Odisha: A delegation from the Department of Home, CTA, conducted an official tour and field visit at the Phuntsokling Tibetan Settlement in Odisha from 26 April to 1 May 2026, with the aim of supporting development efforts and preparing for a new community programme.

The visit was led by Karma Dolma, Joint Secretary of the Department of Home, who oversees the South and Central Tibetan Settlements. The team comprised consultants from Nepal and programme staff from The Tibet Fund. The visit reflected ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and strengthen coordination among the residents of the settlement.

Consultants from Nepal, Kailash and Bibek, along with Dawa Palmo from The Tibet Fund, conducted a structured field assessment to evaluate the feasibility of the Community-Managed Revolving Fund (CMRF) programme, align key stakeholders, and engage with community members and business groups across all five camps. They also interacted with camp leaders and local groups, and delivered a three-day training on savings and credit mobilisation in preparation for the programme launch.

Simultaneously, Kunchok Dolma from The Tibet Fund conducted a participatory vulnerability assessment under the multi-sector development programme across all five camps. A total of 207 households participated in identifying the most vulnerable families. The assessment tool identifies vulnerability based on parameters such as income, debt, livelihood skills, health, education, mental well-being, and social support. Both the CMRF and multi-sector development programmes are supported with assistance from the American people.

During the visit, Joint Secretary Karma Dolma inspected both completed and ongoing projects to assess their implementation status and ensure they were being carried out in accordance with approved plans. She also reviewed 17 houses under the Building Back Compact Community (BBCC) project and interacted with the beneficiaries. Furthermore, she toured all five camps, monasteries, a nunnery, the Old People’s Home, Kailash Hostel, and various other project sites.

The official tour concluded with a meeting with the staff of the Tibetan Settlement Office and the Old People’s Home on 1 May 2026. The team departed from the settlement on the morning of 2 May 2026.

– Report filed by Department of Home, CTA