Men-Tsee-Khang 1

48th Anniversary Day of Men-Tsee-Khang & College Pg : 4Seminar and Course Pg : 5Medical tour Pg : 7New branch clinics Pg : 8HIV awareness programme Pg : 8Happenings 2008& 2009 Pg : 9Obituary Pg : 12Men-Tsee-Khang Publications Pg : 16

MEN-TSEE-KHANGN e w s l e t t e r

Overview Head Quarter, Dharamsala

Vol. XV December -2009

Men-Tsee-Khang 2

Men-Tsee-Khang export has a wide range of productsavailable for wholesale and retail purchase. Publicationsin English and Tibetan, almanacs, posters, cards andherbal health products are currently available and canbe shipped domestically and internationally. Fundsreceived from product sales support the educational andmedical services of Men-Tsee-Khang.

For product information and rates contact:MEN-TSEE-KHANG EXPORTS

Head Office: 13 Jaipur EstateNizamuddin East

New Delhi-13, INDIAE-mail: mtkexports@vsnl.net

Phone: 0091-11-26214897 / 26436823Fax: 0091-11-26211738

M E N - T S E E - K H A N G E X P O R T S

H O W T O B E C O M E A M E M B E R

H O W T O H E L P A T M A I C H I L D

Sponsorship Secretary (NL)M E N - T S E E - K H A N G

Gangchen KyishongDharamsala - 176215

District Kangra, H.P. INDIATel: 0091-1892-223113/222618

Fax: 0091-1892-224116E-mail: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Our children are our future. To involve children in thecommunity of TMAI, housing, child care and otherresources are provided to staff and their families.To ensure that the children of staff receive adequatemedicine, food, clothing and school supplies, we seekindividuals willing to sponsor a child for $20.00 (US)per month. We also welcome donations of clothes,books, toys and supplies. In exchange for yourkindness, you may begin a direct correspondencewith the child you sponsor and start a friendship tolast a lifetime.

T o s p o n s o r a c h i l d , c o n t a c t :Sponsorship Secretary (NL)

M E N - T S E E - K H A N G

H O W T O B E C O M E A M E M B E R

H O W T O H E L P A T M A I C H I L D

If you would like to support the healing community ofMen-Tsee-Khang, by becoming a member, please contact:

This is the official Newsletter ofMen-Tsee-Khang (TibetanMedical & Astrological Institute ofH.H. the Dalai Lama). GangchenKyishong, Dharamsala—176215,INDIA. It is published anddistributed free of cost. However,we request donations to coverexpenses. To make donations,please contact Mail ingCo-ordinator, Men-Tsee-Khang,Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala- 176215. INDIA.Editor

EditorKalsang Dechen

Assistant editorMr. Tseten Dorjee

Mailing co-ordinatorMrs. Dolma Tsering

Tel: 0091-1892-223113/223222

307068/307069

Fax: 0091-1892-224116

E-mail:

tmai@men-tsee-khang.orgtmai@vsnl.com

www.men-tsee-khang.org

C A U T I O N

1. Counterfeited Rinchen Rilbu (Precious Pills) are beingsold by some unscrupulous people. In the public interest,we are sticking hologram of our logo on our packagingto distinguish our Rinchen Rilbu from the pretenders. Ifviewed in adequate light, our 3-D hologram depicts ourregistered logo with the word ‘Men-Tsee-Khang’inscribed in Tibetan & English. So, look for the shinyand silvery sticker on our Rinchen Rilbu.

2. The increased production of medicine is still farshort of our requirements for our nearly 40 clinics.Barring the Over-the-counter medicines, namely: Men-Chik, Men-Nee and Men-Soom, we do not have thecapacity to sell our medicines to Private Tibetan doctors.Some doctors dispense privately manufacturedmedicines during their personal tours and misrepresentthat they obtained their medicines fromMen-Tsee-Khang. We are not responsible for suchacts.

3. Some private doctors have travelled abroad and toBodhgaya (India) falsely claiming that they representMen-Tsee-Khang. The public must be cautious aboutthe recurrences of such acts.

Men-Tsee-Khang 3

We welcome all the readers and supporters of MTK. We also take this opportunity on

behalf of the Institute to apologize to our readers, supporters and well-wishers for

not being able to bring out the newsletter since March 2007 due to unavoidable

circumstances. In each and every organization there is a phase in which shortcomings over-ride the

administration, even in times of progress and advancement that are inevitable.

Time flies and moves without turning back, and we are unable to stop it. It is like a shooting star that

keeps its pace ahead, and here we are remembering the past 48 years as if it was yesteryear. It also

has been 50 years in exile since Tibet was invaded by China. Tibetan people fled to India in 1959.

Had it not been for the generous help of the Government of India and its people, the Tibetan culture

and identity would be at greater risk of decline. Exile is a distance away from home, but we thank the

people and government of India for making us feel at home all these years and in helping us

preserve, promote and revive our traditional cultures.

If we glance back and peek into the hardships and challenges faced by the physicians, astrologers

and staff members before us since the MTK’s inception in 1961, then we will be able to appreciate

the incredible contributions and sacrifice they have made. It is because of the blessings and insight

of His Holiness, as well as the MTK members’ determination and faith in preserving the Tibetan

traditional culture under precarious conditions, that we are enjoying the fruit of their labor. Hence,

we should remember the struggle and sacrifice that they have gone through, at the beginning with

limited resources and meager means.

Henceforth, we assure all that there will be regular flow of news from MTK. Your advice, suggestions

and constructive criticisms are always welcome and they will help us improve and progress in our

endeavor.

Finally, would like to thank the Director, Deputy Director and Registrar, ex-advisor of the Astrology

Department and all the head of Departments for their cooperation. Also would like to thank Tenzin

Jigme for his effort in compiling together the news material, which was a helpful resource and Nina,

US (journalist for National Geographic) for spending her time to go through the contents giving

advice and suggestions where ever necessary.

ED

ITO

RIA

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ANNIVERSARY DAY

Men-Tsee-Khang (MTK) celebratedits 48th founding anniversary on 23March 2009. The chief guest on theoccasion was Mr. Sonam ChoephelShosur, the officiating secretary ofthe Dept. of Health, CTA. Thecelebration of the foundinganniversary commenced with the

traditional ceremony. The director ofthe institute, Dr. Dawa, presented theintroduction, annual report andbackground history of MTK.

