The New Yorker and Time magazine, Nepalese police have even been apprehending Tibetans inside Nepal and returning them to China at gunpoint. In 2012, WikiLeaks revealed that China “rewards [Nepalese forces] by providing financial incentives to officers who hand over Tibetans attempting to exit China”.

A number of high-profile cases this month have involved the Nepalese government tightening its grip on Tibetan refugees. Eleven were arrested in Nepal in the aftermath of the National Tibetan Uprising Day on March 10. In the week running up to the event, a home ministry spokesman announced that the government was making “necessary security arrangements in areas deemed sensitive to foil any untoward incidents and a letter was issued to Tibetan activists asking them not to publicly observe the March 10 anniversary because “activities against China violate Nepal’s law”.

Media attention has also focused on the Nepalese authority’s refusal to return the body of Drupchen Tsering, who self-immolated in Kathmandu,

to the Tibetan community so that they can carry out the final rites of Buddhist custom. Despite repeated appeals from Tibetans and their supporters to release the body, the Nepalese authorities secretly cremated his body on March 25. They maintained that his body would be released only to his family (who are in Tibet and therefore unable to claim the body) or diplomatic representatives (most likely meaning Chinese diplomats). This decision came despite an international campaign by students for a Free Tibet urging Nepal to “respect the basic rights of Tibetan refugees and not kowtow to China’s growing influence”.

While distancing itself from the Tibetan exile community, the Nepalese government has been cosying up to Beijing in a series of meetings this month with the new Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Wu Chuntai. By the end of 2013, annual trade between the two countries is expected to hit $1.5 billion, a 25% increase since last year with Chinese-funded projects such as a $1.6bn hydropower plant nearing completion.

For the estimated 20,000 Tibetan refugees living in Nepal and the hundreds wishing to escape Tibet each year, China’s ability to buy seemingly limitless influence in Kathmandu is deeply worrying.

Nepal President Ram Bavan Yaday reiterated Nepal’s endorsement of the One China Policy

and said that Nepal hopes to benefit from “China’s tremendous economic

achievement.” (Photo: Wikipedia)

Drupchen Tsering, (Photo: Phayul)

By Jenny JamesHEATED debates arose during a Human Rights in China meeting organised in Geneva by the UN. The meeting was attended by Chinese diplomats as well as representatives of the occupied territories of East Turkestan, Inner Mongolia and Tibet who gave examples of oppression, persecution and human rights violations under Chinese occupation. The meeting was marked by the diplomatically discourteous actions

of the Chinese representatives.A Chinese diplomat stated that no

states named East Turkestan, Inner Mongolia and Tibet existed in China, and that they were historically Chinese territory. World Uyghur Congress President Rebiya Kadeer responded: “We came here to discuss the issue of human rights, not land… History is to be written by historians. You are diplomats, not historians. The Chinese Communist Party cannot write the history of my country.”

Uyghur Congress President Rebiya Kadeer.(Photo: World Bulletin)

Uyghur leader gives Chinese diplomats a history lesson

Continued on page 7


Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture, Dharamsala—the home of His Holiness th6

news & issues

by Sune PetersenAS March passes, there is no sign of any lessening of the civil unrest within Chinese-occupied Tibet as this month has seen a number of arrests. March is considered a sensitive period by the Chinese government, due to both National Uprising Day on March 10, and March 14, which marks the fifth anniversary of the 2008 Lhasa uprisings. Existing Chinese security policies have been hardened with new strategies implemented leading to an increase in arrests and long sentences for Tibetans for even minor violations.

According to Chinese state news agency Xinhua, the police reported that after arrests in late February, the “…suspects were on the spot to take photos and send them abroad”. The five arrested have been blamed for “recruiting and encouraging” the self-immolation protests.

As National Uprising Day approached, a number of arrests were reported within both Tibet and China. On March 8, a demonstration conducted by three monks of the Yaso monastery in the Bathang region of Eastern Tibet was brought to an end when Chinese security personnel arrived on the scene. Although the demonstration was peaceful, authorities attempted to arrest the protestors. As one of the monks was taken away, the remaining two managed to escape and are currently on the run, their whereabouts is at time of writing unknown. The same day, a Tibetan sought by the police for more than a year was arrested in Sichuan. The Tibetan, wanted for his involvement in a protest last year, was arrested while visiting family members in the region.

During a raid the following night, a

Tibetan monk from the Kirti monastery in the Ngaba County was arrested by the Chinese police. According to witnesses, the monk was taken away while nursing a relative at a nearby village. The relatives still don’t know the reasons behind his arrest and current whereabouts. On National Uprising Day itself, Chinese authorities arrested three monks who staged a demonstration in the Sichuan province. The monks, belonging to Mangey monastery, demanded freedom and democracy in Tibet. Moreover, two lay Tibetans that tried to intervene in the arrests were also taken away.

Chinese authorities however, have not only been cracking down on political gatherings. On March 13, Phayul reported that popular Tibetan singer Lo Lo had been sentenced to six years in prison for raising separatist sentiments in his politically charged songs. Lo Lo has been arrested before but was released again after a short detention.

Another month of injustice in TibetAs a means to restrict the flow of

information and stopping the spread of “separatism”, Chinese authorities have conducted a major crackdown on mobile phones in Tibet in March. According to Dharamsala-based rights group Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), a team of “experts on cellphone technology” arrived in the Tibetan capital on March 7. The following day, they initiated security sweeps of mobile phones in all of Lhasa’s major monasteries, where they are searching for sensitive, politically charged material in the form of images and writings. TCHRD said that the special search team are staying four to five days in each monastery as “local authorities have vowed to undertake severe measures including detention and imprisonment against attempts to share information about Tibet”. The rights group added that the view from Beijing is that “…one is a criminal if one tries to share information about human rights abuses in one’s country or community”. The Chinese crackdown on mobile phones follows the increased restrictions on news, media, and communications in Tibet, aimed at ensuring what Party Secretary Chen Quanguo of the Tibetan Autonomous Region last year called ‘absolute security of Tibet’s ideological and cultural realm”.

