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His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates Shri Narendra Modi and NDA on Winning the Lok Sabha Elections

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates H.E. Shri Narendra Modi and NDA on Winning the Lok Sabha Elections

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his and the National Democratic Alliance’s emerging as the winner in the Lok Sabha elections.

“It fills me with admiration and pride to see India upholding its responsibility as the world’s largest democracy. These elections have indicated how much the people of India value their democracy. India is one of the great ancient civilizations, a distinctive and fundamental feature of which has been ahimsa and karuna and is increasingly being regarded as a leader in the community of nations.

“On this occasion too, I would like to take the opportunity to express the Tibetan people’s immense gratitude to the government and people of India for its warm hospitality. It is due to India’s consistent generosity and kindness to us that we have been able to preserve our ancient cultural heritage in exile, in peace and freedom. We have also been quite successful in creating a greater awareness and interest in ancient Indian wisdom among new generations of our Indian brothers and sisters.

“As you prepare to resume office for a new term, I wish you continued success in meeting whatever challenges may lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of this great nation.”

His Holiness concluded his letter by offering his prayers and good wishes.

Lakes in Tibet to expand 50% by 2100 due to climate change: Study

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The Yamdrok Youtso lake in Tibet (Photo/GTCN)

By Tsering Dhundup

 The surface area of numerous lakes on the Tibetan Plateau could increase by more than 50% by the end of the century due to global warming, while lakes around the world shrink, according to a new study titled “Widespread societal and ecological impacts from projected Tibetan Plateau lake expansion”.

The research team from China, Wales, Saudi Arabia, the United States and France said that this would correspond to a fourfold increase in water storage compared to what the area experienced over the last 50 years. The water volume of these lakes in Tibet is estimated to expand by over 600 billion tonnes due to increased rainfall from climate warming and glacier melt.

The researchers noted the potential negative economic impact on Tibet, running into billions. “It is one of the regions that is most vulnerable to climate change, acting as an early warning signal for the wider effects of global warming,” the researchers wrote.

While large lakes in other regions of the world have been losing water storage due to rising temperatures and human activity, lakes in the Tibetan plateau have been expanding in recent decades due to warmer and wetter conditions. This expansion is mainly driven by increases in net precipitation, with melting glaciers contributing but having limited storage.

The study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Geoscience last month involved a simulation model for 2021 to 2100, incorporating climate drivers with field surveys and remote sensing, under different socioeconomic scenarios to examine future impacts. The northern part of the plateau is expected to see a twofold increase in total lake area, the largest increase across the region. Lakes in the southeast, northwest, and central parts will also expand significantly. Even the southern part, which had a shrinking trend, began expanding in 2021.

The study revealed that the Siling Lake (Tibetan: Siling Tso), the largest lake in the so-called Tibet Autonomous Region (traditional Tibetan province of U-Tsang), could see a water volume increase of around 66 billion tonnes, with about an 800 sq. km increase in area. Despite the northern parts experiencing the largest increase in water storage, roads in the northeast, with more human activity and infrastructure, will be most vulnerable to floods. Under the socioeconomic scenario, inundated roads could lead to economic losses of 20 billion to 50 billion yuan (US$2.7 billion to US$6.9 billion) by the century’s end. This “is a serious threat that should be considered in future rail and road planning,” the team said.

The study further predicted that by the end of the century, 615 human settlements and over 500,000 livestock could be disturbed due to water inundation, severely affecting local pastoralist’s livelihoods and exacerbating poverty levels. The researchers cited an incident in 2011 where a lake burst in the Hoh Xil Nature Reserve in the traditional Tibetan province of Amdo which is now known as Qinghai Province, blocking the migration route for Tibetan antelopes.

“Loss of cropland could disrupt food production, affecting both local food security and the regional agricultural economy,” the paper said. Several lakes are expected to merge as they expand, threatening infrastructure and ecology. The team also expressed concern about increased greenhouse gas emissions from the expanding lakes, creating a feedback loop of further warming and lake expansion.

“The expanding lakes pose challenges to existing and planned infrastructure and communities and require urgent implementation of effective adaptation and sustainable management strategies to mitigate socioeconomic repercussions,” the team said. “Our study serves as a scientific guide for future planning and provides valuable insights to avoid the devastating consequences of the impending lake expansion.”