Dr. Dawa said, “If we take a glimpseback at the 48 years, it’s sewn withthe reminiscence of thedetermination, effort and diligence ofDr. Yeshi Dhonden (former physicianto His Holiness) and the late Mr.Dukhorwa Lodoe Gyatso,astrologer.” At the initial stage MTKstarted with just a doctor and anastrologer. They took responsibilityfor imparting the unique Tibetantraditional knowledge of healing andastrology to eight students in thebeginning. Undaunted by thedifficulties under precariousconditions, they moved on in makingfuture Tibetan doctors andastrologers.

The establishment and success ofthe institute was possible with theblessings, visionary insight andguidance of His Holiness the DalaiLama to preserve Tibetan culture inexile. Gradually, with the arrival ofHis Holiness, three personalphysicians and doctors from Tibet,the organization developed into a fullfledged institution. The cooperation

and determination of all thephysicians, astrologers, andadministrative staff has contributedto the success and development ofthe institute into an established andself-sufficient organization in Tibetansociety.

The main objective and vision of HisHoliness and the institute is topreserve, promote and revive theancient and unique Tibetantraditional system of healing andastrological science in order tobenefit countless suffering beings inthis universe. In order to do that,the institute is doing research onspecialization in various fields inrelevance to modern science. Since1961 to 2008, the institute hassuccessfully completed 14 batchesof medical doctors and seven batchesof astrologers. At present, there are20 and 29 medical students in 15th

and 16th batches respectively, as wellas six students in the eighth batch ofastrology. This means that a total of55 students are pursuing their higherstudies in medicine and astrology atMTK College. The institute providesfree medicine to senior citizens, thepoor, destitute, employees of CTA(Central Tibetan Administration) andto new arrivals from Tibet. It alsoprovides concession to students,nuns and monks.

The chief guest, Mr. SonamChoephel Shosur, presided over thelaunch of MTK Director, Dr. Dawa’snew book titled A Clear Mirror ofTibetan Medicinal Plants (Bok-kyi-sorig smen-ri selwey melong). Mr.Shosur distributed honorary prizesto staff members who served theinstitute for 20 years. He alsoawarded promotional certificates toMenrampa Chungwa, MenrampaDringwa doctors and TsirampaDringwa astrologers and distributedprizes to I, II and III position holdersof XIV batch of medical and VII batchof astrology students. The functionconcluded with a thank you speechby Mr. Tsering Phuntsok, the registrarof MTK.

COLLEGE FOUNDINGANNIVERSARY

The Tibetan Medical andAstrological College celebrated its48th anniversary on 2 June 2009. TheMedical College was established in1961 under the guidance of HisHoliness the Dalai Lama. Dr. NamgyalTsering, the deputy director of MTKwas the chief guest of the function.The other dignitaries present wereDr. Thokmey, representative of theCentral Council of Tibetan Medicine,Registrar, Mr. Tsering Phuntsok ofMTK, Head of departments andstudents.

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Dr. Tenpa Choephel, principal of theTibetan Medical and AstrologicalCollege, presented the annual reportand brief background of the college.The deputy director of MTKaddressed the gathering anddistributed prizes to the winners ofthe Tibetan essay and GangriLangtso magazine (English andTibetan) competitions. He alsooffered a thank you scarf to all theeditorial members.

CLINICAL RESEARCHDEPARTMENT

The Research Department set up in1980, originally comprised of all itsresearch fields. In 1994, the Research& Development Department wasrenamed as the Clinical ResearchDepartment. The specializeddepartments were created in order tocarry on the work more efficiently andsuccessfully.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama hasemphasized the importance of jointresearch between modern andtraditional Tibetan medicine onnumerous occasions. The clinicalresearch department has taken initialsteps and has successfullyconducted clinical research withscientific methods on disorders likehypertension (blood pressure),arthritis, Diabetes, cancer and chronicHepatitis-B.

An extensive research on Toxicologyon the use of purified mercury wasundertaken in collaboration withNatural medicine Research Center,Hadassah, Israel; Delek Hospital,Dharamsala, India; and theDepartment of Chemistry, Universityof Liverpool, UK. The result of thecollaboration was remarkable. Thefacts were thereafter published inpopular international journal Human& Experimental Toxicology,(2006)

25: 405-412: “Mercury intraditional Tibetan medicine -panacea or problem, Dr. SarahSallon; and Men-Tsee-Khangjournal sMan-rTsis journal Vol. IV,issue 1, August 2007.

Besides that, in order to sustainhealth, the first volume of the DietaryBook has been published in Tibetanand English. The department hasbeen able to benefit and educate thecommon masses through the use ofdifferent media platforms like radioand local newspapers in educatingabout the health and diseases in ourcommunities. The department hasrecords of many patients that havebeen treated and benefited byTibetan medicine from the variousbranch clinics.

Ongoing projects

1. A six month clinical trial oftraditional Tibetan medicines for thetreatment of newly diagnosed mildto moderate essential hypertensionat Dekyling branch clinic.2. Evaluation and safety of Tsothel(detoxified mercury) in traditionalTibetan medicine in collaborationwith the Louis L Borick, NaturalMedicine Research Center,Hadassah Hospital, Israel. (Urinaryand serum mercury level test)3. Statistical analysis of clinical trialof Tibetan medicine for the treatmentof Hepatitis B in Bylakuppe, 2009.4. Compilation of the results is underprocess for the analysis ofHypertension survey conducted invarious regions of the Tibetancommunity in the year 2007.

Upcoming projects

The department is working on theproposal and questionnaire toconduct research in the year 2010and 2011 on the following diseases:

HIV/AIDS, cancer, asthma, Diabetesand gastric ulcer.