As this month comes to an end, the Chinese hardline-policy is strikingly clear as tighter policing of monasteries, controls on visits to Lhasa, surveillance on all forms of communication and arbitrary arrests of Tibetans voicing their resentment or even being related to self-immolators are all part of daily life in the Chinese-occupied country of Tibet.

Lo Lo(Photo: Phayul)

During the debates, Chinese diplomats caused a scandal by furiously throwing down the microphones placed on their table by media representatives.

In addressing the issue of other ethnic minorities, Kadeer said, “You

kill the Tibetan people because they want you to implement the autonomy you have provided them!… You are accusing us Uyghurs and the Mongols living in Inner Mongolia of separatism since we demand our natural and human rights!”

Kadeer continued, “Occupied land never belongs to the occupier. You invaded our territory in 1949.”

The heated debate and verbal exchanges were a first in United Nations history.

Uyghur leader gives Chinese diplomats a history lessonContinued from page 6


Tsering Woeser wins 2013 Woman of Courage Award by Olivia EngelON March 8, the US Department of State presented its annual Woman of Courage Award to Tibetan writer, poet, and activist Tsering Woeser, who, under house arrest in Beijing, was not permitted to leave China to receive her award. She dedicated the award to the 100+ self-immolators in Tibet.

Secretary of State John Kerry presented the award to Woeser and nine other women and spoke of his admiration and respect for Woeser’s bravery in the face of Chinese oppression and threats. In addition, she has been documenting each self-immolator on her blog with pictures and information as a resource for the rest of the world.

Woeser has married a Chinese Tibetology scholar and continues to release forbidden information to the neticizens of the world. Woeser has fearlessly stood against threats of violence and imprisonment from

Chinese forces, once stating,“You have guns, I have a pen.”

Woeser refuses to back down for the sake of the self-immolators. “[They] are the reason why I will not give up, and why I will not compromise.”

In her interview with Radio Free Asia, she specified that the award should go to the self-immolators, saying that she was “honoured” by the award and that she thinks “it is an expression of concern for Tibet”.

Woeser writes in Mandarin,and English translations of her work can

be found on High Peaks Pure Earth’s website. She is the author of the book Notes on Tibet and the blogs Maroon Map and The Woeser Blog. She received the Prince Claus Award in 2011 but was refused a passport then as well.

Chinese spokespeople have vehemently chided the United States for awarding Woeser, who they claim is a separatist and is “twisting facts about Tibet,” thereby “sabotaging Chinese national security.”

“For America to award a prize to such a person is no different from publicly supporting her words intended to separate China,” said spokeswoman Hua Chunying. This form of “interference” in Chinese internal affairs was discouraged by China as the US Department of State announced its decision.

For the time being, Woeser has a police guard inside her home, and is escorted by police at all times.

Tsering Woeser(Photo: Tibet.net)

news & issues

New Session of the Tibetan Parliament in Exileby Dave WoodON March 18, the Tibetan Parliament in exile began its annual budget session in Dharamsala. Held under the shadow of increasing tensions and the ongoing self-immolations within Tibet, the parliament opened with Speaker PenpaTsering criticising the Chinese government in its approach to Tibetan grievances and echoing the calls of the wider Tibetan leadership to resolve the crisis with opened dialogue with new Chinese leader, Xi Jinping. The Parliament of the Central Tibetan Administration is a democratically elected group, set to represent all areas of Tibet as well as the interests of Tibetans in exile. This includes not only geographic representation, but also religious figures from all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon faith.

The parliamentary system aims to “instill the seeds of self-reliance, combining democratic functioning with Tibetan values” through a system of representation and frequent tours of Tibetan exile settlements. This led to the announcement on March 10, 2011 that HH the Dalai Lama would stand down from all political responsibilities in favour of political autonomy and the devolution of “formal authority to the elected leader”.

The roles of the Parliament today are as varied as any Parliamentary system globally, and operate to represent the interests of the Tibetan population in exile. The March session addressing budget allocation is an important demonstration of this. Whilst this remains the primary focus of the Parliamentary body, Speaker PenpaTsering stressed further

international outreach is necessary, in order to highlight Tibetan issues on a global platform and promote the Tibetan cause to a wide audience.

The budget session was concluded on Mar 28. The total budget of Rs1,280,329,262 is allocated between the five divisions of Parliament: 1. Administration and its related offices for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker and the Judiciary: Supreme Justice Commission: Rs 1,661,0832. Legislature, including the MPs office, Tibetan courts and local Tibetan government administration: Rs 40, 675, 313

3. Political Activities and other related offices including new political activities, and inlcuding Secretariat, security department, international relations and the Representative Offices which looks after Tibetan activities worldwide: Rs 403,580,8624.Administration and other related offices including the election commission, public commission, auditor general and finance department: Rs 155,451,2055. Social Activities relating to the Tibetan people in exile including the Public Affairs Office, Religion and Cultural Affairs Department, health, eduction, the reception centres, and the Home Department which looks after the exile settlements, and the Sambhata Schools Society: Rs 601,208,999.

Funding for the above activities will be allocated from the total budget as follows: regular expenditure fund Rs 456,694,609, special fund Rs180,956,349, direct expenses fund Rs 642,678,304.

There is a further account to fund the administration for Tibetans in Southern India, and the exile communities overseas: Rs 39,775,612

There is a budget increase over the previous year (2012-13) to allow for increased spending on education and the home affairs departments.


news & issues

Kirti Rinpoche tours Europe by Tenzin YountenTHIS month, the Kyabje Kirti Rinpoche began a tour of six European nations to highlight 60 years of China’s oppressive

policies aimed at destroying the Tibetan religion, culture, environment, and language and to promote discussion about the Tibetans’ protests and self-imolations.

The 11th Kyabje Kirti Rinpoche, Lobsang Tenzin Jigme Yeshi Gyamtso Pal Sangpom, was born in 1942 and pursued his basic religious studies and training at Kirti monastery in Amdo. Following the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, Rinpoche followed His Holiness the Dalai Lama in exile to India.

