Zhoigar and Yangzom : Role Model of the Times in recognition of their loyalty and contributions to safeguard the border area

Zhoigar and Yangzom

Zhoigar and Yangzom receive the title of Role Model of the Times on October 16, 2018

Zhoigar and Yangzom, two women from a herding family in Southwest China's Tibet autonomous region, were awarded with the title “Role Model of the Times” in recognition of their loyalty and contributions to safeguard the border area.

With their father Sangye, this family is based in Yumai, China's smallest town in terms of population, which sits at the southern foot of the Himalayas, where steep slopes and rugged paths make access difficult.

For decades, it was called a “three-people township,” for only Sangye, his daughters Zhoigar and Yangzom and their families lived there, tenaciously safeguarding the national border. Among their activities is keeping an eye out along the border and reporting suspicious activities like possible smugglers.

Zhoigar and Yangzom wrote a letter to Xi while the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) was in session in Beijing. They told Xi their experiences in safeguarding the border area and the development of their township over the years.

In his reply, Xi acknowledged their efforts to safeguard the territory, and thanked them for the loyalty and contributions they have made in the border area. He also encouraged them to set down roots in the border area, safeguard the Chinese territory and develop their hometown.

With the staunch support of the central government, the per capita net income of Yumai registered 34,012 yuan ($5,312) in 2020, 68 times that of 1991. The “three-people township” has now more than 200 residents in 67 families, becoming a well-off and beautiful place.

Source：The Press Office, International Department of the CPC Central Committee