Delhi:  On 12 August 2025, afternoon, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the incumbent Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Home (DoH), visited Buddha Vihar and the Samyeling Tibetan settlement. The visits included prayer offerings at local monasteries, office visits with community leaders, an inspection tour and a public address to the Tibetan residents.

In the afternoon, Sikyong Penpa Tsering visited Buddha Vihar, and he was warmly received by Delhi Samyeling Tibetan Settlement Officer Dorjee Tsering, Buddha Vihar representative Tenzin Pelha, Bodh Vihar Traders’ Association President Tenzin Passang, representatives from the Tibetan Reception Centre and members of the local Tibetan communities. The visit began with a prayer offering at Dolma Lhakhang (temple), followed by an inspection around the surrounding areas and engagement with residents.

Following the Buddha Vihar visit, Sikyong proceeded to the TCV Day School at Samyeling Settlement (Majnu-ka-Tilla). He also visited the creche, Men-Tse-Khang, local Primary Health Centre, Tibetan Settlement Office, Tibetan Women’s Association Office, Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement office and Jangchup Lhakhang.

After completing the site visits, Sikyong addressed a public gathering, which was initiated by a briefing from the Samyeling Tibetan Settlement Officer. Department of Home Secretary, Palden Dhondup, also addressed the audience, outlining the objectives of the visit and introducing various ongoing projects under the Department of Home. He particularly emphasised the resettlement project being implemented under the current 16th Kashag.

In his speech, Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressed the ongoing land issues concerning the Samyeling area in Delhi. He observed that Majnu-ka-Tilla has undergone notable development in recent years, with the rise of numerous shops, guest houses, and new buildings. However, he stressed the urgent need for proper electrical wiring in these structures, warning that poor installations pose significant risks such as short circuits and potential fire outbreaks.

“Since we are living in exile in another country, we must fully abide by Indian laws. If any problems arise, it won’t just affect individuals—it could create difficulties for our entire community,” said Sikyong Penpa Tsering during his public address.

He also reminded the gathering of the immense gratitude owed to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, stating that it is solely due to His Holiness’s efforts and compassion that Tibetans have been able to live in exile and preserve their identity. Given that Samyeling is located in the Indian capital, Sikyong shared plans to establish an exhibition hall to showcase the life, activities, and contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, aiming to raise broader awareness.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering reiterated that resolving the Tibet-China issue remains a top priority, and achieving this goal requires dialogue with China and international support. A key part of this process, he explained, is promoting understanding of the Middle Way Approach (MWA). He pointed out the MWA’s two points: Tibet was historically an independent nation, and Tibet is currently under Chinese occupation. We must make the international community understand and value of the Middle Way Approach. He also emphasised the need to know history to prove that Tibet is historically an independent nation.

“At the same time, we must work diligently to build formal relations with as many countries as possible while His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is still in good health. Much of the global recognition and support for the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) exists because of His Holiness’s immense influence and moral authority,” he explained.

Sikyong also shared that during His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s recent official birthday celebration in Dharamshala, an impressive and historic gathering of 216 journalists attended, demonstrating His Holiness’s global influence. The Kashag and administrative staff made the most of this opportunity and successfully organised a memorable event.

“I also want to highlight the key resolutions passed at the 15th Tibetan Religious Conference, where Tibetan religious leaders gathered and expressed their heartfelt gratitude to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. This was both a fortunate and historically significant occasion for all of us.”

Following these remarks, he provided a brief overview of the work carried out by various departments of the Central Tibetan Administration, including the Education Department’s scholarship programs, initiatives by the Department of Religion and Culture, digitisation and library projects, and the International Tibet Youth Forum (ITYF). The gathering concluded with a public Q&A session.

Sikyong was joined by Home Secretary Palden Dhondup, Representative Jigme Jungney from the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Settlement Officer Dorjee Tsering, Local Tibetan Assembly President Ngodup Choephel, Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement President Kunga Tashi, representatives from various associations, and local Tibetans.

On 13 August 2025, Sikyong Penpa Tsering is scheduled to visit Phuntsokling Tibetan Settlement, followed by a visit to Ludhiana on 15 August 2025 for a Ghoton celebration, an event organised by the Ludhiana Traders’ Association.