Dharamshala, 28 August 2026: The 25th Annual Tibetan Cooperative Conference commenced on 27 August 2026 at Sikyong Hall, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Gangchen Kyishong, with the participation of representatives from 15 Tibetan cooperative societies across India.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Palden Dhondup, Kalon of the Department of Home, CTA; Special Guests Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo and Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang; and other distinguished dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker, Justice Commissioner, Election Commissioner, Public Service Commissioner, Members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Federation of Tibetan Cooperatives in India Ltd. (FTCI) President Pema Delek, FTCI CEO Norbu Tsering, Secretaries of various CTA departments, and other officials and representatives.

As part of the inaugural program, FTCI President Pema Delek read out a message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Addresses were delivered by Department of Home Kalon Palden Dhondup and Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang. Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo formally launched the new website of the Federation of Tibetan Cooperatives in India (FTCI). The program also featured a welcome address by FTCI CEO Norbu Tsering, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by FTCI Vice-President Naljor Jorden.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang reiterated the message of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of fostering solidarity through shared vision, aligned thinking, and strong unity.

Reflecting on the history and evolution of the Tibetan cooperative movement in India, the Speaker highlighted the establishment of cooperative societies during one of the most challenging periods in the history of Tibetan refugees. She described the cooperative movement as a remarkable testament to the resilience, self-reliance, and collective spirit of the Tibetan community.

The Speaker further acknowledged that, under the blessings and guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the FTCI has played a significant role in rebuilding and strengthening the socio-economic foundations of Tibetan communities across India. She underscored the importance of sustaining and further strengthening the cooperative movement through collective responsibility, mutual support, transparency, and a shared commitment to the long-term socio-economic wellbeing of Tibetan communities.

She also emphasized the need for the FTCI and its member cooperative societies to uphold the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and good governance, while ensuring strict compliance with applicable legal requirements, financial and accounting regulations, and administrative responsibilities.

Further acknowledging the strong representation of women within the FTCI, which stands at approximately 49 percent, the Speaker commended their meaningful participation and encouraged Tibetan women to take on greater responsibilities in community affairs and assume more active leadership roles.