SEMINAR AND COURSE

VARANASI

Dr. Pema Dorjee, advisor (SorigLiterary Department, ClinicalResearch Department and MateriaMedica Department), attended a twoday seminar, starting 22 July 2009on “Workshop on Interdisciplinarymedical system”. It was organizedby the Central University of TibetanStudies (CUTS), Varanasi. Dr. KapilaVatsyayanji, the chief guest,inaugurated the seminar throughthe traditional way of lighting butterlamps. Then the ceremony startedwith the recitation of themangalacharan prayers in Sanskritby the students of the university.Dr. Kapila’s opening speechwelcomed all the participants of theseminar and spoke on the diverseaspects of Traditional medicine ofIndia, Tibet and China. Dr. PascalVeedal and Dr. Vaneesa from Francegave a talk on ear acupuncture andTai Chi Chuan. Many IndianAyurvedic scholars from Kerala,Delhi and Benaras attended theseminar. They spoke on differenttopics related to the principles ofcuratives and diagnoses in theAyurvedic tradition and modernmedicine. On 23 July, Dr. PemaDorjee presented a talk on curativemeasures in Tibetan medicine, aswell as an in-depth discussion onTibetan medicine. He gaveconsultation to the participants, andin the evening he addressed themedical students of the CentralUniversity of Tibetan Studies on thehistory, as well as the future visionof Tibetan medicine.

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THIMPU, BHUTAN

Dr. Dawa, the director of MTK, andDr. Pema Dorjee, advisor (SorigLiterary Department, ClinicalResearch Department and MateriaMedica Department) attended a fiveday seminar of the VII InternationalCongress on Traditional AsianMedicine (IASTAM) from 7-11September 2009 at Thimpu, Bhutan.The Honorable Chief Guest of theseminar was His Excellency LyonpoKhandu Wangchuk, Minister ofEconomic Affairs and Chairman ofthe University Council, RoyalUniversity of Bhutan. Dr. GadoTshering, secretary of the Ministryof Health, Mr. Volker Scheid,president of IASTAM, welcomed allthe participants. The honorable chiefguest gave the inaugural address.This is the first ever seminar ontraditional medicine in the history ofBhutan, and the governmentextended its full support for thearrangement of the conference.Participants from 30 differentcountries - including India, Nepal,China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, etcattended the seminar. There wereapproximately 240 scientists,lawyers, environmentalists, doctors,and medical students from Bhutan.The participants were divided intofour groups and they had two or threesessions a day. The seminar alsoincluded roundtable paneldiscussions with all participants.

During the second session on 7September, the topic of the paneldiscussion was “Cultivating theWilds’. Dr. Dawa presented theperspectives from the tradition ofTibetan medicine on nature,identification and potencies onorganic materia medica, as well astheir protection and increasedproduction.

During the first session on 10September, the panel discussion was“Diagnoses, Treatment and thePractitioner’s Experience”. Dr. PemaDorjee spoke about diagnoses andtreatments in traditional Tibetanmedicine. The panel committeerequested to exchange views amongthe doctors, and so on 9 Septemberthe doctors met to share views,experiences and research studiescarried out on some of the mostcommon raw materials according tothe Tibetan medical system.

Dr. Dawa met doctors from Tibet(Tso ngon, Yunan, Shigatse, Lhasa)and discussed in length tostrengthen, preserve and promoteancient Tibetan traditions within themedical system. He also emphasizedthe need for cooperation amongthem to revive and preserve themedical system through exchange ofeducation and resources. Thedoctors from Tibet and MTK willdevelop new relations to promoteeducation, resources, herbalmedicines and publishing textbooks. On 12 September, Dr. Dawa

visited a hospital, pharmaceuticalcompany and the Nangpa medicineschool in Bhutan, meeting the headof the departments. In the seminar,

85 percent of the attending delegatesdiscussed Tibetan medicinespecifically and showed interest inthe topic presented.

AUSTRIA

Astrologer, Mrs. Tsering Chozomtoured Austria from 26 March to 12July 2009. On 30 March, she gavean introductory lecture on Tibetanastrology at Vienna to 30 interestedpeople. The next day she travelledto Huttenburg, Carinthia province.There she gave introductory courseon Tibetan astrology for three classesfrom 17 April-21 June, 2009 at the“International Center for HigherTibetan Studies”. There were totalof 20 students who joined theclasses. She lectured 10 sessionsfor 15.30 hours and two studentsparticipated in the examination. Thestudents were from Germany andAustria.

Dr. Tsultrim Kalsang (MMD)visited Huttenburg, Carinthiaprovince to give preliminary course

on traditional Tibetan medicine at theInternational Center for HigherTibetan Studies, Austria from 1-30March 2009. He lectured on the

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topics - fundamental of Tibetanmedicine, the three humors (Nyes-pa gSum), there poisons (DuggSum), the theory of cosmology-physical elements and on thirtydifferent types of topics withinTibetan medicine, including dietaryregiment, lifestyle or behaviormanagement. He taught fourconsecutive classes, lectured 12sessions for 18 hours and all thestudents appeared in the examination.

MEDICAL TOUR

RUSSIA

Dr. Dawa, the director of the institute,visited Moscow from 13-22 June2009, invited by Dr. Svetlana ofTibetan Healing Centre, Moscow. Hegave a talk on basic fundamentals ofTibetan medicine explaining thecause of diseases and its cure relatedto the five elements, the body andmind. While there, he met with localofficials, college professors and stafffrom the Healing Center. On 15 Junehe visited six different clinics inMoscow. The director of the TibetanHealing Center mentioned that manypeople benefited from Tibetanmedicine. He said it was becomingpopular and there was a growinginterest in the traditional way ofhealing among the people in Russia.The Healing Center and MTK arelooking into new perspectives inorder to share, help and serve thehealth of the people of Russia. Thedirector of MTK gave anintroduction of Tibetan medicine toaround 40 doctors, who thereafterwere inspired to learn more. As theTibetan Healing Centre wasestablished 20 years ago, Dr. Dawaapplauded the faculty and staff fortheir determination in bringing thecenter to its present position. Healso said that he appreciated all the

assistance and cooperation receivedfrom the Tibet Clinic, Moscow.

Dr. Tenzin Woser (Kolkata branchclinic) visited Moscow on theinvitation from the Tibetan HealingCenter, for four months from August2008. He gave consultation to localpatients. The normal diet of thepeople consists mainly of meat,alcohol, raw vegetables and oilyfoods and hence most of theproblems related were stomachdisorders, hypertension, breastcancer, liver and gynecologicalproblems.

NEPAL

Dr. Tsewang Tamdin visited Nepalfor the treatment of Kyabje TrulshikRinpoche from 20 February-5March2009. He visited the Jampalingbranch clinic and an old age homeand gave consultation to 45 patients.He also gave a public talk on dietaryhabits to the local Tibetans in Nepaland gave consultations to 480patients. The local Tibetansrequested the need of his visit in thefuture. He also visited Chatrepatiand Chabahil branch clinics andconsulted 103 and 176 patientsrespectively.

