(14th – 17th April 2026)

Mrs. Heide Meyer, Former President of German Aid to Tibetans (GAT), along with her delegation, visited Dharamsala from 14th to 17th April 2026. Upon arrival at Dharamsala (Gaggal) Airport, the delegation was received by TIPA representatives. Following their arrival at the hotel, the Additional Secretary of the Department of Home, along with dealing staff, also called on the delegation formally welcome them.

Fig; A: (Formal welcome of the delegation at the hotel)

The visit aimed to review GAT- supported projects, attend the inauguration of the TIPA Boy’s Hostel and strengthen ongoing collaboration with the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). On the day of arrival, an architect from Germany, visited the Jampaling Old Age Home with Additional Secretary Mr. Thupten Tsering and dealing staff members. Discussion were held on the proposed renovation project, including infrastructure improvements and enhanced living facilities.

Fig; B: (Architect visit to OPH Jampaling)

 

On 15th April, the delegation including their new members Mrs. Anna Wiencek and Ms. Franziska Schlarmann visited the Department of Home where they met with our Executive Secretary Mr. Palden Dhondup, Additional Secretary Mr. Thupten Tsering and staff members. Productive discussion were held on the various ongoing projects, sponsorships, and future initiatives.

Fig; B: (Welcoming delegation at Department of Home)

Fig; B: (Welcoming delegation at Department of Home)

Fig; B: (Welcoming delegation at Department of Home)

Fig; C: (Meeting with the Department staff)

Fig; C: (Meeting with the Department staff

Later that day, they visited the Tibet Museum, where they were warmly received with a ceremonial welcome and guided tour.

 

Fig; D: (GAT Delegation at Tibet Museum)

In the evening, a farewell dinner was hosted by the Department of Home at Choenor House in honour of Mrs. Meyer and her delegation. As a token of appreciation, the Department presented souvenirs, including publications, museum bags and a ceremonial scarves, acknowledging GAT’s continued support and contributions.

Fig; E: (Farwell dinner hosted to the delegation)

Fig; E: (Farwell dinner hosted to the delegation)

 

Fig; E: (Farwell dinner hosted to the delegation)

On 16th April, an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama was arranged for Ms. Franziska (GAT new Member). Subsequently, they visited the Dalai Lama Library and Archive, where they were given informative tour of the facilities.

The visit was productive and further strengthened the longstanding relationship between GAT and CTA, while providing an opportunity to review projects and explore future areas of cooperation.

Fig; F: (The Delegation visit to Archive)

Fig; F: (The Delegation visit to Archive)

Fig; F: (The Delegation visit to Archive)

 

About German Aid to Tibetans (GAT)

German Aid to Tibetans (GAT) is a non-profit organization founded in 1962, dedicated to supporting Tibetan refugees in India and Nepal. Through the Central Tibetan Administration, GAT provides assistance to orphans, students, monks and the elderly, focussing on education, healthcare, infrastructure and basic needs.

Over the years, GAT has supported numerous projects including the Gyalten School in Darge, Tibet, and continues to assist Tibetan communities through the generous support of over 4,000 sponsors and donors.