The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) based in Dharamsala, northern India held a special prayer ceremony at the main temple of Tsuglagkhang to express its deep shock and sadness at the horrific devastation to life and property caused by the massive 7.9 magnitude earthquake that shook Nepal, and the northern areas of India and Tibet two days ago on April 25.
The Dalai Lama sent a condolence letter to the Prime Minister of Nepal, Sushil Koirala, to express his solidarity with the people affected by the natural calamity. In the letter, the Dalai Lama said, “The people of Nepal and Tibetans have been neighbours throughout history and many Tibetan refugees live in Nepal. I offer my condolences to you and to those who have lost members of their families, friends and their homes in this tragedy."
The Dalai Lama also offered financial assistance to the government of Nepal. "As a token of solidarity with the people of Nepal, I have asked the Dalai Lama Trust to make a donation towards rescue and relief efforts.” he added.
Lobsang Sangay, head of the Tibetan Administration in Exile announced NPR 20 Lakh for Nepal Relief fund from the Kashag, CTA during the prayer session. He added that the natural disaster has also taken lives of Tibetan inside as well as two exile Tibetans as per the report received as of date.
The impact of the destructive earthquake had spread to many areas of Tibet that share borders with Nepal such as the counties of Kyidrong, Dingri, Dromo, Lhatse, and Nyalam. Although the CTA and individuals were unable to reach the far flung villages near Tibet border where there are few Tibetan refugee settlements, residents of Dharamsala shared their personal stories in reaching to relatives in the earthquake hit areas of Nepal and Tibet.
The Tibetan Youth Congress based in Dharamsala announced relief efforts to reach the ground and serve the people who have been affected by this natural disaster. RTYC and RTWA in Dharamsala held a candle light vigil on Sunday to show their solidarity with the people of Nepal.