Dr. Tenzin Lhadon visited ThuptenChoeling Monastery in Nepal to giveconsultation and treatment toKyabje Trulhshik Rinpoche from 12May-5 June 2009. Besides that, shealso visited the branch clinic atChabahil and gave medicalconsultation to 139 patients, as wellas dietary advice to them.

GUJARAT

Dr. Pema Dorjee visited Rajkot,Jamnagar and Ahmedabad from 27May-14 June 2009 to hold medical

camp. During the camp he gaveconsultation to serious cancer andheart patients. He gave an interviewto the local press, Akila. The visitwas given wide publicity due to thepress release of the event in localnewspapers. He also gave medicalconsultation to media persons inSalchok School at Rajkot. Dr. PemaDorjee, along with Dr. Penpa and Dr.Samdup from Jamnagar branch clinicgave medical consultation to 469patients in Rajkot. They discussedthe concept of the Tibetan medicine,and its practice with the panel oflocal doctors, professionals andauthorities.

The Ramcho Dassji Maharaja Mandirorganized the medical camp atJamnagar from 5-7 June 2009. Thedoctors gave medical consultation to277 patients. On 8-9 June, Dr. PemaDorjee gave a speech on Tibetanmedicine to the department headsand faculty members of the P.GDepartment, Laboratory Departmentand Ph.D. scholars at GujaratAyurved University, Jamnagar. On11 June he visited the branch medicalclinic and gave consultation to thepatients.

TABO

Dr. Tsewang Tamdin, advisor(College, Pharmacy and HerbalProduct Research Department)visited Tabo from 20-29 July 2009. Hegave medical consultation to 175patients in Spiti and 76 patients inTabo monastery. Dr. Tamdin visitedGu, 20 km away from Tabo on 22 Julyto give consultation to a seriouspatient, Mr. Tsering Palden and alsogave consultation to 52 patients. On27 July, he visited the Manali branchclinic and gave consultations toaround 290 patients.

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Men-Tsee-Khang 8

BRAZIL

Dr. Namgyal Tsering, the deputydirector vistied Brazil, Argentina andUruguay from 7-21 March 2009 withthe kind co-ordination of Mr.Tsewang Phuntsok, Liaison officer,Office of Tibet, Latin America. InBrazil the doctor discussed the futureexchange program between MTKand the University of Sau Paulo. Hespoke on the topic “Pharmacologyin Tibetan medicine” at theuniversity to the graduate and PGstudents. In Uruguay he gave publictalks and lecture on “Dietary LifeStyle” according to traditionalTibetan medicine and gaveconsultation to the patients. InArgentina, he was invited to acardiology hospital where he gave atalk on “Introduction on Tibetanmedicine” to the doctors and nurses.Discussion and question answersession was also held. He visitedthe Kagyu center there, gave apublic talk on Dietary Life Style andconsultation to the patients.

OPENING OF NEWBRANCH CLINICS

GUJARAT

Mr. Tsering Dorjee, head of theBranch Department visitedJamnagar, to inaugurate the newbranch clinic of MTK. The clinicwas inaugurated on 17 July 2008 andwas sponsored by Mr. Deepak Bhai.The branch clinic sponsor and hissupporters (Mr. Dilip Mumtora Bhai,Mr. Tusher Bhai, Mr. Nelesh Bhai,Mr. Haresh Pujara Bhai, Mr. SailashBhai, Mr. Bhasker Bhai) invited Mr.Shri Yogeshwara Guru Maharaja asthe chief guest of honor, whosepresence on the opening functionbrought a sense of inspiration andjoy. Mr. Tsering Dorjee gave a

speech on the background historyof MTK. He expressed deepgratitude to the sponsor, thesupporters and local people for theirtireless effort in realizing the visionof setting up a clinic in order to helppatients who are in need of a holisticapproach.

ANDHRA PRADESH

Mr. Tsering Dorjee, head of BranchDepartment, visited Hyderabad toinaugurate a new branch clinic ofMTK. On 3 May 2009 the clinic wasopened and the chief guest of theinaugural function was Ven.Dharmakeerti. Dr. Dorji Rapten,CMO of Bangalore branch clinic,was also present at the inaugurationand consulted to the patients. Thesame day, Mr. Purshotam Roa,former Member of Parliament andState Minister visited the new branchclinic.

HIMACHAL PRADESH

For the past couple of years, Ven.Geshe Sonam Wangdu of Tabomonastery and the local residents

have been requesting MTK to setup a branch clinic in Tabo for thebenefit of the people living there.The request was realized on 3 July2009. The chief guest of theinaugural ceremony Ven. Geshe la,said, “Traditional Tibetan system ofhealing is one of the unique practicesand treatment of this generation andthe people here strongly believe inthe efficacy of the Tibetanmedicine.” Mr. Tsering Drojee, headof branch department attended thefunction with other importantdignitaries.

HIV AWARENESSPROGRAMME

Mrs.Kalsang Lhamo, undersecretary, Health Department, CTA,Dharamsala and Dr. Pema Dorjee,MTK toured Bhandara, Orissa andMainpat Tibetan settlements from 5-11 August 2009, organized by theDepartment of Health on HIVawareness. Mrs. Kalsang Lhamospoke on a wide range of topics

relatedto thesubjectf r o mnature,conditions,symptomsa n dpreventivemeasures.D r .P e m aDor jeebr iefedon aw i d erange ofsubjectsdealing

with contagious diseases and itspreventive measures from theviewpoint of the Tibetan medical

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Men-Tsee-Khang 9

system. He also briefed onhypertension, ulcer, Hepatitis B andalcohol-related diseases and itsmeasures. He consulted 481patients in Bhandara, Mainpat andOrissa. The doctors of the respectivebranch clinics accompanied himduring the tour.

P H A R M A C YDEPARTMENT

The Pharmacy Department as aspecialized unit is one of theimportant departments of MTK, inmanufacturing herbalmedicine. Over the years, thedepartment has strived tosucceed and achieve the goalof standardizing itsmanufacturing unit. At theinitial stage, the manufacturingprocess (cleaning, drying,processing, etc) was donewith manual labor butgradually, with theadvancement of technology,things improved. Foodgradable units are used for thepackaging of medicine. Thedepartment follows the GMP(good manufacturingpractices) standard in order tomove with changing times.With the introduction of thenew packaging system, a widerange of products in the formof pills and granules can bemanufactured and to improvethe shelf life of the medicine.

