Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Sept. 8: The President of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) Penpa Tsering urged Tibetan institutions and enterprises to uphold legal compliance and strengthen self-reliance at the 18th Annual General Meeting of the Tibetan Chamber of Commerce (TCC), held on Monday at the Tibetan Community Hall in Dharamshala.
The meeting, attended by over 60 members from Delhi, Bir, Dharamshala, and other regions, was presided over by President Penpa Tsering who served as the chief guest. In his address, President Tsering stressed the critical importance of ensuring that societies, associations, and trusts operate in full compliance with the regulations of the host country, particularly the Societies Registration Act and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). He emphasized that adherence to these legal frameworks is essential for the long-term survival and credibility of Tibetan institutions.
“For the Central Tibetan Administration as a whole to endure in the future, not merely the business sector, it is imperative that the laws and regulations of the host country are diligently observed and upheld,” he remarked. He cautioned that lapses occur at times, whether due to inadvertent errors at the official level or the inability of non-governmental and private organizations to strictly adhere to legal requirements, often resulting in the loss of registration licenses. “Even when foreign donors are willing to extend support, aid cannot be accessed without proper registration to receive such contributions. Therefore, registered institutions and business enterprises must ensure strict compliance with the legal provisions of the host country,” he added.
The Tibetan political leader further announced that the CTA, through its Department of Finance, will organize training sessions this year in collaboration with relevant Indian government departments on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). The initiative aims to support both business enterprises and registered trusts and societies, many of which continue to face challenges amid ongoing amendments and revisions to Indian legislation. He noted that within the community, there are approximately 160 to 170 registered organizations, about half of which are eligible under Indian law to receive foreign funding. However, a significant number of institutions still struggle with compliance issues and require thorough review and corrective measures.
President Tsering also stressed the importance of organizational self-reliance and highlighted the vital role of businesses in sustaining the broader Tibetan community. “Non-governmental organizations should not rely solely on the CTA but must strive to build their own self-reliance. It is crucial that business enterprises and organizations ensure their capacity to operate sustainably. Looking ahead, business enterprises must actively contribute to and support Tibetan society,” he stated. He further cautioned that institutions and enterprises must meet their tax obligations without delay in order to prevent more serious complications in the future.
Speaking to the media, Thinley Norbu, President of the Tibetan Chamber of Commerce (TCC), outlined the chamber’s key initiative to establish an Incubation Centre aimed at providing guidance and support for new business ventures and aspiring entrepreneurs. He explained that the project comes in the wake of the closure of the Tibetan Entrepreneur Development program under the CTA’s Department of Finance, and is intended to fill the gap by offering necessary mentorship and facilities to emerging entrepreneurs.
He further outlined the chamber’s broader vision for economic development and business expansion within the community. Noting recent progress, he shared that five new Tibetan entrepreneurs were each awarded ₹3 lakhs through the Tibet Fund, facilitated by the chamber. He added that when Tibetan businesses encounter financial challenges, the chamber also plans to extend support through low-interest loans and other forms of assistance.
