Chief Secretary inaugurates newly constructed Changsem Sherab Zangpo Hall at Thiksey Monastery.

Chief Secretary inaugurates newly constructed Changsem Sherab Zangpo Hall at Thiksey Monastery.
Leh, September 29, 2026: Chief Secretary, Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, today inaugurated the newly constructed Changsem Sherab Zangpo Hall, Guest House and Staff Rooms at Thiksey Monastery, in the presence of prominent monks and other distinguished guests. The facility, funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has been constructed by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
The Chief Secretary attended the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest, which also featured the launch of the Sungboom of Kachen Lobzang Zotpa. The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address by the General Secretary of the Thiksey Learning Centre.
Speaking on the occasion, the General Secretary expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest and distinguished guests and highlighted the significance of the newly constructed hall as a shared space for learning, reflection, spiritual practice and community gatherings. He also underlined its role in supporting the preservation and promotion of Ladakh’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
The Thiksey Learning Centre, described as a dream project of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, was established around seven years ago under the chairmanship of His Eminence Padma Shri Kushok Thiksey. The Centre has been conducting a 45-day free winter tuition programme, benefiting more than 2,500 students so far, and continues to contribute towards the educational development of local children.
The Chief Secretary, in his address, recalled that Thiksey Monastery was among the first places he visited after assuming his responsibilities in Ladakh, seeking blessings at the revered monastery. He expressed his appreciation for the spiritual and cultural significance of Thiksey and said that the newly constructed facility would provide a valuable space for monks, students and the local community to undertake educational, cultural and other activities.
Emphasising the importance of preserving Ladakh’s Buddhist heritage and values, the Chief Secretary said that the region’s traditions of compassion, harmony and peaceful coexistence have relevance beyond Ladakh and continue to draw people from across the world. He called upon monasteries and religious institutions to play an important role in transmitting these values to younger generations.
Referring to the challenges faced by youth, including substance abuse, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for collective efforts by families, educational institutions, monasteries and the wider community to guide young people towards positive and constructive pursuits. He said that the teachings of the Buddha, along with Ladakh’s rich cultural traditions, can provide a strong foundation for promoting harmony, responsible citizenship and social well-being.
The Chief Secretary also reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to working for the welfare and development of the people of Ladakh while preserving the region’s unique cultural heritage and traditions.
Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Professor Rajesh Ranjan, in his address, congratulated the Thiksey Monastery, local residents and the management of the Learning Centre on the completion of the project. He appreciated the efforts of all those associated with the construction of the facility and acknowledged the contribution of the monastery and its team towards educational and community-oriented initiatives, particularly the winter tuition programme.
The occasion was attended by Professor Rajesh Ranjan, Vice Chancellor, Central Institute of Buddhist Studies; former Member of Parliament Thupstan Tsewang; President, Ladakh Gonpa Association, Venerable Dorjey Stanzin; former Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson; officials and staff of CPWD associated with the project; monks, local residents, students of the CIBS branch and Gonpa School, and other distinguished guests..
During the programme, monks and distinguished guests formally launched the Sungboom of Kachen Lobzang Zotpa. The Chief Secretary also felicitated Professor Rajesh Ranjan, the Chief Engineer of CPWD and officials and staff associated with the successful completion of the project.

The programme concluded with traditional cultural performances presented by local villagers and students, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.