DHARAMSHALA: Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay began his visit to the Tibetan settlements in West Bengal with public talks on importance of education and unity at Kurseong and Sonada on 6 Oct.

“The international community and India had watched with interest the historical democratic transition when His Holiness the Dalai Lama devolved his political authorities to the elected leadership. The Central Tibetan Administration  (CTA) has successfully took over the responsibility with a stable and well-functioning administration in the last three years since the transition,” Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay said during the public talk at Kurseong.

He said the CTA is making every effort to build good relationship with the new Indian government and the latter has shown continued support for the Tibetan people. Also, the US Congress and government have continued their support in the health, education and political cause of the Tibetan people.

Later in the afternoon, Sikyong visited Tibetan settlement at Sonada. Speaking to the public and schoolchildren, he urged students to study hard and informed them about various scholarships provided by the CTA.

He emphasized the need of unity amongst Tibetans and to have clear understanding of the efforts made by the CTA to seek genuine autonomy for the Tibetan people through the Middle Way Approach.

He also encouraged Tibetans to view Tibet.net and Tibet online TV to keep themselves abreast of policies and activities of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Sikyong is scheduled to speak to the students and general public at Darjeeling today. He will grace the 50th anniversary of CST Kalimpong on 8 Oct.