MATERIA MEDICADEPARTMENT

The Materia Medica Department asa specialized unit was started in 1994as an expansion of the Research &Development Department foundedin 1980. The staff of the department

travels to India and Nepal every yearfor medicinal research field trip. Ateam of four members headed by Dr.Tsering Norbu, head of MateriaMedica Department, Dr. TsetanMingur, Dr. Thinley Chophel, Dr.Zompa and Dr.Ven. Lobsang Soepa(Pharmaceutical Department) wentto Zumsum in Mustang, Nepal on 7-21 August 2009. They discussed themedicinal resources in the Shapruarea with Dr. Dekyi, chief medicalofficer, Chabahil branch and Mr.Tsewang Norbu, familiar with localmedicinal plants. They wereinformed that the area was restricted

due to political turmoil andenvironmental protection.

HAPPENINGS 2008

February 18-22 Dr. Dawa Dolma,former head of Clinical ResearchDepartment and team toured toJamnagar, Rajkot and Ahmedabad.

They gave consultation to 100patients.

March 1-12 Dr. Tsering Norbu, headof Materia Medica Departmentvisited Moscow and gaveconsultation to 72 patients. Hespoke on “Introduction and efficacyof Tibetan medicine” to the massagetherapist gathered during the talk.

March 24-28 The Central Councilof Tibetan medicine (CCTM) andMen-Tsee-Khang (MTK) organizeda joint “National Conference cumworkshop on Tibetan medicine”.

Doctors from MTK, India, Nepal,Bhutan registered under CCTMparticipated in the workshop.

April 1 Dr. Lobsang Yeshi, formerdoctor-in-charge of Meerut branchclinic attended to the participants ofpeace march organized by theTibetan NGO’s from Dharamsala toDelhi. He used external therapy, gavepulse diagnoses and medicine to the

December 2009 News

9TH BATCH - PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF MENRAMPA CHUNGWA 2008

Men-Tsee-Khang 10

participants. MTK provided freedistribution of medicine to the peacemarchers.

April 4 The Central Council ofTibetan Medicine (CCTM)recognized Tibetan Medical andAstrology College, Men-Tsee-Khang, as one of the mostprestigious MenpaKachupa colleges inexile. The CCTMrewarded a certificate ofrecognition to thecollege, therebyinaugurating it as anofficial MenpaKachupa degreecollege. The certificatewas presented to Dr.Tsewang Tamdin,principal of TibetanMedical andAstrological College,by Mr. Topgyal,additional secretary,Dept. of Health, CTA.The CCTM authorizedTibetan Medical andAstrological Collegeto conduct examination and awardMenrampa Chungwa degree to alldoctors for a period of three years.

April 6-30 Dr. Tenzin Lhadon,lecturer of Tibetan Medical &Astrological College, accompaniedHis Holiness during his visit to theUSA. Besides, she also gaveconsultation to the patients.

April 26-28 Dr. Yeshi Dorji, CMO,Mcleod Ganj branch clinic,Dharamsala and team visitedAmritsar and Punjab to conductTibetan medical camp. They gaveconsultation to 49 patients.

May 5-July 12 On the invitation ofthe Central University of TibetanStudies, Sarnath, Astrologer and

Advisor, Mr. Lobsang Norbu,Astrological Department, MTKvisited Varanasi as an invigilatorduring the astrology examination.

August 4-27 Dr. Jigme Gendun(Pharmaceutical Department), Dr.Khenrab Gyatso and Dr. Wangdu,(Lecturer of Tibetan Medical and

Astrology College) staff membersand 15th batch of medical studentsvisited Manali, Marhi, Latso andRohtang for practical knowledge ofidentification, uses, remedies andnature of medicinal plants in theareas. There were total of 69members.

September 5-6 Dr. Pema Dorjee,former head of Sorig LiteraryResearch Department visitedAssociacao Palas Athena andUniversidade Federal de Sao Paulo,Brazil to attend the “1st InternationalSymposium on Traditional Medicine& Contemplative Practices”. Hepresented a talk on, “Brief overviewof Tibetan medicine” and“Prevention and Treatment of

chronic disease in Tibetanmedicine”.

October 24-26 The 30th Generalmeeting of Ayurveda Society washeld in Osaka, Japan. Dr. ThokmeyPaljor (Translation Department)attended the conference from MTKand spoke on “Management of

Sterility in Tibetanmedicine”.

October 28-November 17 Dr.Dawa, director, MTKvisited theInternational Centerfor Higher TibetanStudies, Huttenburg,Austr ia for theopening ceremony. Hegave a talk on “How torelease and overcomeStress/Tension inTibetan medicine”. Dr.Tore Persson, (Dept. ofAnaes theosiol ogy,Pain and intensive careK 2, KavolinskaUniversity Hospital,

Stockholm, Sweden) joined on 6November and met Dr. Dawa todiscuss on scientific projects andcooperation in future.

November 4-December 2 The 5thand 6th batch of MenrampaChungwa (doctors) attended thepromotional preparatory course ofMenrampa Dringwa and appeared inthe examination.

December 2 Mr. Kunga Dhondupastrologer visited CUTS, Varanasi fora month long translation program.He and Tensang, astrologer fromSherabling monastery translatedTibetan astronomy into English andmodern astronomy into Tibetan.

December 5-26 The 3rd batch ofTsirampa Chungwa (astrologers)

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MEDICAL STUDENTS FIELD TRIP

Men-Tsee-Khang 11

attended the Tsirampa Dringwapromotional preparatory course andcompleted the examination.

December 16-January 1 The 9thbatch of Menpa Kachupa doctorsattended the promotionalpreparatory course of MenrampaChungwa degree and completed theexamination.

HAPPENINGS 2009

January 1-February 17 Dr. PemaDorjee, advisor (Sorig LiteraryDepartment, Clinical ResearchDepartment and Materia MedicaDepartment) visited north east Indiaand gave public address explainingthe importance and significance on“Mother and Child Healthcare”. Healso addressed the importance ofpublic awareness and prevention ofHIV/AIDS.

