Mundgod, Karnataka: Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay inaugurated the newly built staff quarter of DTR hospital in Mundgod yesterday.

The project saw its competition due to the fund contributed by Vimala Association and Italian based Italian Buddhist Union.

In his inaugural speech, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay extended his gratitude to the association including its representative Debbie Carrani who has served for the welfare of Tibetans in exile for more than 34 years.  He also appreciated the Italian Buddhist Union for their enormous contributions.

“Normally churches and cathedrals across some European countries receive funding from the government.  In Italy, however, Buddhism is the third most spread religion acknowledged by the government as an official religion. And now they are eligible to receive direct funds from the government for its religious and social activities. The Buddhist associations in Italy are not only active in Italy but they are contributing to the welfare of other communities ” remarked Sikyong.

Finally, Sikyong applauded the staff for the selfless service and felicitated the donors.

In attendance were Chorig Kalon Ven Karma Gelek Yuthok, parliamentarians Atuk Tseten and Gowo Lobsang Phende, Chief Representative of Southern Tibetan settlements, and settlements officers.