Dharamshala: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day of India, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) observed a brief ceremony at Gangchen Kyishong on 15 August 2026 to commemorate the historic occasion and express solidarity with the people of India. The ceremony was attended by the heads of the three pillars of the Central Tibetan Administration, Kalon (Minister), Members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE), Secretaries, senior officials and staff of various departments of the CTA.
The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the Indian national flag by Sikyong Penpa Tsering, followed by the rendition of the Indian national anthem.
Addressing the media on the occasion, Sikyong Penpa Tsering expressed gratitude to the Government and people of India for their longstanding support and hospitality towards the Tibetan people. He said that the participation of the CTA leadership, dignitaries and staff in the flag-hoisting ceremony and singing the Indian national anthem was a meaningful expression of solidarity with the people of India.
Reflecting on India’s struggle for independence, Sikyong said the occasion serves as a reminder to Tibetans outside – the value of freedom and democracy, particularly as Tibetans inside Tibet continue to face a critical situation under the rule of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). He noted that India’s independence was achieved through generations of struggle and the sacrifices which will serve as a source of inspiration and hope for Tibetans.
Sikyong recalled the sacrifices of Tibetan freedom fighters, including the recent self-immolation of Lobga Rangzen, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of Tibet. He said that while such sacrifices may not bring immediate responses, the courage and sacrifices of those who have given their lives for Tibet will remain part of world history and be remembered by future generations.
He reaffirmed that the Tibetan people will continue their peaceful struggle for freedom while expressing their deep appreciation to the Government and people of India for their continued support. In response to questions from the media, Sikyong Penpa Tsering commended the CTA and the TPiE for their plans to hold an official prayer service in Dharamshala on 20 August 2026, commemorating the 49th day since the passing of Lobga Rangzen.