After 27 years of strict examination and debate at the three great monasteries of Sera in Southern India, Kirti Rinpoche was honored with the highest degree of Geshe in 1986. He was Minister in the department of Culture and Religion at CTA for some years.

On tour, he talked about the unfounded accusation by the Chinese that the local Kirti Monastery collaborates with exiled Tibetans to organise protests. Chinese security forces have kept the monastery and the town under virtual lockdown since 2008 when 28 Tibetans were killed on a single day by Chinese security forces during a peaceful protest in Ngaba. Tibetans in Ngaba have suffered for three generations under the communist Chinese, starting with Mao’s long march in the area in 1936-1937.

Kirti Rinpoche said that Tibetans in Tibet are looking to the exile community for support. He called on the European Parliament’s (EP) Human Rights sub-committee to help, and requested an

EP resolution demanding the release of jailed Tibetan activists, full access to foreign media in Tibet, and the withdrawal of Chinese forces from Tibet territory.

The co-presidents of the French Parliament’s Assemblee Nationale for

Tibet have since reiterated their firm support for the Tibetan people and their fundamental human rights, and said that the group would be urging the French President to raise the issue of Tibet during his upcoming visit to China.

Kirti Rinpoche at a prayer service in Rikon Monastery, Switzerland – organised by Swiss

Chol-Kha-Sum Associations(Phto: tibet.net)

Kirti Rinpoche in Europe (Photo: Flickr)

by Conor MeadeXI Jinping has been confirmed as the new President of China, succeeding Hu Jintao, and completing the highly orchestrated once-in-a-decade shift in leadership. The National People’s Congress, the party-controlled state legislature, rubber-stamped the election

of the sole candidate by 2,952 votes to one in what was a purely ceremonial process at B e i j i n g ’ s Great Hall. In a similarly ritual ballot,

Li Keqiang succeeded Wen Jiabao as premier, China’s number-two position.

The National People’s Congress, technically a meeting of China’s

parliament, brings together almost 3,000 members to vote on legislation. However, legislation is always passed. The leadership is instead decided over the course of many years of behind-the-scenes manoeuvring and bargaining within the party.

There has been hope in the Tibetan exile community that a new Chinese leadership might signal a change in policy towards Tibet. Students For A Free Tibet has launched a campaign called “Xi Jinping’s Tibet Challenge”, calling on the newly appointed president to address the crisis in Tibet and bring in an end to the widespread human rights abuses committed by Chinese officials.

However, Mr Xi’s initial public speeches have implied continuity of the One China policy (which decrees that Tibet and Taiwan are “inalienable parts of China). In his inaugural address as president, Mr Xi affirmed the “Chinese

Dream”: “The Chinese spirit brings us together and builds our country

together,” said Mr Xi. “To create the Chinese Dream, we must unite all Chinese power.”

Although Mr Xi’s position as leader is confirmed, he still faces a battle to consolidate his power against party elders who retain strong influence. Any significant shift in policy will be slow.

For now at least, the Chinese Dream will prolong the Tibetan nightmare.

New Chinese Leadership reasserts the “Chinese Dream”

Li Keqiang(Photo: Wikimedia)

Xi Jinping (Photo: yahoo news)


Tibetan Headlinesnews & issues

with pictures of independent Tibet, self-immolations and China’s repression in Tibet.

Mar 27: Chinese Hack MobilesAN attack has been launched against Tibetan and Uyghur activists on their Android-based mobile devices. The attack targeted a high-profile Tibetan activist, infecting smart phones with malicious viruses, and sent “spear-phishing” emails attaching an .APK file containing a malicious program. Certain characteristics of the attack suggest that it was designed by Chinese-speaking authors.

Mar 26: BRICS SummitTHE Tibetan Women’s Association and Students for a Free Tibet India have issued a press statement demanding action for Tibet, for the attention of Xi Jinping, the Chinese president, who is attending his first BRICS summit in Durban. BRICS, comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has become a serious force to be reckoned with both in economic and political terms.

March 22: Security TightensCHINA has recently announced a new security system in Tibet, the “grid”, which will expand an already heavy security presence, significantly increasing surveillance and monitoring, particularly of “special groups” – among others, former prisoners and those who have returned from the exile community in India.

Mar 19: Chinese Tibetan TalksMORE than a dozen Chinese scholars and students met with Tibetans in New York at a gathering organised by the Office of Tibet for an open exchange

of ideas on the current crisis inside Tibet. Chinese part icipants said that the meeting was “ e x t r e m e l y

Mar 31: Landslide disasterTWO Tibtans are among the 83 workers buried in a major landslide which hit a mining area in Medro Gungkar near Lhasa. The miners worked for a subsidiary of the China National Gold Group Corp, a state-owned enterprise. It is China’s largest gold producer.

Mar 29: Jampel Yeshi’s StatueTHE Tibetan Youth Congress have unveiled a statue at of Jampel Yeshi, who self-immolated in Delhi a year ago. “As a Tibetan, he thought that his

country was taken away f r o m h i m and he has no other way to resist except to sacrifice h i s l i f e , ” said former p o l i t i c a l p r i s o n e r Palden Gyatso. Yeshi’s statue

is installed at Lhagyal Ri in Dharamsala, next to Thupten Ngodup’s, who was the first Tibetan to self-immolate in exile.

Mar 28: Middle Way PolicyCHETHNU Karma Choephel withdrew his support for the Middle Way Policy during the fifth session of the 15th Tibetan Parliament in Exile. Chethu has a long standing connection with the Tibetan Youth Congress and their Free Tibet policy. Speaker Penpa Tsering explained, “An individual member-of-parliament’s personal statement in the house cannot affect whatsoever the unanimously adopted Middle Way Policy of the Central Tibetan Administration”.

Mar 27: Chinese silencedTHE Chinese Consulate at Chicago abandoned the opening ceremony of their exhibit Tibet Today: Sight of Western China Photo Exhibition at the University of Minnesota when local Tibetan organisations opened a parallel exhibit Tibet Today: Exposing the Truth

helpful in gaining a better understanding of the Tibetan issue”.

