Miao: On 25 August 2025, the Miao Choephelling Settlement Officer, along with the secretary of the Tibetan Cooperative Society, warmly welcomed the Department of Home Secretary Palden Dhondup, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), upon his arrival at Dibrugarh airport. The visit marked a critical engagement aimed at strengthening the welfare and development of the Choephelling settlement, and as a chief guest on the inaugural day of the Cooperative Society’s General Body Meeting.

On 26 August, the newly constructed staff quarter for the settlement officer was officially inaugurated. This facility is expected to enhance the living conditions for the settlement officer and improve administrative efficiency.

At 9:00 AM on 26 August, CTA Home Secretary Palden Dhondup addressed the residents of the Choephelling settlement. The talk focused on three main topics. First, he shared insights from his tenure at the Department of Home, highlighting the ongoing efforts and strategies implemented to promote the welfare of Tibetan settlements.

Second, he introduced the Youth Empowerment Support Plus (YES+) initiative, emphasising its role in empowering Tibetan youth. He further announced plans to establish YES+ branches in Ladakh and the Miao Tibetan Settlement to strengthen youth engagement and development.

Third, Secretary Palden Dhondup stressed the importance of Tibetans joining the Two-Two army as a means of contributing to the broader Tibetan cause and enhancing community security.

Following the public meeting, the CTA Home Secretary toured the Demo-Farm, observing and supervising the plantation and maintenance of the demo farm. He discussed and underlined the critical role of agriculture in making the settlement self-sustaining. Additionally, he emphasised the need for the Demo-Farm’s expansion and requested that relevant authorities support this initiative.

In the afternoon, the secretary held an informal meeting with all the heads and camp leaders of the settlement, during which he gave a motivational talk addressing local governance and community issues.

The Secretary then visited the old people’s home and the settlement office, expressing concern for the welfare of the elderly and the operational efficiency of the settlement administration.

Lastly, he inspected several structures requiring renovation, including the old staff quarters and the old hostel, and urged that necessary improvements be undertaken promptly to enhance living conditions.

The visit by CTA Home Secretary Palden Dhondup was a significant step toward reinforcing the welfare, empowerment, and sustainable development of the Choephelling settlement. The initiatives discussed and the commitments made during the visit are expected to have a positive impact on the community’s future growth and resilience.

-Report filed by TSO Miao Choephelling