January 6-19 Dr. Namgyal Tsering,deputy director accompanied HisHoliness to Varanasi during theteachings. Besides, he providedhealth consultation to the patients.

February 6-9 Thirteen astrologersvisited Central University of TibetanStudies (CUTS) Varanasi to attend a“Workshop on ModernAstronomy”.

April 2-8 The senior astrologersgave an in-depth course to the 7thbatch astrology students aftercompleting their internship.

April 3-7 The senior doctors gavean intensive workshop to the 14thbatch of medical students aftercompleting their internship.

May 23-31 Mr. Kunga Dhondup,astrologer, attended the 50 years inExile occasion at New Delhi todisplay an exhibition on Tibetanastrology.

May 23-31 Dr. Tenzin Deche, CMONizamuddin branch clinic and teamattended the 50 years in exileoccasion at new Delhi. They gavemedical consultation, lectures onhealth and displayed exhibition onTibetan medicine.

July 8-31 Dr. Dawa, the directoraccompanied His Holiness duringhis teachings in Wisconsin, USAand gave consultation to 62 patients.

August 8-22 Astrologers SonamPalmo, Kunga Dhondup, TenzinJinpa and Tsewang Dorjee attendeda workshop on astrology “Calculuswithout limits” organized by CUTS,Varanasi, Dept. of Astrology.

November 3 -December 5 The 5thbatch astrologers attended onemonth in-depth preparatory studyfor the Tsirampa Chungwapromotional course and completedthe examination as well.

November 3-December 5 The 10thbatch Kachupa doctors and nonMTK doctors (Chagpori Institute,Darjeeling; Central Institute of

Buddhist Studies, Ladakh; ex MTK)appeared for the MenrampaChungwa promotional preparatorycourse and completed theexamination. There were 24 doctorswho participated in the course.

WORKSHOPS 2008

April 14-21 A course on Tibetanmedicine was organized at MTK forseven days and 34 participantsattended the course. The group wasfrom Minnesota University, USA.

May 26-June 2 A course wasorganized on Tibetan medicine atMTK, Dharamsala to the group fromMinnesota University, USA for sixdays. There were 18 participantswho joined the course.

June 16-July 11 MTK provided 26days special practical training forthree doctors : Dr. Yeshi Dorjee, Dr.Jamyang Lodoe and Dr. YeshiGyeltshen of the governmenthospital, Bhutan in Dharamsala.The training was on compoundingof medicine incorporation with

December 2009

MINNESOTA, USA GROUP

News

Men-Tsee-Khang 12

identification of medicinalsubstances and the preparation ofcalcinated powder medicine.

WORKSHOPS 2009

May 24-30 A seven days course wasorganized by MTK on Tibetanmedicine to the group fromMinnesota University, USA and 18participants joined the course.

OBITUARY

Dr. Lhawang : Dr. Lhawang passedaway on 17 September 2008, after aprolong illness. He was 76. The lossof such an eminent and outstandingphysician is a great misfortune, toMen-Tsee-Khang and thecommunity as a whole. Dr. Lhawangwas born in 1932 in Lhasa, Tibet. Hewas one of the eight studentsenrolled in the first batch of medicalcourse in 1961. While as a student,he had to work, gathering medicinalplants and making medicines. Hecompleted his final course inmedicine in 1967. From 1971 to 1993,

he served as the residential doctorin various Tibetan settlements inIndia - Kalimpong, Mundgod,Bylakuppe, Kollegal includingNepal. Since 1994, he had beenserving as the Head of the HerbalProduct Research Department, inDharamsala. He served since itsinception, in the service of MTK invarious fields as a doctor, aresearcher and an advisor. Thechallenges and sacrifices that hecontributed will ever be rememberedand cherished.

Mr. Dunchu Sonam : Men-Tsee-Khang deeply regrets the passingaway of Mr. Dunchu Sonam Dorjee,astrologer on 10 April 2008, aftersuccumbing to chronic illness. Hewas 38. He worked as an astrologerin the astrology department andlecturer in Tibetan Medical andAstrology College, Dharamsalafrom January, 1999.

Mr. Choethar : Mr. Choetharpassed away at the age of 68 on 1June 2008, in Nepal. He joined MTKon 1 June 1994. He served in the

institute as a cook in Kolkata (1994-97), a peon (1997-99) and in themedicine store section in (1999)Dharamsala. He retired on 1 July 2005.

Mr. Tsewang Dhondup : On 25 July2008, Mr. Tsewang Dhondup passedaway after a prolong illness. He was49. He joined MTK on 1 May 2003and worked as a driver in Bangalorebranch clinic. He was transferred toKollegal branch clinic in 2006 and from10 May 2008 to the branch clinic inBylakuppe and served in the samepost.

MTK sympathizes with all the family members and relatives of thedeceased and will remember their contributions to the institute.

From left to right :

Mr. Kunchok TenzinMr. Dorjee WangyalMrs. Tsering Choezom

3RD BATCH - PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF TSIRAMPA DRINGWA 2008

December 2009Obituary

Men-Tsee-Khang 13

NEW PACKAGING MACHINE OF

PHARMACY DEPARTMENT

Description : automatic form fill and sealingmachine

Product : tablet

Quantity : 10-30 nos

Packing : laminated pouches

Filling system : electronic tablet countingsystem

Speed : 10-15 pouches per minute

Power : 2.5 Kw, single phase

Motor : crompton geave / G.E.

Gear box : crown

ScholarshipTibet Freunde Switzerland 41,371.00Poor & needy peopleTove Larssen Norway 47,955.00Donation for brochureWilfried Pffefer Germany 62,852.00Donation for School Bus FundMedical France Tibet France 33,536.00Student exchange programmeTran Thi Kim-Dieu France 101,845.00Tran Thi Kim-Dieu 100,009.00Ladakh Jangdang Medical Camp FundDaniel Monconduit, Echange Himalaya France 126,182.00

MTK appreciates all the donors and well wishers for their generous donations

December 2009 Donations

Men-Tsee-Khang 14

December 2009

INAUGURATION OF MILD THERAPY CENTER ON 29 DECEMBER 2009

The mild therapy center was set up in order to benefit patients using external therapy by Men-Tsee-Khang. Dr. TsultrimKalsang and Dr. Namdol Lhamo supervise and provide medicinal baths, steam baths and massage therapy.

