Dharamshala: The two-day 8th Tibetan Health Review Meeting, organised by the Department of Health (DoHe), Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), commenced at the College for Higher Tibetan Studies (CHTS), Sarah, on Thursday, 27 August 2026, with Kalon (Minister) Pema Tso presiding over the event as the Special Guest.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Health Secretary Jampa Phuntsok and Additional Secretary Tenzin Norbu with DoHe staff. A total of 46 administrators and health professionals—including doctors, sMenpas, nurses, and other health workers from various health institutions—participated in the meeting.

The official proceedings began at 9:25 a.m. with the ceremonial lighting of the butter lamp by Health Kalon Pema Tso. Afterwards, a minute of silence to mourn the catastrophic loss of life and massive devastation caused by the flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border.

Health Secretary Jampa Phuntsok open proceedings with a report on the implementation of resolutions passed at the 7th Health Review Meeting.

Following this, Health Kalon Pema Tso addressed the meeting, emphasising the fundamental importance of good health in enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to society. She stated that good health is essential for achieving success in both personal and professional endeavours, and underscored the importance of prioritising health and well-being.

Health Kalon outlined future plans for health promotion, emphasising the establishment of a Health Consultation Committee to strengthen coordination and provide expert guidance within the Tibetan community. She also called for the formation of local health committees to enhance health awareness, preventive care, and community participation in promoting overall well-being.

Additionally, she expressed deep concern over the rising prevalence of psychological and mental health challenges among the younger generation, stressing the critical need for increased awareness, early intervention, and adequate support systems.

Addressing the gathering—which comprised primarily doctors, nurses, and health administrators—she highlighted the noble nature of public service for community welfare and underscored the essential values of kindness, honesty, and compassion in healthcare delivery.

In her keynote address, she emphasised the critical need for accurate statistical data on patients—particularly those affected by tuberculosis and other major illnesses—to enable practical planning and future health initiatives. She called for a clear distinction between core health challenges and actionable solutions, noting the importance of stronger collaboration within hospitals to streamline accurate data collection and drive targeted healthcare strategies.

In her remaining remarks, the Health Kalon addressed the People’s Republic of China’s implementation of the “Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress law”. To take a collective stand against systemic cultural erasure, she highlighted the 17th Kashag’s announcement designating the fourth week of every September as Tibetan Identity Preservation Week—an observance dedicated to safeguarding and strengthening the unique linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage of the Tibetan people.

Before concluding her speech, the Health Kalon urged all participants to engage productively throughout the two-day review meeting and to fulfil their responsibilities with dedication.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Department of Health Additional Secretary Tenzin Norbu.