Bylakuppe: On 14 February 2025, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, who also serves as the Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration, was granted a special audience with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama earlier this morning.
He was accompanied by Honourable Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Government of India, along with his delegation, which included Andra Vamsi, IAS, PS to the Minister, Srinivas Parimala, Additional PS to the Minister, and Madhu Pasunuru, Additional PS to the Minister.
Also present during the meeting were Karnataka’s Home Minister, Dr. Gangadharaiah Parameshwara, his wife Kannika Parameshwari Parameshwara, and four other dignitaries.
The day commenced with blessings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, followed by Kalon (Minister) Dolma Gyari’s courtesy meeting with the Government of India representatives.
Later, Sikyong visited the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) School in Bylakuppe, where he was warmly received by Director Tsering Dorjee and Principal Namgyal Tsering. After a brief discussion at the school’s main offices regarding its current status, he visited two different Class 12 classrooms, engaging with the students.
Speaking to the students, Sikyong encouraged them to prepare well for their upcoming exams but also reminded them not to take unnecessary stress. “Study smart and don’t overburden yourselves. We hear of many students in India struggling with extreme academic pressure, sometimes with tragic consequences. Proper time management will help you do well without feeling overwhelmed,” Sikyong advised.
Sikyong also emphasised the importance of balance, stating, “Exams are important, but they are not everything. What matters most is how well you manage your time and efforts.”
Following his interaction with the students, Sikyong met with the school administration, acknowledging TCV’s crucial role in providing education and stability to Tibetan children in South India. “TCV has played a vital role in addressing the needs of our community and in shaping the future of our younger generations,” he noted.
Following his visit to TCV, Sikyong proceeded to Sambhota Tibetan School (STS), where he was greeted warmly by students and staff at the school gate. Led by Principal Dawa Tashi, he toured several classrooms, sharing memories of his own time as a student at the same school.
During his discussion with the students, Sikyong underscored the importance of both education and character. “Achieving high marks in school is not enough if you don’t demonstrate good manners and discipline. Along with your studies, always remember to respect your teachers and carry yourself with dignity,” he advised.
Sikyong also visited the Sambhota Pre-Primary School, Sambhota CVP School, and Sambhota Tibetan School in Kailashpura (STS), where he interacted with students and teachers.
The highlight of Sikyong’s visit was his interaction with Class 12 students at TCV and his tour of various Tibetan schools in Bylakuppe. His visit reaffirmed the Central Tibetan Administration’s commitment to quality education and student well-being within the Tibetan community.
