The cessation of US aid has left the Tibetan exile community vulnerable.
The recent decision by the United States to discontinue all aid to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has left a significant void in the financial support for the Tibetan exile community. This move, which affects various welfare initiatives, educational scholarships, and socio-economic development projects, presents an opportunity for India to step in and reinforce its commitment to the Tibetan cause.
India has a long-standing relationship with the Tibetan community, dating back to the arrival of the 14th Dalai Lama in 1959. The Tibetan spiritual leader and his followers found refuge in India, and since then, the country has been home to the largest Tibetan exile community. This historical bond is not just a matter of shared geography but also of cultural and spiritual connections. By funding the CTA, India can reaffirm its role as a protector of Tibetan culture and heritage.
Supporting the CTA aligns with India’s strategic interests in the region. Tibet holds significant geopolitical importance due to its location between India and China. By strengthening the CTA, India can maintain a buffer against Chinese influence and assert its own strategic interests in the region. This move would also send a strong message to China about India’s commitment to the Tibetan cause and its willingness to support the Tibetan people in their quest for autonomy.
The cessation of US aid has left the Tibetan exile community vulnerable, with potential delays or suspensions in key programs. As a host country, India has a humanitarian responsibility to ensure the well-being of the Tibetan refugees. By providing financial support to the CTA, India can help sustain essential services such as healthcare, education, and socio-economic development, thereby improving the quality of life for the Tibetan community.
India’s support for the CTA would position it as a leader in the international community, advocating for the rights and welfare of the Tibetan people. This move would garner international recognition and support, enhancing India’s global standing as a champion of human rights and democracy. Additionally, it would encourage other countries to follow suit and contribute to the Tibetan cause, creating a coalition of support for the CTA.
Funding the CTA can also bring economic and social benefits to India. The Tibetan exile community has made significant contributions to the Indian economy, particularly in regions like Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka, where they have established thriving businesses and cultural centres. By supporting the CTA, India can further integrate the Tibetan community into its socio-economic fabric, fostering mutual growth and development.
The discontinuation of US aid to the CTA presents a critical juncture for India to step up and fill the gap. By funding the CTA, India can strengthen its historical and cultural ties with the Tibetan community, assert its geopolitical interests, fulfil its humanitarian responsibilities, and enhance its international leadership. This move would not only benefit the Tibetan exile community but also contribute to India’s own socio-economic and strategic goals. It is time for India to take decisive action and support the CTA in its mission to preserve Tibetan culture and autonomy.
* Nephew of the Dalai Lama, Khedroob Thondup is a geopolitical analyst.