March 17: UK MPs TIBETANS and supporters in the UK took part in the fifth annual Tibet Lobby this week at the Houses of Parliament, and in local constituencies around the UK. The focus was to “call on MPs to ask David Cameron to make a public statement of concern on Tibet and to urge the UK government to work with other governments to find a solution to the Tibet crisis.”

March 16: Indian SsupportA “Tibet Advocacy Campaign” held in New Delhi from March 13 to 15 lobbied senior Indian leaders and received support from across party lines. The three-day campaign aimed to “gather Government support and diplomatic intervention to redress the grim situation inside Tibet”, and was jointly organised by the Tibetan Women’s Association and Students for a Free Tibet, India, and co-ordinated by the International Tibet Network.

March 8: CTA respond to China XINHUA News Agency has accused the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the Dalai Lama of encouraging self-immolations in Tibet through blog postings by a former member of the Tibetan Parliament in exile now living in France. The CTA responded: “Such writings are irresponsible and unnecessarily give excuses to the Chinese government to resort to the blame game and shirk its responsibility for the root causes leading to self-immolations.”

Lobbyists taking part in Tibet Lobby, in Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament,

London March 13 2013.(Photo: Paul Golding)

The Tibet Today “Expos-ing the Truth” exhibition

(Photo: SFT)

Yeshi’s statue(Photo: Phayul)


International Headlinesnews & issues

store spent fuel from the reactors. The plant went into meltdown in the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, and tens of thousands of evacuees remain unable to return home.

Mar 16: Pakistan makes HistoryRAJA Pervez Ashraf, Pakistan’s PM, has hailed as “a victory” for democracy the completion of a full term by an elected government for the first time in the country’s history. “No-one will be able to harm democracy in future” Mr Ashraf said.

Mar 15: China warns PopeWHILE congratulating the new Pope, China has warned that the Vatican “must stop interfering in China’s internal affairs, including in the name of religion”.

Mar 12: Falklands ReferendumTHE people of the Falkland Islands have voted over-whelmingly in favour of remaining a UK overseas t e r r i t o r y . Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner had said the inhabitants’ wishes were not relevant in what is a territorial issue.

Mar 11: Rapist DeadA SUSPECT in the abduction, rape and murder of a student in Delhi has been found dead in prison. Police say Ram Singh hanged himself in Tihar jail, although defence lawyers have questioned this. He was one of five men being held in the case. They all deny the charges.

Mar 8: Peace Pact scrappedNORTH Korea says it is scrapping all non-aggression pacts with South Korea, closing its hotline with Seoul and shutting their shared border point. This follows UN sanctions punishing Pyongyang for its nuclear test last month.

Mar 31: Filming cyberattack-FILMMAKERS Christian Johnston and Darren Mann, who posed as carpet salesmen and traveled to Tibet with the aim of documenting the human rights abuses there, have been the victims of a cyberattack. A laptop was hacked, its operating system wiped out and a related web site in Los Angeles deluged with so much traffic that it crashed. There is circumstantial evidence linking the attack to China.

Mar 28: NY Smoking BanNEW York City is marking 10 years since its ban on smoking in indoor

public places. Mayor Michael Bloomberg said that “fewer New Yorkers are smoking” and “we are living

longer”, and officials estimated the ban has prevented 10,000 premature deaths.

Mar 26: Constitution suspendedTHE leader of rebels who have seized the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), Michel Djotodia, says he is suspending the constitution and dissolving parliament, and that he would uphold a peace deal that promises elections in three years. CAR has been unstable since its independence from France in 1960 and is one of the least-developed countries in the world.

Mar 21: Cyber attackUNIDENTIFIED hackers used a Chinese IP address to contact servers of South Korean banks and plant malware which attacked their computers, South Korean officials say. Hackers can route their attacks through addresses in other countries, but the discovery has strengthened speculation that North Korea was behind the attack.

Mar 19: Nuclear power failureA POWER failure at Japan’s tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant has affected cooling systems for the ponds which

Earlier, Pyongyang said it reserved the right to a pre-emptive nuclear strike against its “aggressors”.

Mar 7: Citizens’ rightsFORMER Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev has denounced new laws passed in Russia as an “attack on citizens’ rights”. He has called on President Vladimir Putin “not to be afraid of his own people”. The laws include fines for organising unsanctioned protests, stiffer libel penalties, a wider definition of treason and restrictions on websites.

Mar 4: Voting in KenyaKENYANS are voting in an election tescribed as the most important in the country’s history. It is the first time a vote has taken place under a new constitution, designed to prevent a repeat of violence that followed the 2007 polls when more than 1,000 people died in ethnic and political violence following claims the poll had been rigged.

Mar 3: Pakistan BombA suspected suicide bomber attacked Shi’ite Muslims as they were leaving a mosque in Pakistan’s commercial capital on Sunday, killing at least 45 people. Sunni groups, most prominently the al Qaeda-linked Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, have escalated attacks against Shi’ites, who they believe are non-Muslims.

Mar 1: Bradley ManningTHE US soldier accused of leaking large numbers of secret documents to Wikileaks has pleaded guilty to 10 of the 22 charges against him. He denied the most serious charge against him, aiding the enemy, but could face up to 20 years in prison. Manning told a court he divulged the documents to spark public debate about US actions and insists he is a whistleblower, not a traitor.

