Project Title: Toilet renovation and sofa set project

Project Title: Toilet renovation and sofa set project

Project Location: Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement Office

Total Cost of Project: Amount 2, 22,900

Funded by: German Aid to Tibetans through CTRC

Work Period: 6th June to 20th July 2026

Project Description & Progress:

Paonta Cholsum settlement was established in year 1967 at Bhuppur Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh State for 105 families with initial population of 475 Tibetan Refugees. Over the period, the population has increased. Currently, the settlement consists of 125 families with a total population of over 1000 including the residential school and monks.

The settlement is located at the foothills of Himalayas, geographically known as Doon Valley at an elevation of 1000 ft. above sea level. The area is known for its extreme climatic condition with Temperature ranging from 50 C – 460 C and Approximately 90% of settlers earn their livelihood by selling winter sweaters across various states in India. This seasonal trade is the primary source of income, enabling them to support their children’s education and meet daily living expenses.

The existing TSO staff toilet is over 30 years old and has not undergone any renovation to date. Due to its age and deteriorating condition, the walls have become defaced, and dampness has developed, causing the plaster to peel off.

Additionally, the facility has become difficult to use for both staff and visiting guests. The current condition of the toilet walls is unsafe, as they are on the verge of structural failure.

Therefore, immediate renovation is required to ensure safety, usability, and long-term sustainability of the facility.

Completion:

In accordance with the allocated budget, two sofa sets—comprising one three seater and one seven seater—have been procured and placed in the office.

Additionally, the washroom has been fully renovated on contractual basis. The facility is now entirely furnished with new tiles and equipped with a modern wash basin and tap, ensuring improved functionality and aesthetics.

We remain grateful to our donor GAT for their generous contribution of a total amount of INR 2, 22,900 towards these two projects. Their valuable support has played a pivotal role in the successful completion of this initiative.