In the morning, before the actual celebration, the SARD team conducted a comprehensive awareness session for Tibetan Sweater Sellers, focusing on the Tibetan Refugee Livelihood Support Program (TRLSP) and the Tibetan Solidarity Alliance, also known as the Blue Book initiative.

In his opening remarks, Finance Secretary Tsering Dhondup emphasised the importance of annual voluntary business contributions to the Central Tibetan Administration and called for strengthened participation in the Blue Book program. He also elaborated on TRLSP’s role in providing vital financial support to improve the livelihoods of Tibetan families across India.

Program Officer Tsepak Wangmo presented a detailed overview of TRLSP to the Tibetan Sweater Sellers representing from 238 Tibetan markets across India. Her presentation aimed to enhance understanding of the program’s procedures to ensure effective implementation.

The session served as a crucial platform to gather feedback on the draft TRLSP guidelines. The constructive inputs provided by participants are expected to play a key role in refining the final framework of the program.

Blue Book Program Officer, Dolma Yangkyi, introduced the Tibetan Solidarity Alliance (Blue Book) to representatives of Tibetan sweater markets. Her session aimed at raising awareness and encouraging broader community engagement with the initiative.

The interactive Q&A session allowed participants to voice their questions and concerns regarding both the livelihood and Blue Book programs. The initiatives were well received by the Tibetan Sweater Sellers in Ludhiana, who lauded SARD’s efforts in making the programs more inclusive and responsive to grassroots needs.

-Report filed by Department of Finance, CTA