Dharamshala: The inaugural event of the 52nd meeting of the Board of Directors of the Central Dokham Chushi Gangdrug was held in Delhi on 12th March 2025, with Parliamentarian Tenzin Jigdal of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile serving as the Chief Guest.
MP Tenzin Jigdal, representing the Standing Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, officially launched the book ‘Four Rivers, Six Ranges,’ a historical account of Andruk Gonpo Tashi – Commander of Chushi Gangdrug.
The event was attended by other parliamentarians of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, and executive members, and members of Dokham Chushi Gangdrug.
As the day coincided with Tibetan Women’s Uprising Day, MP Jigdal, addressing the meeting, paid homage to the patriotic Tibetans (Males and Females). He expressed deep respect and appreciation for the unwavering courage of Tibetans living in Tibet.
He emphasized the significance of Chushi Gangdruk, an organization founded out of necessity and with great purpose. He particularly highlighted its historical role as a military force that resisted the Chinese Communist government during Tibet’s occupation.
Speaking on the importance of historical awareness for a nation’s development and prosperity, the MP stressed that Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk’s defiance of the Chinese government, marked by the sacrifices of countless individuals for Tibet and its people, remains a crucial chapter in the Tibetan struggle. He underscored the need for this history to be acknowledged and widely educated among the public.
Highlighting the importance of national identity and patriotism in a nation’s struggle to endure, the MP emphasized the need to cultivate these values and instil a deep awareness of the nation’s history in children, both at home and in schools.
“Given that the history of the Chushi Gangdrug is closely tied to the Tibetan people’s struggle and represents a crucial chapter in our national identity and patriotism, it is essential to incorporate it into school curricula. Moreover, it is equally important to continue presenting this history through illustrated books and exhibitions. The stronger the preservation of Tibetan ethnic identity, the more resilient the Tibetan nation’s struggle will be.”
MP Jigdal also praised various initiatives of Dokham Chushi Gangdrug, including the Andrug Gonpo Tashi Award, which recognizes Tibetan students in exile who excel in Tibetan language examinations after completing the twelfth grade. He also commended the organization’s efforts in awarding scholarships to many Tibetan students, contributing to the preservation of the Tibetan language and culture and the revitalization of what has been lost.
Furthermore, he acknowledged their social service work, particularly their dedication to caring for the elderly by providing stipends, healthcare, and essential facilities for the older generation. On behalf of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, he expressed appreciation for these efforts.
Finally, he prayed for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and extended his best wishes for the success of 52nd meeting of the Board of Directors.