NEW PRINCIPAL OF COLLEGE

Dr. Tenpa Choephel succeeded the former principal (Dr. Tsewang Tamdin) as the new principal of the college. He joinedthe office from 1 October 2008. We welcome and greet the new principal and appreciate the former principal for hisdedication in the administration of the college.

2008 COLLEGE ANNIVERSARY

Photo gallery

Men-Tsee-Khang 15

HONORARY PRIZES FOR 20 YEARS SERVICE

Left to Right - Front row: Mr. Kunchok Tenzin, Dr. Dawa,Dr. Tenzin Lhadon, Dr. Tenpa Chophel, Dr. Jamyang TashiBack row : Mr. Lhawang Tsering, Mrs.Tsering Diki , Mrs.Phurbu Dolma , Mr. Dachung, Mr. Paljor, Dr. ThokmeyPaljor, Mr. Tenpa Chojor, Mr. Dorjee Wangyal

2009

December 2009 Photo gallery

2008

Left to Right - Front row: Dr. Penpa Tsering, Dr. TenzinTsephel, Dr. Dorjee Rapten, Dr. Tenzin Deche, Dr. TenzinKyipa, Dr. Pema YangchenBack row: Dr. Yeshi Dorjee, Mr. Tsering Dorjee, Mr.Gonpo, Dr. Tenzin Norbu, Dr. Kyizom, Dr. Tashi Wangdu

Back row : Dr. Ngawang Soepa, Dr. Tsultrim Kalsang, Dr. Lobsang Soepa, Dr. Jampa Tsering, Dr. Sherap, Dr. YeshiGelek, Dr. Jampa Yonten, Dr. Tenzin Jinpa, Mr. Tenzin Nyendak (Astrologer), Dr. Tenzin Phelgey, Dr. Padma Gurmet,Dr. Dorjee Wangdu, Dr. Shedup, Dr. Ngawang Thinley, Dr. Thinley Yangjor, Dr. Tenzin Gelek, Dr. Passang TseringFront row : Dr. Rinzin Lhamo, Dr. Tsewang Dolma, Dr. Sonam Diki, Dr. Karma Choedon, Mrs. Sonam Palmo(Astrologer), Dr. Sonam Wangmo, Dr. Ngawang Jinpa, Dr. Randhir Singh

10TH BATCH PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF MENRAMPA CHUNGWA AND 5TH BATCHTSIRAMPA CHUNGWA 2009

Men-Tsee-Khang 16

December 2009Men-Tsee-Khang Publications

A Handbook of TibetanMedicinal PlantsDr. Tsering Dorjee DekhangVersion : English

The book is the latest up-to-date version on Tibetanmedicinal plants. It iscomprehensive, usefulreference for professionals andamateurs. The book contains botanical, English,Tibetan, Hindi and family names of plants. It presentsa clear explanation of medicinal and other uses ofplants. The data on flowering and fruiting seasonsof the plants are also mentioned in the book.

Vaidurya sNgon-poDesi Sangye GyatsoVersion : Tibetan

This is one of the most popular commentaries of alltimes with profound knowledge on Tibetan systemof medicine. It is written on the basis of the Secret

Quintessential Instructions on theEight Branches of the AmbrosiaEssence Tantra. It gives a detailedexplanation and is considered aprimary text for study. It isformerly reproduced from a set ofChakpori blocks, revised inaccordance with other blocks likeDege (sde-ge) and published intothis present edition.

The Secret Quintessential Instructions onthe Eight Branches ofthe Ambrosia EssenceTantraYuthok Yonten GonpoVersion : TibetanThis revised edition of the bookis the basic root text for Tibetanmedical practitioners andportrays the complete intrinsicnature of Tibetan medicine. The

book has four parts: the Basic Tantra, the ExplanatoryTantra, the Oral Instruction Tantra and the SubsequentTantra. It outlines the nature of health, disease,diagnoses and treatments through medicine andtherapy based on Tibetan medical principles.

Integration of Materia Medica of TibetanMedicin, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha andChinese MedicineDr. Tsultrim KelsangVersion : Tibetan

This compilation of research and analysis on varioustraditional materia medica is the first of its kind. The

book illustrates a brief historicalaccount of each system. Itshows parts used, its tastes,post digestive taste, nature andits uses from the point of viewof Tibetan medical text,Ayurvedic materia medica,Unani, Siddha and Chinesemedicine. It also brings acreation of new inter-relationships between variousethnic indigenous medical

sciences to help alleviate and benefit human suffering.

A Clear Mirror of Tibetan MedicinalPlants (Vol : II)Dr. DawaVersion : Tibetan

The book is a botanicalpainting that illustrates 152medicinal plants. It showsthe synonym for correctidentification, classification,characteristics of materiamedica based on Tibetanmedical text. It also explainsthe period of collection,method of processing, the range of habitat and altitudeof plants grown all over, including Tibet, the Himalayanbelts, Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and India.

Men-Tsee-Khang 17

December 2009 Men-Tsee-Khang Publications

All Illuminating LampSewang ThinleyVersion : Tibetan

All Illuminating Lamp “Jung-tsisTshig-drel Tsug-lag Kun-sel Dron-mey” is a reference book on Tibetanelemental astrology. It can also becalled, a dictionary on elementalastrology, as it shows the meaning ofaround 490 terms that are used. It isthe first of its kind, and can be usedeasily by people from all knowledgebackgrounds. It is a useful book forbeginners, students and practitionersto find meanings of elementalastrology terms alphabetically.

Shal Gong Shal ThrangDewo Mar Tenzin PhuntsokVersion : Tibetan

The book has two parts withtotal 2,294 Tibetan materiamedical. It is comprised ofdifferent types of materiamedica, detailed explanations ofmedical substances,classifications, natures,potencies and identifications. Itis a valuable book for students,practitioners and researchers of Tibetan medicine. Itis one of the most accessible, detailed and clearlywritten descriptions of traditional Tibetan medicine inTibetan medical history.

