ITANAGAR, Aug 31: A delegation from the Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh (TSGAP), led by its president Tarh Tarak, met with former prime minister of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile professor Samdhong Rimpoche, at the State Guest House in Itanagar.

During the meeting, Tarh Tarak briefed Rimpoche on the activities of the Tibet Support Group in Arunachal Pradesh, which was established in 2013 under the aegis of the Core Group for Tibetan Cause India. He also highlighted the group’s future action plans within the state.

Tarak reiterated TSGAP’s commitment to supporting the Tibetan freedom struggle and assured that the group would continue to work towards the welfare of the Tibetan community residing in Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about Tibetan issues, with the aim of garnering support at various forums. Tarak expressed his hope for the honourable return of the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetans to their homeland within their lifetimes.

Vice-president of TSGAP Hinium Tachu spoke about the historical ties between Tibet and Arunachal Pradesh prior to India’s independence. He underscored the need for Tibet’s freedom from the People’s Republic of China to restore traditional barter trade with the region.

Rimpoche, while blessing the TSGAP delegation, advocated for peace and tranquillity in society. He praised the efforts of the BJP-led government in Arunachal Pradesh under chief minister Pema Khandu and expressed hope for continued support for the Tibetan cause. He thanked TSGAP for its unwavering support and urged the group to develop long-term policies on Tibet. He stressed the importance of involving the youth and raising awareness among the younger generation to carry forward the cause, expressing optimism that Tibet would one day be free from China.

Rimpoche is on a three-day visit to Itanagar from August 30 to September 2,. He was warmly welcomed by TSGAP members, including president Tarh Tarak and secretary General Nima Sange, along with representatives from the Itanagar Buddhist Culture Society, Tuting Memba Welfare Society, Khamba Welfare Society, and Mon Mimang Tsokpa. During his visit, Prof. Rimpoche will conduct a preaching session on “Lap pa Sum” (the three higher trainings and ways to practice them) at the Buddhist Gompa in Itanagar on September 1.