Tibetan refugees residing in Shillong are primarily concentrated in six areas: Jhalupara, Happy Valley, Mawprem, Barapathar, and two other locations. The community’s livelihood is largely dependent on two main sources of income: approximately 70% of the residents engage in selling sweaters, while the remaining 30% operate restaurants. There is approximately 240 residents.

To support the educational needs of Tibetan residents in Shillong, particularly in preserving Tibetan language and culture, we have established a school called Sambhota. Currently, the school has 13 students and 4 teachers, providing a nurturing environment for young Tibetans to learn and thrive.

Shillong is home to a branch of the Tibetan Medical and Astrological (Mantseekang )Institution, which has recently relocated to Guwahati. The Shillong branch, staffed by three dedicated personnel – a doctor, an accountant, and a medicine distributor – takes on the vital responsibility of overseeing the health and wellbeing of Tibetan refugees residing in both Shillong and Dimapur. To fulfill this role, the team conducts regular monthly visits to these settlements.”

The administration of the Gelug monastery Gade Choeling is managed by the Gelug tradition. About 16 monks form the six monasteries of Sera, Drepung and Ganden continue to perform religious rituals, including central local prayers, and offer prayer for peace and the removal of obstacles for the public. Additionally, the Khenrinpoche of Gaden Choeling monastery  here regularly gives public talks on Buddhism on Sundays and special occasion.