Bradley Manning(Photo: Yahoo)

(Photo: cityroom blogs)

Parade in Stanley (Photo:yahoo)


Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamsala as the govern-ment 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.netLOCATION: Dharamsala – 176215PHONE: 01892-222218HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pmEMAIL: [email protected]

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organizes his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamsala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.comLOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221879EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organization with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organizes cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organization publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219PHONE: 01892-221554 / 221010EMAIL:[email protected], [email protected]

Tibetan Women’s Association The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 / 221198EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamsala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamsala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-220356 / 221348EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang)Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-Tsee-Khang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.orgLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222EMAIL: [email protected]

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.orgLOCATION: Gangchen KyishongDharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892-222467 / 226181HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm. Closed 2nd and 4th Sat. every monthEMAIL: [email protected]

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamsala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital)LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamsala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyEMAIL: [email protected]

Sambhota Tibetan Schools SocietyThe society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organization.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Dharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: [email protected]

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organization that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organization attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organizations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org

LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219PHONE: 01892-220589

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Narthang Building Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: [email protected]

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2)WEB:www.lhasocialwork.orgLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-220992EMAIL: [email protected]

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet(Ex Political Prisoners Association)Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organization that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: [email protected]

Tong-Len Charitable TrustTong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in

North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Some volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamsala-176215PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibet CharityTibet 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.inLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:[email protected], [email protected]

Charities and Organisationsaround town


Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism

and culture, Dharamsala—the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama—always evoked some special, unique and spiritual feeling in me. Having spent the past eight years with various studies and readings about Tibet, I was very eager to meet Tibetan people and to become useful to their

community.

Given my experience with development issues and my current stud-ies, I decided in January 2012 that I would come to McLeod Ganj and make my long-term dream a reality. Among all organizations that I con-tacted, Lha provided me with the handiest and most practical informa-tion. Soon after our first emails, I felt attached and could not wait to arrive here. Watching videos, reading articles, and imagining myself walking the streets of McLeod Ganj made me feel already involved with the Tibetan community.

After spending some days in Delhi, I finally arrived to McLeod after an exciting journey on the twisting roads up to the Himalayas. The welcoming of Lha, their guidance and the introduction to the Tibetan society was a stunning experience for me. I knew on my first day that I was going to have a wonderful time. The four weeks I spent here were filled with an interesting mixture of official research, unofficial talks, impressions and feelings, all of which helped me to get to know Tibet-ans better by finding out more about the realities they face.

I spent my days visiting the offices of Tibetan NGOs engaged in po-litical, social and human rights issues. I received the most welcoming approach and I am very grateful to all people who were always here for my never-ending questions. Thanks to you, I got on a new path to know you better, not merely from books and teachings, but by getting some real-life experience. Through my engagement, I aim to offer a long-term assistance to Lha and to do my best in the West to raise further

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative provides HIV/AIDS education, prevention and care services in Tibetan settlements throughout India. The services provided by CHOICE range from in-dividual counseling to organizational training. CHOICE has a sponsorship program and oc-casionally utilizes volunteers. WEB: www.choicehivaids.orgLOCATION: Arora House, 2nd Floor, Temple Road, DharamsalaPHONE: 01892-220239, 941-831-6896EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a non-profit, 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.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala 176215PHONE: 0189 222 6627EMAIL: [email protected]

Rogpa Baby Care CenterThe Rogpa Baby Care Center helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by provid-

ing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The center needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks includ-ing diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka Guest House, Jogiwara Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 (near no.13 on map)PHONE: 981-665-9549HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm- 5 :00 pmEMAIL: [email protected]

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

Clean Upper Dharamsala Project Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Fac-

tory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are of-fered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: [email protected]

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on non-violent strategies to help resolve dis-agreements and differences at all levls of human society. ANEC welcomes

volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of re-gional and global peace and nonviolent strate-gies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers.WEB: www.anec.org.inLOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional

Charities and Organisationschapters 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.orgLOCATION: Dharamsala–176219EMAIL: [email protected]

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children work hard at making delightful handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE: 01892-246366, 981-685-1841EMAIL: [email protected]

around town

Gap Year Colonialism?Name: Miranda Hall Job at Lha: Teacher and Contributing Writer

A lot of things have been said recently about volunteering abroad and not many of them are nice.

A google search of “voluntourism” brings up multiple articles asserting that volunteer programmes perpetuate negative stereotypes of Western “colonialism”: a new way for the West to assert its power. Voluntourists are depicted as self-congratulatory, disingenuous hedonists looking to boost their ego, or misplaced idealists inadvertently doing more harm than good.

But can all volunteer work today really be compared with the “white man’s burden” of the past?

It is important for people to be critically conscious when choosing who to volunteer with. UK-based specialist Gap Year organisations charge volunteers up to £4,500 for a two-month experience, and are arguably built to maximise profits without investing in the local community.

Having worked at Lha for almost two months now I would argue that none of these charges can be levelled against Lha. Firstly and fundamentally, Lha is not run by a foreign NGO but by Tibetans. The Lha staff: both Ngawangs, Rabsel, Tenzin, Yangzom, Palden and Tapsang are part of that

local community so they know what it needs.

I will miss sitting in the Library while too-cool Tenzin makes fun of me and talks about his escapades, and I will miss being greeted at Common Ground by Rabsel’s infectious chuckle and Ginger, the fattest dog in Dharamshala. And most of all I will miss my students and the Tibetan people who I would call my good friends.

But am I still a self-congratulatory, disingenuous hedonist looking to boost my ego? I’d like to think not, but I do feel looking back on my time in Mcleod that I learnt more from it than any of my students, and not just because I had to re-teach myself all the rules of the unfathomable English grammar system.

All the Tibetans I’ve met have a story to tell, for the most part involving repression by the Chinese authorities, months-long journeys over the Himalayas and leaving behind their entire families. But they tell their stories so willingly and as soon as they finish they are laughing and joking again. I have never met a group of people who laugh so much. It’s a cliché but it makes me question what we spend all our time worrying and complaining about back home.


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 (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840)

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

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala

FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamsala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus

stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10.

IMPORTANT CONTACTSAmbulance: 01892-102, 222189

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-23107

Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

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

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.phone: 222 053,223 381

Post OfficeThe McLeod Ganj Post Office is located on Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Phone: 221 924Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only.

