The late Lama Lobzang, Founder and Former President of Ashoka Mission, has been posthumously honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Award, the fourth-highest civilian award in India. This recognition celebrates his tireless service to humanity, particularly his contributions to the people of Ladakh.

The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, expressed its deepest gratitude to the Government of India for honoring the enduring legacy of Lama Lobzang with the Padma Shri.

CEC Tashi Gyalson extended sincere thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for recognizing Lama Lobzang’s remarkable achievements. CEC Gyalson also conveyed his heartfelt congratulations, saying, “We are deeply honored to see Lama Lobzang’s lifelong commitment to humanity celebrated with this prestigious award. His legacy will continue to inspire us all. My sincere congratulations to his family during this moment of immense pride.”

Tashi Motup Kau, representing Ashoka Mission, expressed immense gratitude, saying, “It is with deep humility that I share that Late Venerable Lama Lobzang, who served as President of Ashoka Mission for over 50 years, has been posthumously conferred the Padma Shri.” He also thanked LAHDC, the institutions and organizations of Ladakh, and the people of Ladakh for their support, as well as the Government of India for this recognition.

Lama Lobzang was a prominent figure in the global Buddhist movement and played a key role in establishing the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), aimed at promoting Buddhist values worldwide. He served for over 20 years as a member of the High Power Panel on Minorities, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Weaker Sections, as well as the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes of the Government of India.

Additionally, Lama Lobzang initiated a Medicare program with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for over 25 years, providing super-specialist treatment for thousands of patients suffering from complex and advanced diseases. He also organized free medical camps across Ladakh. His notable healthcare contribution included facilitating cancer treatment for Ladakh patients at AIIMS, a program that now extends free accommodation for cancer patients and their attendants.

Lama Lobzang’s lifelong humanitarian service is a testament to his mission of creating a more compassionate society. His extraordinary achievements were made possible through the unwavering support and encouragement he received throughout his journey.