Shillong, 20 January 2025: As part of the year-long observance of the “Year of Compassion,” honouring the 90th birth anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Community in Shillong, under the banner of the Regional Ghoton Organising Committee, has been carrying out monthly social welfare initiatives.

In accordance with the planned schedule, the month of January was marked by a free winter clothing distribution programme for poor and needy families, keeping in view the severe winter conditions. The committee identified Mawlyngad Village in East Khasi Hills district through Pastor Rubin of the Presbyterian Church, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, and coordinated with the village headman via the village pastor, Bhakupar. The objectives of the initiative were explained in detail, and the village authorities expressed their appreciation and gratitude for selecting their village.

Mawlyngad Village, located in a far-flung area of East Khasi Hills, comprises approximately 500 households. The residents are largely daily wage earners dependent on stone-crushing and agricultural labour, with earnings that barely meet their basic needs. After consultations with the village pastor and headman, the committee decided to carry out the distribution on Tuesday, with the aim of reaching every needy household in the village.

Winter clothing distributed included woollen sweaters, jackets, hoodies, trousers, and woollen socks for men and women, as well as unisex clothing for children. In addition, stationery items and chocolates were provided to the children of the village. The clothes were collected from members of the Tibetan community in Shillong and consisted largely of unused garments, including old stocks from Tibetan garment shops that no longer met current market trends, along with a limited number of gently used clothes from Tibetan households that were in good condition.

The initiative received an overwhelming response from both contributors and beneficiaries. A large number of people from both communities participated, further strengthening compassion, communal harmony, unity, and mutual understanding between the Tibetan community and the local population. The programme successfully reached vulnerable and needy sections of society living in a remote area and reflected the true spirit of compassion advocated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

– Report filed by Tibetan Settlement Office, Shillong