Library of Tibetan Works & ArchivesWEB: www.ltwa.net/libraryLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamsalaHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH KarmapaWEB: www.kagyuoffice.orgLOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pmPHONE: 981-631-5336

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Mar 10: Tibet Uprising Day 8am Gathering and ceremony at Main Temple, McLeod Ganj 10.30am Protest March to Lower Dharamshala. Commemorating 54 years since the Chinese invasion of Tibet, this has been a major annual event since the big uprising in 2008. (times are approximate) Jun 1-4: HH The Dalai Lama teachings at the Main Temple in Dharamsala, on Shantideva’s A Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life (chodjug) at the request of a group of Indians.

UPCOMING EVENTSNaam Art GalleryLOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari DharamsalaPHONE: 9816043708

Tibet MuseumLOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod GanjHOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese RestaurantHOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

Kangra Art MuseumLOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 01892 224214HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 1892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Form Gallery LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis CafePHONE: 8894-060602HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

ART & MUSEUMSOm Yoga, Meditation & Reiki CentreWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: [email protected]

Tushita Meditation CenterWEB: www.tushita.infoLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 01982-21866EMAIL: [email protected]

Vipassana MeditationWEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.orgLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pmPHONE: 01982-21309EMAIL: [email protected]

Rishi Yoga & Meditation CenterWEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.phpLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling NunneryPHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502EMAIL: [email protected]

MEDITATION

activities and tourist info


activities & services

Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed MondayPHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106EMAIL: [email protected]

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and PanchkarmaWEB: www.kumarayurveda.comLOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite thethe Club HouseHOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs dailyPHONE: 8894492837EMAIL: [email protected]

Maanav Health ClinicLOCATION: Main SquareHOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 941-815-5795EMAIL: [email protected]

heAlth serVices

lAnGuAGes

Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & TreatmentLOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdPHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga CenterWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd.HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PMPHONE: 980-569-3514EMAIL: [email protected]

Nature Cure Health ClubShiatsu massageLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara RdPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdPHONE: 01892-20992

Synergy Ayuredic Massage CenterLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara RdPHONE: 941 80 8488EMAIL: [email protected]

Traditional Thai MassageLOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Infor-mation Centre, Hotel Surya RdPHONE: 981-633-9199EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Language Class LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992See ad on pg 3.

Hindi ClassesLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean RestaurantPHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with SunilLOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in DharamkotPHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan LanguageLOCATION: The Tibetan LibrarySee Buddhist Philosophy Listing

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

Tibetan with Pema YoudonLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post officeHOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion SpokenLOCATION: Esukhia Office,Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Road, DharamsalaWeb: www.esukhia.orgPhone: 8679502538E- mail- [email protected] Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 980-569-3514

Rishi Yoga & Meditation CenterWEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.phpLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling NunneryPHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502EMAIL: [email protected]

MAssAGe

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-22618 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]

Primary Health CentreLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main marketHOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pmPHONE: : 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamsalaPHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

Ayuskam Health CareWEB: www.ayuskama.comLOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod GanjPHONE: 980-592-8923, 973-621-1210

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00amPHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking ClassesLOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka GuesthouseHOURS: 10:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

cooKinG

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green ShopHOURS: 8:00am-9:00pmPHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking ClassLOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara RdHOURS: 4:00-6:00pmEMAIL: [email protected]

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Ti-betan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara RdHOURS:10:00am-12:00pm & 4:00-6:00pmPHONE: 981-616-4540EMAIL: [email protected]

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

yoGA & reiKi


Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture, Dharamsala—the home of

news and advertisements

Empower YourselfAyurvedic consultations for acute and chronic diseases with ayurvedic therapies, herbs and panchakarma, with world re-nowned doctors working in collabration with naturopaths in Europe and America. Treatments starting from one hour to three weeks, depending on your problems.

visit : www.ashoayurvedahealing.comemail: [email protected]

call: 9418069406 weekdays 5- 7pm

Shivani Clinic and Panchakarma CentreBhagsunag - map # 22

Sikyong visits Canadaby Lha Intermediate English Class StudentsSIKYONG Dr Lobsang Sangay, the Indian-born, Harvard-educated political head of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile paid a visit to Canada on February 25. He met with cabinet members and other notables, urging them to encourage the Chinese to find a permanent and just solution to the unavoidable problem of Tibet.

He also had meetings with MPs from the parliamentary friends of Tibet group and Canada’s minister of immigration and citizenship. He claimed that the rising number of self-immolations stems from the repression of political and religious freedoms and crackdowns on other forms of protest. He also spoke of the economic disenfranchisement of Tibetans by the Chinese on their own land and the related environmental issues.

Other highlights of his visit included his meeting with the Canadian official

opposition leader, and addressing the Subcommittee of International Human Rights of the Canadian Parliament. The Subcommittee members declared themselves impressed with the scope and clarity of the information provided.

Sikyong called upon the newly instated Ambassador for Religious Freedom, Andrew Bennett, to visit Tibet and personally acquaint himself with the situation. However, the Canadian ambassador to China was recently

turned down from travelling to Tibet. That permission to enter Tibet is subject to Chinese government approval could similarly prevent Bennett.

The visit received significant attention from Canada’s most prestigious print and media outlets which Sangay used to discuss the painful issue of the tide of self-immolations sweeping Tibet. He appeared on CTV News, Power and Politics and Cpac. Canada’s most important newspaper, The Globe, also featured an in-depth interview with him on its front page, ensuring nationwide coverage of the visit.

Hopefully, this visit will have improved the Canadian people’s understanding of the current situation in Tibet and they will then encourage their authorities to hold discussions with the Chinese Government. Sikyong wishes for freedom and for the Dalai Lama to be able to return to Tibet. These are not only his wishes but those of all Tibetans.

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and Mr Jason Kenney, Canada’s Minister of Citizenship,

Immigration and Multiculturalism(Photo: tibet.net)

New developments at Contact Magazine!AT Contact, we are always looking for new writers and we are delighted that our students are now contributing to the magazine. This month our Intermediate English class has written the news article above and it was a real team collaboration: the teacher made the initial suggestion following a class exercise in reading and analysing

newspaper articles; the editor briefed the class in what was needed; the students wrote the story and a volunteer writer did the editing.

