DHARAMSHALA: The Kalon of the Department of Home visited Israel from 5 to 16 February to assess the condition and progress of Tibetan students undergoing agriculture training.

During the visit Kalon Dolma Gyari, accompanied by Additional Secretary Mr Chhemey Rigzen, (Officer In charge of Agriculture), met with the officials of AICAT, Southern Arava, Agriculture Research & Development Institute and the Israeli Tibet Friend Association.

Additional Secretary Mr Chhemey Rigzen said that the visit has helped in clarifying pending matters, strengthening of the working relations and planning future projects.   

The Home Department of Central Tibetan Administration has been working in close partnership with the Arava International Center for Agriculture Training (AICAT ) and the Israeli Tibet Friend Association, over a decade for the promotion of agriculture in the exile Tibetan community. In 1998, a first batch of 15 students were send to Israel for a 10-month agricultural study, during which students also gain experiences through field work. The 2012-2013 programme consists of 51 students, including qualified newly-arrived Tibetan refugees for the first time. Till date 606 students joined and benefitted through the programme.