Dharamshala: The Budget Session (11th Session) of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile for the fiscal year 2026–2027, scheduled from 16 to 30 March, commenced today at 9:30 a.m. with the session commencement announcement by Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel.

The session convened in the presence of Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, Penpa Tsering, Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration, along with Kalons (ministers) of the Kashag and members of Parliament. The proceedings began with the singing of the Tibetan national anthem, followed by the Speaker’s opening address and the appointment of Acting Speakers and members of the Ad Hoc Committee for the session.

In his opening remarks, the Speaker reflected on the vision and tireless efforts of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and the elder generation of Tibetans in exile. He acknowledged the continued support of the Government and people of India, as well as numerous countries and international supporters, which has enabled Tibetans to preserve and promote their unique language, culture, and religious traditions during more than six decades of exile while also strengthening international awareness of the Tibetan cause.

The Speaker further referred to recent legislative developments in the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China, noting the passage of policies promoting “ethnic unity” and the broader policy of Sinicization, which aim to tighten control over minority nationalities and religious practices. He expressed concern over the targeting of Tibetan language and identity under such policies, while urging Tibetans living in the free world to continue safeguarding and strengthening Tibetan linguistic and cultural traditions.

During the sitting, Parliamentarian Serta Tsultrim tabled a motion for an official obituary in honour of Ngari Rinpoche Tenzin Choegyal, the youngest brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who passed away on 17 February 2026.

Subsequently, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, who currently holds the Finance portfolio of the Central Tibetan Administration, presented the CTA’s proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026–2027, amounting to Rs. 3,407.42 million.

Following the presentation of the budget, Parliamentarian Choedak Gyatso, Chair of the Budget Estimate Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, presented the Committee’s précis report.

The motion to begin debate on the Central Tibetan Administration’s 2026–2027 budget was then tabled by Parliamentarian Karma Gelek and supported by Parliamentarian Juchen Kunchok Chodon.

The session was adjourned at 2:50 p.m. and will reconvene at 9:30 a.m. the following day.