Did you know that Contact is also online? And online you can see our exciting new Dharamsala Stories where you will find stories about people who live here, some of these are written

by our students too. Check it out at contactmagazine.net, or follow us on facebook at Contact News.

All our writers are volunteers and we encourage new writers to contribute. If you live locally, or are staying for some time, please email [email protected] if you would like to be involved.


SEVEN HILLS OF DOKEBI

KOREAN RESTAURANT

Pure Korean Food AvailableFor both Veg & Non Veg

We serve special Kimbab (Sushi)For every day veg, tuna, avocado,

And many other naturally Korean foodsKimchi, Bulgogi, Very Clean & Delicious!!!

Also good MusicClassics, Jazz, Pop, Korean &

we have nice fireplace

Open 10:00am ~ Closed 10:00pmLocated on Jogiwara Road-Map #12

Mobile: 98055 83234Near the Japanese Restaurant

GOING TO AMRITSAR?Come see us at Tourist Guest House

British colonial mansion turned into beautiful guest house that tourists have been flocking to for a taste of the Raj life style.

We have Internet connection at Rs 1/min.

Comfortable stay with home cooked meals. Dorm bed Rs 125, Single/dble w. bath Rs 175-350.

Walking distance from train and bus. Private parking.Recommended in travel guide ‘Lets Go-2000’.

Contact Harindar at : 0183-2553830 / 09356003219E-mail : [email protected]

NorbulingkaWhere nature flourishes and tranquility prevails

Preserving Tibetan CultureLIVE ART

FINE SHOPPING

ART GALLERY

DOLL MUSEUM

SERENE GARDEN CAFE

INNOVATIVE CRAFT AND DESIGNGuided Tour, Round Trip Sharing Ride

Minimum Four People RequiredRs. 200 per person from McLeod Ganj

Tickets Available at Chonor Guest HouseContact: Chonor Reception #01892-221 468/01892-221006

Trisong Dorjee #9816523556Website: www.norbulingka.org

Dr. Mobile ShopYour Communication Partner

Mobile Sales, Mobile Repair, Sim Cards, Purchase and Recharge Phone Service

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, Map # 9 McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101

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OM YOGA CENTER

TEACHER TRAINING STARTING

28 April - 28 May - 28 JuneHATHA, ASHTANGA, AND

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CERTIFIED BY YOGA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL AND INDIAN GOVERNMENT

DAILY YOGA CLASS8-9:30 AM AND 4-5:30 PMDAILY MEDITATION CLASS7-8 AM AND 5:30-6:30PM

REIKI I, II, III WITH TREATMENTOM YOGA MEDITATION CENTERKETAN LODGE, JOGIWARA ROAD - Map #24,

TEL: 9805693514 EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: WWW.OMYOGAINDIA.COM


Dream Holidays Travels and ToursGround Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square / Bus Stand, McLeod Ganj - Map #18

(3rd office inside Mall)“let us be your dream holiday”

+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements - Lowest Fares Guaranteed+Discounted domestic air tickets

+AC & Non-AC cars & jeeps for short & long tours, airport & train station transfers+Rail tickets and hotel reservations + Short and long trekking tours

phone: 0091 1892-221 469 / 220 790, mobile: 981 608 7878 / 941 809 7149email: [email protected], web: www.dreamholidayindia.com

Jimmy’s Italian KitchenMain market, just opposite of prayer wheels on the

second floor. Jogiwara Road, McLeod - Map #6Contact: 9816124833

Come for fine Italian food, amazing views from the roof top terrace garden, live music, stylish decor & yummy desserts!

CARPE DIEMRESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

“Your Health is our Happiness”MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE,

CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOODHealthy hygiene, No MSG•Everything washed with sterilized water•Homemade muesli & homemade curd•Large variety of fresh juices•Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven•Relaxed atmosphere including roof top tables •& Japanese-style seating areaLive music every Sunday•

Located on Jogiwara Road,across from the Tibetan Reception Center

(down from Post Office) - Map #8

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese food and peaceful environment, just one minute from the Bus Stand, just behind Asian Plaza! (Map #3)

Common Grounds Cafe is a nonprofit venture of Common Grounds Project, an NGO with a mission to establish and promote innovative forums to achieve common grounds of shared understanding between Chinese and Tibetan people. We also host weekly programs including screenings, discussions, & workshops.

TIBET KITCHENRESTAURANT & BEANS CAFE

BEST AUTHENTIC TIBETAN CUISINE IN TOWNSPECIALIZING IN THAI, BHUTANESE, & CHINESE

WE ALSO SERVE FRESH BEAN COFFEEHealthy Hygienic - Only A.C. Restaurant in town

Homemade Noodles - Internet surfing

Party Bookings AvailableOpen 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. Located at the Main SquareContact: 01892-221980, Mobile: 98058 75626 - Map #5

Are you reading this byChance?

Or was it destined…

Discover the Secrets of Being, Doing and Having everything.Unravel the Mystery of your life, And Find the Purpose & Happiness.

Take a walk to….

KUNDALINIEsoteric Boutique

On hotel Surya Road, Mcleodganj - Map # 21

Result guaranteed life-style ideas & discussions at 6:00PM every eveningTuesday through Friday.

Reiki Meditation Healing, Crystals, Pashmina CarpetsEvery product a labor of love

HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE“The most suitable place for foreigners, holidaymakers, honeymooners,

trekkers, and those who wish to commune with nature!”

