Secretary Palden Dhondup addressing the gathering during inauguration ceremony of Dhonden Old People’s House.

Chauntra: Secretary Palden Dhondup from the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration, inaugurated Dhonden Old People’s House in Chauntra on 6 April 2024.

Along with chief guest Secretary Palden Dhondup, the ceremony was attended by Tibetan Parliamentarians Juchen Kunchok Chodon, Serta Tsultrim, and Wangdue Dorjee as special guests. It was also attended by Home Department’s Additional Secretaries and section head, Tibetan Settlement Officers of Bir, Bir Dege, and Bir-Chauntra Nangchen settlements, and representatives from local Tibetan monasteries and associations.

During the inauguration, Secretary Palden Dhondup spoke about the aims and objectives behind the construction of the Old People’s House and how the Dhonden Old People’s House is better equipped than others. He emphasised the importance of creating a space where the younger generation can provide comfort and companionship to older adults. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of school children assisting the elderly residents in cleaning and performing cultural dances. He requested the director and staff of the old age home to take care of the elderly residents as if they were their own parents, cherishing their presence and being there for them during both their happy and difficult times.

The building of this Old People’s House is funded by the Department of Home and, in part, by the Foundation of the late Lama Soepa Rinpoche. USAID, The Tibet Fund, and Verien Tibetfruende contributed funds to purchase furniture.

-Report filed by Department of Home, CTA