Dhondup Wangmo, research fellow at the Environment and Development Desk of the Tibet Policy Institute, shared her insights on the issue, stating, “Although scientific studies have suggested multiple factors to account for lake expansion, a consensus on the primary driver remains elusive. Scientific research has identified three common factors: the melting of glaciers, degradation of permafrost, and alterations in precipitation patterns. Whatever the factors are, this expansion vividly demonstrates how climate change manifests in Tibet. The increasing size of these lakes will jeopardize the water system, impact local pastoralists, and heighten the risk of water-related disasters such as glacier lake outbursts.”

Dalai Lama to visit the United States for knee treatment

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama (Photo/Vanity Fair)

By Tsering Dhundup

The Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, is set to travel to the United States later this month for medical treatment on his knees, his office said Monday.

A statement on his official website  and social media handle read, “This is to inform all concerned that no engagements, including public audiences, will be scheduled from June 20 onwards until further notice. The Dalai Lama is scheduled to travel to the United States for medical treatment on his knees.”

This trip marks the Dalai Lama’s first visit to the United States since June 2017. During his last visit, apart from fulfilling public engagements, he attended a routine annual medical check-up at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, New York.

The news of his medical visit also brings to light the complex geopolitical posturing associated with the Dalai Lama. In September 2020, then-presidential candidate Joe Biden pledged to meet the Dalai Lama, emphasizing a commitment to human rights and values he argued were neglected by his predecessor, Donald Trump. To act on his promise, he said, he would do something Donald Trump haven’t done. “I’ll meet with His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” Biden said. However, more than three years into his presidency, Biden has yet to fulfil this promise.

Engaging with the Dalai Lama has historically been a sensitive issue for American presidents, given the strong opposition from Beijing. The Chinese government views Tibet as an integral part of China and perceives any recognition of the Dalai Lama as an affront to Chinese sovereignty. The Dalai Lama is not only a religious leader but also a symbol of Tibetan autonomy and resilience, making any diplomatic interactions with him particularly contentious.

The United States has been an active supporter of Tibet, providing funding to the Tibetan Government in Exile and passing laws to aid the Tibetan cause. Last month, the United States Senate and, in February, the US House of Representatives passed the bipartisan ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act.’

The Resolve Tibet Act addresses Tibet’s political status and holds China accountable for infringing upon the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination. It challenges China’s narrative that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times. The bill also states that Tibet includes not only the ‘Tibet Autonomous Region’ (TAR) but also Tibetan-inhabited areas of Gansu, Sichuan, Qinghai, and Yunnan. Additionally, and in direct relation to octogenarian Tibetan leader, the legislation criticizes China for refusing to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, and urged the resumption of dialogue to resolve the Tibetan conflict.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates Chief Ministers of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates Chief Ministers of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, and Prem Singh Tamang, Chief Minister of Sikkim, to congratulate them both on their parties’ success in the state assembly elections.

He observed that over the years, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim have made tremendous strides in development and prosperity. His Holiness expressed the hope that both Chief Ministers will continue to strive to improve the lives of those who are less privileged.

He wished both Pema Khandu and Prem Singh Tamang success in meeting whatever challenges may lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of their respective states.

-Sourced by dalailama.com

MP Shashi Tharoor Visits Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile

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Dr. Shashi Tharoor poses for a group photo with members of the Standing Committee and Public Accounts Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 30th May 2024.

By  —  BT NEWSDESK

Dharamshala: Dr. Shashi Tharoor, MP Lok Sabha from Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), former Union Minister of State for External Affairs, and former Under Secretary General of the UN paid a visit to the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 30 May 2024. The delegation led by Dr. Tharoor had a meeting with Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang and members of the Standing Committee and Public Accounts Committee, after a guided tour of the parliament hall.

The delegation had received an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama earlier today. As per the preferred invitation to visit the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, parliamentarian Youdon Aukatsang of the TPiE accompanied them during their visit.

Upon arrival at the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, the MP and his colleagues were welcomed by the Deputy Speaker, members of the Standing Committee and Public Accounts Committee, and the Secretary-led staff of the parliamentary secretariat. Dr. Tharoor received a guided tour of the parliament hall, followed by a meeting at the Standing Committee’s hall.

