Sataun, Himachal Pradesh: As part of the Ghoton programme marking His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th Birth year, celebrated as the “Year of Compassion”, the Kham Kathok Tibetan Settlement organised a clothes distribution event for needy families in Paonta Sahib near the Yamuna River on the auspicious occasion of White Wednesday, 26 November 2025.

Under the supervision of Settlement Officer Ugen Choedon Oshoe, clothes were collected from residents of the Kham Kathok Tibetan Settlement starting in September. In addition, 175 small blankets were purchased in Paonta Sahib to further support the needs of the local slum community.

With the onset of winter, the Settlement Officer and TSO staff visited the slum area to assess living conditions and establish contact with the local leader, Durgesh Kumar.

On 26 November 2025, at 10:00 am, the distribution began for a crowd of approximately 200 residents from the slum. The area comprised around 40 families, made up largely of young adults and children living in impoverished conditions, with ages ranging from 60 years to a three-month-old infant. A variety of items were distributed, including blankets, shawls, shoes, and clothing for both adults and children. The initiative aimed to embody the teachings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, particularly the emphasis on helping others whenever possible.

Thanks to the efforts of the Kham Kathok Ghoton Committee and the support of Durgesh Kumar, the distribution concluded successfully at 11:30 am, with every item accounted for and put to use by those in need.

-Report filed by TSO, Sataun