Mon Nov 11 11:24:45 UTC 2024: ## Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Affirms Strong Tibet-India Ties, Underscores Importance of Tibetan Culture
**Bomdila, India -** In a clear demonstration of support for Tibetans and their cultural heritage, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has emphasized the historical and enduring relationship between India and Tibet. Speaking at the inauguration of the newly built prayer hall, Dukhang, at the Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery in Bomdila on November 4, Khandu stressed the responsibility of maintaining and continuing this centuries-old connection.
The monastery, founded in the late 1950s by local Tibetans, holds special significance as it was initially offered to the revered Guru Rinpoche as its head and now serves as a center of spirituality and learning under the stewardship of the 12th Guru Chogtrul Rinpoche. The monastery’s affiliated school, Guru Tenpai Dronme, also provides educational benefits to the local community.
Khandu emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Tibetan culture, particularly the Bhoti script. He highlighted the significance of the Nalanda tradition of Buddhism, which originated in India and spread to Tibet and later to Arunachal Pradesh. To foster this understanding, Khandu announced the inclusion of Bhoti teachers in schools across the state and the upcoming launch of scholarships for monks and nuns.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Sikyong (President) Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, MP Tapir Gao, and devotees from neighboring Bhutan.
Khandu’s statement, delivered amidst a large gathering of Tibetan Buddhists, is seen as a strong signal of India’s unwavering support for Tibetans and their cultural heritage. His commitment to preserving the centuries-old India-Tibet relationship further strengthens the ties between the two regions.
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