Odisha, May 1, 2026: An official tour and field visit were conducted at the Phuntsokling Tibetan Settlement in Odisha from April 26 to May 1, 2026, with the aim of supporting development efforts and preparing for a new community program.
The visit was led by Mrs. Karma Dolma, Joint Secretary of the Department of Home, who oversees the South and Central Tibetan Settlements. The team comprised consultants from Nepal and program staff from The Tibet Fund. The visit reflected ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and strengthen coordination among the residents of the settlement.
Consultants from Nepal, Mr. Kailash and Mr. Bibek, along with Dawa Palmo from The Tibet Fund, conducted a structured field assessment to evaluate the feasibility of the Community-Managed Revolving Fund (CMRF) program, align key stakeholders, and engage with community members and business groups across all five camps. They also interacted with camp leaders and local groups, and delivered a three-day training on savings and credit mobilization in preparation for the program launch.
Simultaneously, Kunchok Dolma from The Tibet Fund conducted a participatory vulnerability assessment under the multi-sector development program across all five camps. A total of 207 households participated in identifying the most vulnerable families. The assessment tool identifies vulnerability based on parameters such as income, debt, livelihood skills, health, education, mental well-being, and social support.
During the visit, Mrs. Karma Dolma inspected both completed and ongoing projects to assess their implementation status and ensure they were being carried out in accordance with approved plans. She also reviewed 17 houses under the Bring Back Compact Community (BBCC) project and interacted with the beneficiaries. Furthermore, she toured all five camps, monasteries, a nunnery, the Old People’s Home, Kailash Hostel, and various other project sites.
The official tour concluded with a meeting with the staff of the Tibetan Settlement Office and the Old People’s Home on May 1, 2026. The team departed from the settlement early on the morning of May 2, 2026.
