Bir, 21 October 2026: Health Kalon Pema Tso of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) conducted her maiden official visit to the Tibetan settlements of Chauntra, Bir Dege, Bir Tibetan Society, and Tashi Jong.

During the visit, she met settlement officials, local assembly representatives, healthcare workers, and community members. She inspected health facilities, ongoing health-related projects supported through the Department of Health, CTA, and visited the Chauntra Dhonden Old People’s Home and Men-Tsee-Khang units in Chauntra and Bir.

Addressing residents at Lily Village, the Health Kalon stressed the importance of preserving Tibetan language and culture, ensuring quality education for children, maintaining community harmony, and promoting cleanliness and hygiene. She also encouraged youth to explore opportunities in Establishment 22 and pursue studies in Sowa Rigpa.

The Kalon highlighted the 17th Kashag’s commitment to engaging with communities, understanding local challenges, improving healthcare access, and supporting vulnerable members of society. She expressed appreciation for the dedication of healthcare personnel and emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate patient records to strengthen healthcare services.

The visit concluded at Tashi Jong Settlement, where she met local representatives and healthcare staff to discuss community health services. As a gesture of appreciation, the presidents of the three Bir Local Tibetan Assemblies presented the Health Kalon with a souvenir.