'Hype of war between India, Pak generated by West'

UNA, Feb 17 (UNI) Tibetan prime miniser-in-exile Prof Samdong Rinchpoche has said the hype of war between India and Pakistan has been generated by the developed countries though, left to themselves, the two neighbours would never engage in battle.

Denouncing wars as the creation of vested interests who were only concerned with its commercial aspects, he said, "No matter how many lives are lost, the loss or gain is calculated only in terms of the quantity of arms and ammunition sold to a particular country or community." Addressing a function organised by NGO Himotkarsh Parishad at Kotla Khurd village yesterday, the leader said that population explosion, unplanned development, religious strife, terrorism and economic inequality were the main problems that had to be brought under control to bring peace in the world.

Without referring to the lathicharge by Himachal policemen on a Tibetan Peace March at Dharamshala, the Tibetan PM-in-exile said India had the status of a "Jagat Guru," but the fact was oblivious at the moment.

India is not weak and it is fast developing into a country which will have a reckoning in the world, he said.

Referring to Mahatma Gandhi's book "Hind Swarajya," Prof Rinpoche said he was greatly moved by the "truth" reflected in the book.

The Tibetans will observe a century of the publication of the book in 2009, when Gandhi'ji's teachings will be taken to every child at the school or college level, Prof Rinpoche said.

Later, Delhi High Court judge Pradeep Nandrajog and Hind Samachar group chief editor Vijay Chopra honoured nine individuals or organisations for excellence.

The awardees included Lt Triveni Singh (Ashok Chakra) and Capt Mridul Sharma, both posthumously for gallantry, Dr Balraj Komal for literature, Mahashay Gokul Chand for social service, Dr Ravi Kashyap for education, Durlabh Singh Puri for environment protection, "Amar Jyoti" organisation of Delhi for service to humanity.

Besides, Dr Aruna Goel of Chandigarh and J N Barowalia, registrar of the Himachal Pradesh High Court were also honoured.