Dharamshala: As part of the program of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Parliamentarians Khenpo Kada Ngedup Sonam and Lhamo Tsering Kongtsa began their official visit to Rabgayling Tibetan Settlement in Hunsur.

The two parliamentarians departed Dharamshala on 22 August and arrived at Samyeling Tibetan Colony in Delhi the following day. On the afternoon of 23 August, the delegation held a preparatory meeting to discuss the objectives of the visitation, the agenda for public engagements, and key issues to be addressed during their visit.

As part of the program, MP Khenpo Kada Ngedup Sonam was designated to speak on the prevailing situation inside Tibet and the official resolutions adopted during the first session of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. MP Lhamo Tsering Kongtsa was assigned to speak on the noble contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the international political status of the Tibetan issue.

On 24 August, the delegation departed to Bengaluru. Upon arrival, they were received by Tsering Dolkar, Administrator of the local Elder Home. The parliamentarians subsequently travelled to Hunsur. They were warmly received by administrators of local monasteries, former MP Tsering Youdon, local dignitaries, camp leaders, and village heads.

On the morning of 25 August, the parliamentarians visited Gurupura Sambhota Tibetan School, where they received a traditional drum welcome from teachers and students. The students presented demonstrations of Buddhist logic, poetry recitations, and a theatrical performance portraying the oppression and suffering endured by Tibetans under the Chinese Communist government.

Addressing the students, MP Khenpo Kada Ngedup Sonam highlighted the crucial role of education in preserving Tibetan identity and advancing the Tibetan cause. He emphasized the responsibilities of schools, teachers, and students, encouraging them to pursue their studies diligently while remaining committed to serving the Tibetan people and cause. He also drew attention to the testament of patriot Rangtsen Lobga as a source of inspiration for the younger generation.

MP Lhamo Tsering Kongtsa advised the students to cultivate effective study habits and stressed the importance of maintaining good physical and mental health alongside academic development. The parliamentarians then visited classrooms while lessons were in progress and reviewed the school’s facilities and educational environment

In the afternoon, the MPs accompanied by the Chair of the Local Tibetan Assembly, the Office Secretary, two Camp Leaders, and Accountant, visited and paid their respects at Gyudmed Monastery, Dzongkar Choede Monastery, and Urgyen Ling Monastery.

The parliamentarians also conducted official visits and inspections of key institutions and offices within the settlement, including the Local Tibetan Assembly, the Tibetan Settlement Office, Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement (BRDL), Local Cooperative Society and its branches, Health Clinic, Men-Tse-Khang, Milk Cooperative, Camp Leaders’ Office, Sports Committee, and Veterans Association.

During the visits, the administrators of the monasteries and heads of various institutions accorded a warm reception to the parliamentarians and briefed them on the functioning, activities, and concerns of their respective institutions. The parliamentarians offered guidance and advice on relevant matters and reaffirmed the importance of collective efforts in strengthening the Tibetan community and its institutions.

The parliamentarians will be continuing their visitation program in Hunsur to engage with members of the Tibetan community and assess matters of importance to the settlement.