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The Tibetan Children's Village School (TCV) celebrated its 45th founding anniversary yesterday. It is one such event in Dharamshala which attracts a mass of local people.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the spiritual and temporal leader of Tibet, graced the occasion with his presence.

His Eminence the Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorjee, was also present at the celebration.

Other dignitaries present at the anniversary include three Kalons, the Chair and Vice- chair of the Assembly and officials of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

Congratulating TCV on the successful completion of 45 years, His Holiness said that he is very pleased with the achievements of the TCV.

His Holiness said that education plays a pivotal role in today's world and it is very much related to our religion. He said that we can attain eternal peace and happiness only through religion and for this we need to be educated and well aware rather than blindly believing in its teachings.

His Holiness urged the Tibetans inside Tibet not to suffer the hardships in attending the 2006 Kalachakra at Amravati, citing that they can recite the holy mantras from inside Tibet, and he will pray for them during the course of Kalachakra empowerment.

Kalon Tripa(Prime Minister) Prof Samdong Rinpoche said that the establishment of schools for the Tibetan children in exile is one of the greatest achievement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

He spoke on the new basic education policy implemented by the CTA and how it contributes to the preservation and promotion of our civilization.

Kalon Tripa mentioned the importance of non-governmental administration of the schools and for this he is expecting the assistance of the TCV.

Pema Jugney, the chairman of the Assembly of Tibetan People's Deputies addressed the gathering on behalf of the Assembly.

Cultural performances from the head TCV and its branches were the charm of the morning session.