In her welcoming address, the Deputy Speaker expressed gratitude to the delegation for Dr. Tharoor’s enduring support for the Tibetan cause, particularly for meeting with delegations from the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile during their advocacy visits to Delhi.

The Deputy Speaker urged for Dr. Tharoor’s continued support with the same vigour, citing his valuable presence at the 8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet in Washington DC in 2022, and encouraged his participation in the upcoming 9th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet.

Briefing the delegation on the Tibetan parliament’s advocacy program in various Indian states, the Deputy Speaker highlighted the significance of Tibet in the context of the environment, national stability, and water resources.

Dr. Shashi Tharoor highlighted the enduring support Tibet and its people have received from both the Indian government and its citizens, transcending political affiliations. He recounted his meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, during which His Holiness emphasised the importance of religious harmony, as the MP underscored the diversity within his delegation, comprising individuals from Hindu, Muslim, and Christian backgrounds.

Reflecting on history, Dr. Tharoor noted India’s warm reception of His Holiness and Tibetan refugees in 1959, emphasising how the Dalai Lama has since disseminated messages of love and compassion not only in India but also worldwide.

Dr. Shashi Tharoor is a supporter of Tibet and also a member of the International Network of Parliamentarians on Tibet (INPaT).

-Report filed by Tibetan Parliament in Exile

 

Dr. Shashi Tharoor-led delegation greets Tibetan parliamentarians at the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 30 May 2024.

 

The Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang speaks about the functions of the Tibetan Parliament to the visiting delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor.

Dr. Shashi Tharoor-led delegation poses for a group photo with members of the Standing Committee and Public Accounts Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 30 May 2024.

 

WHO excludes Taiwanese journalists from annual assembly

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Delegates gather for the opening of the World Health Assembly in Geneva on May 22, 2024 (Photo/CPJ)

By Tenzin Nyidon

The World Health Organization (WHO), a United Nations agency, on Monday excluded Taiwanese journalists Judy Tseng and Tien Hsi-ju from participating in its annual assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. This decision followed China’s appeal to side line the democratically governed island nation, further mandating that Taiwanese journalists to submit Chinese passports to attend the assembly.

Tseng and Tien of Taiwan’s public wire news outlet, Central News Agency (CNA), submitted a request for press accreditation on May 9 and 10 to cover the WHO’s World Health Assembly (WHA). In response, they received a message from the UN’s press accreditation unit requesting an “official Chinese passport in accordance with UN policies and General Assembly resolutions.”

Despite re-submitting their Taiwanese passports, the status of their applications remained pending. Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHA is not a new development, as China objects to the participation of the democratically governed island, which it considers its territory. Last year, the same two journalists were also denied entry by UN officials to cover the annual gathering, being told their denial was due to their Taiwan passport holder status.

“A journalist’s nationality should not determine their eligibility for press accreditation to cover one of the most important conferences relating to global health issues in the world,” said Iris Hsu, China representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists. “WHO and the United Nations should not be complicit in China’s relentless effort to block Taiwanese journalists from reporting on crucial health policy-making.”

The WHO’s insistence that Taiwanese reporters submit People’s Republic of China (PRC) passports is not a new phenomenon. In January, former Miss Tibet Tenzin Paldon’s participation in the Miss Global 2023 pageant in Cambodia was abruptly ended after the Chinese government pressured the organizers to have Paldon wear a sash labeled “PRC” instead of “Tibet.” Many argue that such actions highlight the effectiveness of China’s broader propaganda efforts to portray Taiwan and Tibet as parts of China on the international stage.

President’s greetings on the eve of Buddha Purnima

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By  —  Shyamal Sinha

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu in her message on the eve of Buddha Purnima has said: –

“On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, I extend my heartiest congratulations and greetings to all fellow citizens and the followers of Lord Buddha spread all over the world.

The embodiment of compassion, Lord Buddha, has given the message of truth, non-violence, harmony and, love for humanity and all living beings. Lord Buddha had said, ‘Appa Deepo Bhava’ i.e. be a light unto yourself. His teachings of tolerance, self-awareness and good conduct inspire us to serve humanity. His Eightfold Path paves the way for leading a meaningful life.

