Leh, Ladakh: Kalon Choekyong Wangchuk of Department of Heath, CTA concluded his 4-day official visit to Leh as he participated in the function of 84th birthday celebration of H.H the Dalai Lama as the guest of Honor. The event was organized in collaboration with the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and Chief Representative Office (CRO) at Phodrang Shiwae-Tsel, where Tibetans and locals took part in a huge number. The celebration was attended by the Chief Executive Councilor of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Divisional Commissioner, Add. Deputy Commissioner, Taklung Matrul Rinpoche, Thugsey Rinpoche, President of All Ladakh Gonpa Association, President of LBA, TPiE member, Tibetan government and non-government organizations.

Health Kalon Choekyong Wangchuk on behalf of CTA extended greetings on the joyous occasion to the general public and eminent personalities present at the event. In his speech, he reiterated that the best gift that we can offer to His Holiness the Dalai Lama is our unity, integrity, and brotherhood.

He concluded his speech urging everyone to pray for the long life and good health for his holiness.

Health Kalon was warmly welcomed at Leh on 3 July by the chief representative officer and Health executive secretary at the airport.

A large reception was hosted at the settlement office by local Tibetans, camp leaders, health staffs, non-governmental organizations with a welcome note by Chief Representative Officer, followed by a brief note from the Health Kalon.

During his visit, Health Kalon made a courtesy call to Mr. Gyal P. Wangyal, newly elected Chief Executive Counsellor of LAHDC and Shri. Swagat Biswas, Divisional Commissioner of Ladakh and Mr. P.T Kunzang, the newly elected President of Ladakh Buddhist Association, where he expressed his appreciation to their continued support and guidance to the CRO. He also apprised the dignitaries about the need for their assistance in welfare works of Sonamling settlement.

On 4th July, an inaugural ceremony of newly built Jangthang ney-so Khang (Housing Service Centre for Jangthang People) at Camp no 1, Ladakh was held. The ceremony began with a prayer by a Rinpoche, followed by scarf offering to the portrait of H.H The 14th Dalai Lama. Tibetan parliamentarian, Chief Representative Officer, heads of Institutes, Directors of TCV School and Men-Tsee-Khang, camp heads and non-governmental organizations’ heads were also present on this occasion.

Health Kalon addressed the audience and explained that the prime purpose of this housing is to alleviate the burden of admitting sick residents of Jangthang to Leh hospital and to create a more convenient experience for the chronic patients in Leh. Nevertheless, he expressed his hopes and prayers for fewer health issues.

Kalon had a lengthy meeting with the Leh Nutrition project team (LNP) and visited all the Health project sites. LNP is a partner of TVHA based in Leh, who implements CTA, Health department’s projects aiming to enhance the wellbeing of Tibetan children and communities through WASH interventions in Ladakh.

Kalon also paid a visit to Men-Tsee-Khang Cultural Centre, Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute. Chief Representative Officer, Health Executive Secretary, Men-tsee-Khang’s Director, all the practitioners and staffs of both allopathic and Traditional Men-tsee-Khang were gathered for the meeting. Following a brief speech by CRO, Health Kalon highlighted on the importance and significance of collaborating allopathic and traditional medicine as advised by His Holiness The14th Dalai Lama and urged to strengthen the collaboration to alleviate health problems.

-Filed by Department of Health, CTA