The Chief Representative Office established the Coordinator Office for the Jangthang community in 2016, and the Department of Home at the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) appointed a coordinator to manage this office. However, by mid-2018 the office faced operational challenges and was closed, with staff transferred to the main office in Ladakh. During subsequent visits by CTA delegations and high-ranking officials, it became evident that accommodation for official guests was a significant issue. Consequently, the Department of Home at the CTA authorized the use of the office residence as an official guest room.

Problem & Solution: In response to the need for renovation, the CTA allocated a budget for the restoration of the Jangthang Coordinator Office. The renovation project commenced in May and was completed by July, adhering to the project agreement. The renovation work included:

• Installation of truss and sheet roofing on the residence side to safeguard against heavy rainfall.
• Painting of both the inner and outer walls.
• Plumbing and electrical fittings.

The project was tendered on a lump-sum basis, and a project committee oversaw the completion of all tasks. The renovation was finalized on schedule, and the Hon’ble Sikyong Mr. Penpa Tsering visited Ladakh for the second time during this period. The newly renovated guest house was inaugurated and first used during this visit.

The renovation’s primary objective was to address the critical need for a functional guest room in Jangthang Nyoma, a pivotal location for the Jangthang people. The Nyoma area serves as a central hub for all Jangthang-related activities and meetings. Thus, the renovation was crucial for improving facilities for official visitors and supporting future progress in the Jangthang area. The Department of Home at the CTA has appointed a staff member specifically to address Jangthang-related issues, ensuring that the local population will not face difficulties in accommodating extra rooms for official guests.

Conclusion: The renovation of the Jangthang Coordinator Office has been successfully completed, thanks to the generous support of the Department of Home at the CTA and the dedicated efforts of the Ladakh project committee. The upgraded facility now provides much-needed accommodation for official visitors, reflecting the commitment to improving infrastructure in the Jangthang area.

Mr. Dhondup Tashi Chief Representative Officer Sonamling Tibetan Settlement UT Ladakh