Let us strengthen social harmony and take pledge for nation-building by imbibing the ideals of Bhagwan Buddha in our lives”.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates the New President of Taiwan

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Representation Image: His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.

 

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to His Excellency Lai Ching-te to offer warm congratulations on his assuming the Presidency of Taiwan, Republic of China.

“It is wonderful to see how firmly rooted democracy has become in Taiwan,” he wrote. “The Taiwanese people have not only developed a flourishing, robust democracy, but have also achieved great prosperity, while at the same time preserving their rich cultural traditions.

“May I wish you every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Taiwan.”

No interest from PRC to resume dialogue: US Congressional Committee on China

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Photo/Asia Times

By Tenzin Nyidon

The 2023 annual report of the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) released on Friday stated that there is no interest from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in resuming the long-stalled dialogue with the representatives of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The commission on China urged the Chinese government to stop treating the Dalai Lama as a “security threat” and to facilitate the resumption of genuine dialogue, without preconditions, between the Chinese government and the Dalai Lama or his representatives.

Despite the Dalai Lama’s consistent stance on seeking autonomy rather than independence for Tibet, a position reiterated over time, the Chinese government has persisted in its refusal to engage in talks regarding Tibetan autonomy.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin stated on April 26 that Beijing would only engage with the Dalai Lama’s representatives, excluding officials of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, and dismissed any possibility of dialogue concerning the long-pending demand for autonomy for Tibetan people. Wang also dismissed any reports of back-channel discussions between the Tibetan Government-in-Exile and the Chinese government, categorising the Government-in-Exile as a “separatist” entity during a press briefing in Beijing. “First, we would only have contact and talks with the personal representative of the 14th Dalai Lama, not the so-called ‘Tibetan government-in-exile’ or the ‘Central Tibetan Administration.’ The Chinese government will not be dealing with it,” he said.

This statement came after the President of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile Sikyong Penpa Tsering disclosed to a group of journalists in Dharamshala a day earlier, that informal back-channel engagements had been ongoing since last year. “We have had back-channel (engagement) since last year. But we have no immediate expectations from it. It has to be a long-term (one).” Insisting that the talks are “very informal,” Sikyong Penpa Tsering said. “I have my interlocutor who deals with people in Beijing. Then, there are other elements also trying to reach out to us.”

The dialogue between Beijing and representatives of the Dalai Lama began with fact-finding Tibetan delegations visiting Tibet in 1979 and 1980, followed by exploratory talks in Beijing in 1982 and 1984. From 2002 onwards, nine rounds of discussions took place between envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and China’s United Front Work Department.

Throughout these talks, the Tibetan delegation advocated for genuine autonomy for Tibet within the framework of Chinese constitutional principles and the Law on Regional National Autonomy, culminating in the presentation of a memorandum and note to the Chinese leadership. However, the ninth and final round of talks occurred in 2010 and 2012, the Dalai Lama’s envoys resigned after the ninth round, citing the deteriorating situation in Tibet and a perceived lack of sincerity and willingness from the Chinese side.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Presides Over 100 Million Mani Recitations (Mani Dhungdrub)

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama greeting members of the crowd as he walks through the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard on his way to attenda Mani Dhungdrub prayer session in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Bags of mani pills to be blessed during the Mani Dhugdrub prayer sessions arranged in the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness the Dalai Lama joining in the recitation of prayers during the Mani Dhungdrub prayer session at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness the Dalai Lama reading the Prayer of Jowo Wati Sangpo, the statue of Avalokiteshvara from Kyidrong, Tibet that he composed, during his visit to attend a Mani Dhungdrub prayer session at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

The Jowo Wati Sangpo, the statue of Avalokiteshvara from Kyidrong, Tibet on display in the Main Tibetan Temple during His Holiness’s visit to attend a Mani Dhungdrub prayer session at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Monks reciting prayers during the Mani Dhungdrub prayer session attended by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness the Dalai Lama reciting from the text during the Mani Dhungdrub prayer session at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness the Dalai Lama departing from the Main Tibetan Temple after attending a Mani Dhungdrub prayer session in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

A young Tibetan watches as His Holiness the Dalai Lama makes his way back to his residence after attending a Mani Dhungdrub prayer session at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on May 11, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

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