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

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

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Glorious ArtsBELIEVE IN THE BEST

Precious & Semi-Precious Stones Gold & Silver Jewellery

Pashmina Shawls ♦ Thangkas ♦ Carpets, etc. Also Made to Order

**Bring in this ad and receive 11% off any one item!** (expires 31 July 2012)

Shop No. 11, Mount View Complex, Temple Road, McLeod Ganj (inside Hotel M, opposite reception desk - Map #2)

Mobile: +91-9816559319 / 9960802594 Also visit us in Goa, near the CSM Hotel, Baga

Deals in:


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McLEOD GANJ

DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Tushita CentreTibetanChildren’sVillage (TCV)

Naddi Village

CanttPolicePost

Road to Dharamshala

Main Bazaar

TIPA

BHAGSU NAG

LhaMAIN

SQUA

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For Details See Advertisement Pages

12. Seven Hills of Dokibe Siddhartha Yoga Centre13. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel 14. Namgyal Cafe15. Hotel Nataraj16. Pema Thang Guest House17. Chonor House18. Dream Holidays Travel19. Crepe Pancake Hut20. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen21. Kundalini22. Shivani Clinic23. Thomas Cook24. Om Yoga Centre

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10 11

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Thank you for patronising our advertisers!

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Road to Dharamshala

8 AUSPICIOUSHIM VIEW HOTEL

Located below Ghu Chum Movement at Jogiwara Road (Map #13). We have 8 beautiful, well-decorated rooms with good-luck symbols in each.

All rooms have a balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed!

Our restaurant serves Vegetarian Tibetan and Continental dishes. We also have a coffee and juice bar featuring homemade cakes.

Phone: 01892 220567 Cell: 9418236603Email: [email protected]

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1. Lha Headquarters Jigme Computers2. Glorious Arts3. Common Ground Cafe4. Kunga Guest House & Nick’s Italian Kitchen5. Tibetan Kitchen6. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen 7. Nature Cure Health Club8. Carpe Diem Restaurant9. Dr. Mobile Woeser Cafe10.Learn Hindi with Surinder Kumar11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture

Nature Cure Health Clubwith Mahinder Kapoor

Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 7Mobile: 94181 30119 or 09736333888

Email: [email protected]

12 years’ experience & recommended by the Lonely Planet

Visit us for: Swedish massage courses & treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment, reflexology treatment, SPA, Singing Bowl Treatment, steambaths, sauna & mud baths.

Our teacher has had experience teaching in Israel.

Cake, Coffee and Chai and Much Much More!7.30am to 7pm

Below Black Magic on Jogiwara Road - Map # 9Mobile: 9857055048

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JIGME COMPUTERS Laptop Repair and Spares

We deal in sales and service of all computers and laptops.Laptop accessories available, we also sell used laptops in best condition and buy

back your used and damaged laptop.

Contact us for best service: Phone: 9882231309Temple road, underneath Lha - map # 1

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Siddhartha Yoga CentreYoga Teacher TrainingShivam is a certified yoga instructor who has been

teaching different methods of yoga for 24 years He has taught in Europe, USA and India and is fluent

in English, French and Spanish.

Call Shivam 09816565138 Siddhartha Yoga Centre, Upper Bagsu Nag, Nr high sky Map #12

www.siddharthayogacentre.org/ [email protected]

Ring for opening hours

Also open 6 - 7pm for meditation

Intensive Yoga practiceEnergy Yoga

Posture, healing, anatomy, breathing, diet

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Chonor HouseChonor House (map #17) is centrally located overlooking His Holiness the

Dalai Lama’s temple. We have eleven uniquely decorated and well-appointed rooms with room service and housekeeping.

Internet is available in our Cyber Yak.Our chefs create a wide range of Tibetan and International specialties which can

be enjoyed in our beautiful restaurant, our peaceful gardens, or on your own private balcony. Visit our bakery for freshly-made cakes and cookies to enjoy

here or to take away.For that special gift to take home, visit our shops,

Chonor Designs and Norling Designs (on Temple Road)and choose from our exclusive range of jewellery, clothing, and handicraft items.

Phone: 221815Talented artisans from Norbulingka Institute create all of our designs.

Phone: +91(0)1 892 221 006/221 077 Fax: +91 (0) 1892 221648Email: [email protected] - or - [email protected]

Website: www.norbulingka.org/site/visitor.htm

and RestaurantPema Thang Guest House

Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously cleanMinutes from Main Temple and Market, tucked on a

quiet street with magnificent view of the Kangra Valley.Rooms feature kitchenette. New addition: Yoga Hall

Traditional Tibetan Musical Eveningwith Buffet Dinner on request

Adjoining Restaurant offers delicious local and continental fare described by Wikitravel as

“lip-smackingly yummy.”Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #16Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net

Crepe Pancake Hut

Visit our Café for organic flour-made pancakes with fresh fruit sauce, a variety

of fillings & Green and Grain salads

Come to enjoy our homemade Pineapple beer & Ginger beer

Jogiwara Road, opposite Mountview Guesthouse (Map #19)

Mobile: 9418607037

KUNGAGUEST HOUSE

Spacious rooms with views over the valley, and...

NICK’S ITALIANRESTAURANT

Home baked cakes, quiches, pies, pastas, cheese, & Italian

favourites served on our massive terrace.

We also have on sale theRigpa Tibetan CalendarBhagsu Road - Map #4

Phone: 221 180

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Namgyal Cafe

The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map #14

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

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

Continued from page 1

Mobile: 9736536552, 9816150562

survived by his parents Rogtrug and Depo, a sister and three brothers. March 13: Kunchok Wangmo, in her 30s, set herself on fire in the Dzoege region of Ngaba on the eve of Xi Jinping’s formal selection as the new President of China. Chinese authorities took possession of her body and carried out the cremation, later handing over the remains.

Her husband, Dolma Kyab, whose present condition and whereabouts are unknown, has been arrested after refusing to comply with orders to declare internal family feuds feuds as the reason for her self-immolation.

April 6, 2012: Tulku Athup alias Thupten Nyendak Rinpoche, 47, and his niece, Atse, 25, self-immolated at the former’s residence in Dzogchen monastery in Kham in Eastern Tibet.

Tulku Athup spoke to his family on the phone before they set themselves on fire. It has now been confirmed that it was a self-immolation and not an accidental fire with butter lamps. Fearing closure of the monastery, officials at the time told the Chinese police that the fire was accidental. The police withdrew from the monastery but have since imposed severe restrictions across the region and cracked down on local Tibetans, leaving many of them severely injured.

Recent Self-Immolations

contact march 2013

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