In a moving tribute to a life devoted to compassion and service, the Government of India has posthumously conferred the Padma Shri 2025 on Venerable Lama Lobzang, a highly respected Buddhist monk and humanitarian from Ladakh. He was recognized in the category of Others – Spiritualism for his unwavering contributions to public service, spiritual leadership, and community welfare.
Lama Lobzang was known not just as a spiritual teacher but also as a compassionate reformer. He worked tirelessly for over five decades to support the healthcare, education, and spiritual needs of Ladakhi and Himalayan communities—especially those living far from basic infrastructure.
As President of the Asoka Mission, New Delhi, he personally coordinated support for thousands of patients from Ladakh seeking medical treatment in Delhi hospitals, arranging free accommodation, food, and emotional support for those in need.
Lama Lobzang was the founding Secretary-General of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the largest international body representing Buddhist organizations and traditions. Through this platform, he helped bring global attention to Indian Buddhist heritage, while promoting peace, dialogue, and cultural unity across nations.
He served multiple terms on the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, using his platform to uplift underrepresented voices and promote equality. He also helped students from remote regions of Ladakh get access to quality education in metropolitan cities.
Lama Lobzang passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy deeply etched in the hearts of the people of Ladakh. Upon announcement of the Padma Shri, community members, religious leaders, and public officials gathered in Leh to pay tribute to his selfless contributions.
“Lama Lobzang ji symbolized true Buddhist compassion through action. His life was a blessing to countless families in Ladakh,” said a statement from the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.
- Spiritual Service with Real-World Impact
- Healthcare Support for Remote Communities
- Global Cultural Leadership in Buddhism
- Empowerment through Education and Equality
The Padma Shri 2025 awarded to Lama Lobzang stands as a national salute to his extraordinary journey of blending faith, compassion, and service