Basic Tantra and Explanatory Tantrafrom the Secret QuintessentialInstruction on Eight Branches of theAmbrosia EssenceTransalation DepartmentVersion : English

The basic tantra and the explanatory tantratranslated into English byMen-Tsee-Khang fromGyud-Shi (the fourtantras of Tibetanmedicine) is the first of itskind. The basic tantrapresents an overview ofTibetan medicine. Itoutlines the basicprinciples of health anddiseases, methods ofdiagnosis and treatmentapproaches. Theexplanatory tantra beginswith the formation of the human body, descriptionof the anatomical structure, physiologicalcharacteristics and final disintegration of thehuman body. This book will be useful to allinterested English-speaking medical practitioners,scientist and researchers.

Please note changes in the phone numbers:

local : 01892 307068 / 307069 / 223113

international : 0091 1892 307068 / 307069 / 223113

Fax : 01892 224116

Men-Tsee-Khang 18

Staff Children scholarshipInitiative Oberland Germany 22,865.00Fesselet Vaterie France 7,440.00Carta Tonella Switzerland 4,340.00Ivonne Mariotti Nesurini Switzerland 5,115.00Medical France Tibet France 218,163.00Deutsche Tibethile e.v C/O Mrs.Wager Germany 73,609.00Verena Jung Austria 12,400.00Yvonne Mariott i Switzerland 4,950.00Inter Educare e.v Germany 137,158.00Tibet Charity Denmark 102,428.26Association Medical France Tibet France 225,618.00Elvy Ingegard Sweden 5,788.80Dr. Stefano Coaccioli Italy 43,497.50Donnoui D’Ordre Switzerland 10,800.00Susan B. Tatnall USA 11,250.00Deutsche Tibethilee.v C/O Mrs. Wager Germany 108,570.00Carta Tonella Switzerland 4,445.00Yvonne Mariotti Switzerland 4,950.00Gabriele Strehlan & Frank Ebert Germany 17,748.25Daniela Weber Switzerland 10,575.00Initiative Oberland Germany 27,622.50Sisko VienonenYlistorma Finland 20,925.00Tibet Charity Denmark 82,282.56

Donations received from April to September 2009MTK would like to thank all of our members, well-wisher, and friends for their continuing supportthroughout the year. MTK thanks the following donors for their generous contributions.

Hospital cum college & pharmaceutical fund

Tibet Bureau, Geneva Swiss 6,776.00Claire Stuckey, Minneapolis USA 2,769.00Marry Etta & James Litsheim, MN USA 4,615.00Art & Carol Doten, MN USA 4,615.00Debra Kuaffman USA 9,230.00Roger & Pamela Jackson USA 6,461.00Kathleen Pfaffinger & David Jones USA 4,615.00Xu-Kuan Shung & Wen Zei Li Taiwan 10,000.00Lin Yang-Ying Taiwan 2,000.00Lee Chia-Yuan Taiwan 3,000.00Chang Chen-Chin Taiwan 1,000.00Roger & Pamela Jackson USA 3,162.00Stds. Of University, Minnesota USA 32,305.00

December 2009Donations

Men-Tsee-Khang 19

M a i l C o n s u l t a t i o nThe Men-Tsee-Khang does not hold mail-consultation as priority since it is important for the patient tobe consulted personally by Tibetan physician based on its unique method of diagnosis (pulse, urineand interrogation). But owing to the growing demand and persistent request by many patients who donot have any access to Tibetan physician or can not afford to travel all the way to Dharamsala and itsclinics based in various parts of India and Nepal, we have designed this special mail-consultationfacility. It is, however, important to note certain criteria for the patient to facilitate conclusive diagnosisand optimum treatment:1. It is always better if the patient has personally consulted Tibetan physician once before he/sheentertains the facility of mail-consultation. 2. A copy of the Tibetan physician’s prescription (if consultedpersonally), and its feedback is necessary. 3. Patient’s name, age, sex, contact details and comprehensivecase history with present signs and symptoms should be furnished.Our senior doctors will personally review each case and medicines will be send to you through RegisteredParcel. You may choose to have the medicine send by International (DHL) or domestic courier with anadditional fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery and bear with us for any delay due to postal system/customs, which are beyond our control. Please notify us if you do not receive medicine within 3 weeks.Incase of urgency, please fax or email us with the requirements.

Mail Consultation Secretary (NL)Men-Tsee-Khang, Gangchen Kyishong,Dharamsala - 176215Khara Danda RoadHimachal Pradesh/IndiaTel: 0091-1892-223113/307068/69Fax: 0091-1892-224116E-mail: tmai@vsnl.com

Prices: Foreign IndiaInitial consultation 100 rs. 50 rs.Reconsultation 50 rs. 25 rs.Courier service fees depend on weight of medicine.Make cheque/money order payable to:Men-Tsee-Khang (TMAI) State Bank of India,Dharamsala (Code#0634) A/C No. 10551097556 swift : SBININBB277 IFSC : SBIN0000634

Chen-Men-Hua, Chou Chieh, Chen Yun Chang, Yun Ying, Chou-Mei, Huang Yu-Yin Family, Tan Dan-WeiFamily, Chang Hui Zh Family, Chen Da Yuan Family, Tean Zhong Nan Nan Family & Deng Ruei Jen.

Taiwan 40,050.00Min-Zhang Gui Chen Xui Hui & Su-Kuan Shung Taiwan 31,500.00

DonationJanet Yelowchan USA 1,790.00Virupaksh India 5,001.00Medicine Buddha Clinic USA 1,045.00Students of Army University USA 1,000.00Dr. Kalsang Wangyal (Ex.MTK) USA 14,137.54Tibet Charity Denmark 5,000.00Jim Johnson USA 1,828.00

December 2009 Mail Consultation

contd. pg.18

Men-Tsee-Khang 20

If undelivered please return to:M E N - T S E E - K H A N G(Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute of H.H. the Dalai Lama)Gangchen KyishongDharamsala – 176215District Kangra H.P. INDIA

BOOK POST

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UPCOMING EVENTS 2010

March10-July 17 Dr. Namdol Lhamo visits International Institute ofHigher Tibetan Studies, Huttenberg, Carinthia, Austriato conduct course on traditional Tibetan medicine.

March 15-17 IInd National Conference on Tibetan medicineorganized jointly by the Central Council of TibetanMedicine and Men-Tsee-Khang.

March 21 Tibetan medical camp at Hoshiarpur, PunjabMarch 23 Men-Tsee-Khang, 49th founding anniversary dayMay 24-30 A Course on Tibetan medicine to be conducted to

the groups from University of Minnesota, USA.

Men-Tsee-Khang 21