Dharamshala: Bharat-Tibet Samanvay Sangh (BTSS) organised a two-day virtual International Conference titled “Tibet & Tibetans: Present and Future” on 27th & 28th November 2021 with an aim to bring together leading researchers, scientists, social scientists, social activists, academicians, and journalists across the world who are in support of Tibet to exchange and share their research experiences, and to provide a platform to promote Interdisciplinary approach between Indian and Tibetan educational institutions, Indigenous Tibetan medicines and medicinal practices and Establishment of cultural symbiosis in India and Tibet.

The broad areas discussed during the conference were human rights violations of Tibetans in Tibet, free Tibet movement, cultural heritage of Tibet, the contribution of Tibetan literature in the field of Science and meditation, Tibetan medicines: An alternative way of medication and Tibetan education System. 

Kalon Norzin Dolma, Minister for Department of Information & International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration was present as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the conference. She came forward with many valuable ideas on the social unity, equality, and security of India and Tibet. Particularly stressing on the Indo-Tibet relations, Kalon Norzin said that the Buddhist culture of Tibet that was originated from India is an essential part of Tibetan identity while further noting it has also become an integral part of Tibetan polity, history, art and medicines.

” The systems of ancient Indian’s sutras and tantras are well incorporated in Tibetan Buddhist texts and practices. Even the unique Tibetan script and art are strongly rooted in India’s culture. In terms of Tibetan medicines too, the system is strongly related to the Indian system of medicine” Kalon noted.

“No one has more love and faith in the great nation of India as His Holiness the Dalai Lama do who is globally loved by people across the world for his sense of peace and compassion. His Holiness has constantly regarded India as exemplary for religious harmony and India’s ancient knowledge a relevant solution to modern world problems” said the Kalon of CTA.

On the structural importance of the seminar and its role, Prof. Manoj Dixit (former Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University) gave his statement. Mr. O. P. Tiwari (Former Air vice Marshal, India) presented his views on the security of Tibet and explained why Tibet is important for India. Dr. N. Shiva Subramaniam (Former Senior Scientist, ISRO, India) expressed his important views on Tibetan development, improvement, and promotion. Prof. P. D. Juyal (Convenor, ICTT 2021) welcomed all the guest speakers. Prof. Sunil (NIT Hamirpur) expressed his gratitude to all the guests. The first session was conducted by Dr. Sumitra Singh (Amity University, Noida). Finally, the session ended with the national anthem.

Padma Shri Prof Geshe Ngawang Samten gave an informative lecture on the theme of ICTT-2021 and stressed the importance of such a conference in the future. Prof (Dr) Phunstog Wangmo (USA) and Dr. Pema Namdol (Dehradoon) spoke about Tibetan Medicine. Mrs. Kalden Tsomo, UN Advocacy Officer, The Tibet Bureau, Geneva spoke on human rights violations by China. Finally, Tibet Freedom activist Mr. Tenzin Tsundue aware the public about Tibet Border and its importance.

A total of 128 participants around the world registered for this conference. Out of 18 research papers, 8 papers were selected for presentations. A total of 4 technical sessions and 2 paper presentation sessions were organised.

The valedictory session was conducted by Mrs. Jyoti Sharma, National Executive Member of BTSS. Pro. Harikesh Singh, Hon’ble former Vice-Chancellor, Jaiprakash University, Chhapra was the chief guest for this session.

-Report filed by ITCO, New Delhi