Centre for Middle-Way Initiative Marks 16th Anniversary
By Yangchen Lhamu
DHARAMSALA, 18 Sept: The Centre for Middle Way Initiative (Umay Lam), a Tibetan non-profit organisation, celebrated a major milestone today: its 16th anniversary. The occasion was marked with a special celebration held at the Dharamsala Tibetan Settlement Office Hall in McLeod Ganj.
Dongchung Ngodup, a former Kalon (Minister) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), was the chief guest. Dharamsala’s Tibetan Settlement Officer, Kunchok Migmar, was also in attendance.
The Chief Guest, Dongchung Ngodup, emphasised the significance of the Middle Way Approach, especially in Tibet, particularly under Chinese governance. He said, “Despite various interpretations circulating in society, this approach has yet to yield tangible results.” However, he underscored the pressing need for a peaceful resolution, especially considering Tibet’s complex situation.
He further emphasised the critical importance of the Middle Way Approach in today’s context. “Recent actions by the Chinese government have raised serious concerns,” Ngodup stated. “They’ve imposed new restrictions on the study of the Tibetan language, which is deeply troubling to Tibetans and our supporters worldwide. In these challenging times, the Middle Way Approach is more important than ever. It offers us hope and a path forward. We believe its success is vital for protecting our language and culture while also promoting peaceful coexistence with China and securing meaningful autonomy for Tibet.”
He also reflected that though Tibet’s current reality is fraught with challenges and hardships, its resilient people hold fast to an unshakeable conviction that as time brings change, it also brings a brighter future.
The Dalai Lama’s Middle Way Approach offers a peaceful solution to the Tibetan issue, seeking genuine autonomy within China’s framework rather than independence. This approach prioritises preserving Tibetan culture, language, and environment while ensuring unity and stability for both Tibetans and Chinese.
In essence, the Middle Way Approach aims to create a harmonious coexistence between Tibet and China, respecting the fundamental rights of the Tibetan people while acknowledging China’s sovereignty. This mutually beneficial solution has been the official policy of the Central Tibetan Administration since 1974.
Tibetan Settlement Officer Kunchok Migmar, in his address, warned against a misguided segment of Tibetans misrepresenting the Middle Way Approach, potentially dividing the community. He urged Tibetans to understand the approach’s true principles, remain vigilant against misinformation, and maintain unity in pursuit of a peaceful resolution.
The event also witnessed felicitations held to commemorate its anniversary and promote Tibetan language and culture. The organisation awarded a cash price of rupees 7,143 each to the top 14 students performing in the Tibetan subject in the class 12th board exam. While some students attended the event and collected the awards, for the rest, their parents and relatives collected it on their behalf.
