Mr Dawa Tsultrim, the Health Secretary, along with the section heads from the Department, participated in the ongoing 15th administrative conference of the settlement officers at Gangkyi, Dharamshala on November 9. The Secretary introduced the new administrative structural changes within the Department and highlighted the crucial role played by the settlement officers in the effective implementation of public health programs. The Department’s current programs and projects are administered based on the geographical location of the exiled Tibetan community, except the Tibetan Medicare System (TMS).

Similar to the Department of Home, the DOHe begins the administration and implementation of its program under three zones namely Center and South Zone; North Zone and Northeast and Nepal. Secretary Dawa Tsultrim urged all settlement officers to be informed of the timely submission of project and field medical expenses, dedicated slots for public health education and awareness during official functions and ceremonies. He also called upon the settlement officers for continued collective efforts to improve the public health of the exiled Tibetan community.

Deputy Secretary Ngawang Tenzin conducted a session on mental health given the challenging tasks of the settlement officers and the role of settlement officers in promoting and supporting mental health in one’s community. She introduced DOHe’s mental health program along with current global discourse addressing mental health issues. While touching upon recommended tools and tips for keeping a good state of mental well-being, she emphasized the importance of self-awareness and timely reaching out for support. The session concluded with a note for creating a positive and supportive community for addressing mental health issues.