Tibetan Women’s Association Begins Awareness Tour
Journey from Dharamshala to Delhi
The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) has launched a significant awareness tour from Dharamshala, India, to Delhi. This six-day journey began on November 14, coinciding with Indian Children’s Day, and will conclude on November 20, World Children’s Day.
Purpose of the Tour
The tour aims to draw attention to the ‘alarming situation for Tibetan children and the environment in Tibet.’ Activists are traveling on three bikes to spread their message.
Concerns for Tibetan Children
According to Tenzin Yingsel, a project officer at TWA, Tibetan children, including nuns and monks under 14, are being sent to Chinese government-run colonial boarding schools. These schools focus solely on teaching Chinese Mandarin, depriving children of their native language.
Environmental Issues
The tour also highlights environmental concerns in Tibet, known as the ‘roof of the world.’ The region is crucial as it is the source of seven major Asian rivers. However, activities like damming and illegal mining are disrupting the ecological balance, affecting countries like India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
The activists are urging Indians to support their cause to stop these practices and protect Tibetan culture and environment.
Doubts Revealed
Tibetan Women’s Association -: The Tibetan Women’s Association is a group that works to support Tibetan women and their rights. They also focus on issues affecting the Tibetan community, like education and the environment.
Dharamshala -: Dharamshala is a city in India where many Tibetans live, including the Dalai Lama, who is a spiritual leader. It is known for being a center of Tibetan culture and government-in-exile.
Chinese colonial boarding schools -: These are schools in China where Tibetan children are sent to study. Some people are concerned that these schools might teach children to forget their Tibetan culture and language.
World Children’s Day -: World Children’s Day is celebrated on November 20th every year. It is a day to promote the welfare and rights of children all around the world.
Ecological balance -: Ecological balance means keeping the environment healthy and stable. It involves making sure that plants, animals, and humans can all live together without harming each other.