Sikyong Penpa Tsering with the participants of the three-day Tibetan Agriculture Conference.

Bylakuppe: The Tibetan Agriculture Conference, organised by the Department of Home (CTA), was commenced yesterday at the Organic Research and Training Center (ORTC) in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, with Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the incumbent Kalon (Minister) of the Home Department, as its chief guest. This conference, scheduled from 20 to 22 February 2025, aimed to address the agricultural challenges within Tibetan settlements and explore sustainable farming solutions.

Before entering the conference hall, Sikyong visited the surrounding offices and cattle shed to gain a deeper understanding of the facility’s operations. The event was attended by Secretary Palden Dhondup, Department of Home (DoH); Jigmey Tsultrim, Chief Representative Officer of the South Zone; Additional Secretary Tsering Youdon, DoH; Tsering Dorjee, Director of the ORTC; and various settlement officers and agriculture extension officers from agriculture-based Tibetan settlements across India, as well as representatives from the Department of Home’s Agriculture Section.

The conference began with remarks by Home Secretary Palden Dhondup, who reflected on the evolution of Tibetan agriculture in exile. He highlighted the significant advancements made since the early years when settlers grew only a few crops with limited agricultural knowledge. While discussing modern farming practices, he cautioned about the potential dangers of using chemical fertilisers and pesticides, emphasising the need for sustainable and environmentally-friendly approaches.

Following the Secretary’s opening remarks, Sikyong Penpa Tsering delivered keynote address, underscoring the CTA’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture across Tibetan settlements. Sikyong noted that in the 1960s and 70s, Tibetan settlers were primarily engaged in subsistence farming, relying on staple crops such as maize, potatoes, and millets. However, with the support of initiatives led by the CTA and His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s vision of self-sufficiency, Tibetan farming has evolved. The establishment of centres like ORTC and the adoption of modern techniques have enabled farmers to diversify crops, improve soil quality, and focus on organic agriculture.

Sikyong also addressed the critical issue of over-reliance on chemical fertilisers, reinforcing Home Secretary’s concerns. Sikyong stressed, “We must strike a balance between modern advancements and traditional wisdom”. Sikyong further emphasised that organic farming, such as composting and natural pest control, must become central to Tibetan agricultural practices to ensure long-term sustainability.

A key point Sikyong made was the need for youth engagement in farming. With many young Tibetans migrating to urban areas and moving away from agriculture, Sikyong encouraged the younger generation to see farming as a viable and dignified career. He noted that with proper training and financial support, youth could play an integral role in modernising Tibetan agriculture and ensuring food security for their communities.

In his concluding remarks, Sikyong reaffirmed CTA’s commitment to providing ongoing financial and technical support to farmers. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of India, particularly Karnataka, for its continued support of Tibetan settlements and their agricultural initiatives. The conference will continue for two more days, with further discussions on sustainable farming practices and the future of Tibetan agriculture.

The conference provided a valuable platform for settlement officers, agricultural experts, and farmers to discuss ongoing challenges, exchange knowledge, and propose strategies for enhancing agricultural productivity. The participants were divided into groups to discuss key agricultural issues, share best practices, and collaborate on actionable plans for sustainable farming in Tibetan settlements.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering inspecting the premises of the Organic Research and Training Center (ORTC) in Bylakuppe, accompanied by Tsering Dorjee, Director of the Organic Research and Training Centre (ORTC).

Sikyong Penpa Tsering along with Home Secretary Palden Dhondup and other officials, inspecting the surrounding of cattle shed.

Sikyong lighting a ceremonial butter lamp.

Home Secretary Palden Dhondup delivering the opening remarks during the Tibetan Agriculture Conference.

A glimpse of a conference on ‘Agriculture Conference’.

A glimpse of a conference on ‘Agriculture Conference’.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering speaking about CTA’s long-term vision for agricultural development and sustainability.

Participation from different settlements during the conference.

A glimpse of a conference on ‘Agriculture Conference’.

Concluding remarks by Tsering Youdon, Additional Secretary from the Department of Home.