Qamdo, one of the first cities liberated in China's Xizang 75 years ago, has turned from a highly illiterate society into a prospering region with fast-developing education and modern infrastructure.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Xizang's peaceful liberation. On October 6, 1950, the 18th Army of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) climbed over the mountain from Sichuan, crossed over the Jinsha River, and entered Xizang. It marked the beginning of the Battle of Qamdo.
The goal was to wage a short yet decisive campaign to pressure local authorities to the negotiating table.
Within weeks, the PLA secured a victory. Seven months later, the peaceful liberation of the whole of Xizang was signed into agreement.
Tse Sha, former Chinese Communist Party Secretary of Aila Village, was born in 1963, 13 years after the village became the first place liberated in Xizang. He recalled playing basketball with the 18th Army soldiers who remained in Xizang to build roads and bridges across the plateau.
Today, his hometown is quietly prospering, with local monks running grocery stores and driving sedans.
"The biggest changes are that we now have running water, paved roads, and electricity," he said.
In another town in the Qamdo region, the memory of the 18th Army runs through a family of doctors.
Former 18th Army soldier Li Yuanlang came to Xizang from Chongqing as a young medic in the troops. Like so many of his peers, he stayed, built roads and bridges, started a family, and never left.
Today, his grandson, Losong Sonam, runs a successful business selling Tibetan medicine across China. He uses a significant portion of the profits to help families in the area who cannot afford major medical treatment.
"This medical box belonged to my grandfather, and my father showed it to me," Losong Sonam said as he showcased the medical box.
Farmers and herders who make a moderate living make up a significant part of Xizang's population. To support them, the government provides a wide range of subsidies, including educational. Qamdo Experimental Primary School, opened in 1951, was the first modern school in Xizang.
"Students don't need to spend a single cent. All educational costs are covered through special government funding and public welfare support. We also provide nutritious meals every day worth five yuan (0.74 US dollar) each person to ensure children receive proper nutrition. The level of support is almost unimaginable," said Gyayong Yuanding, Party secretary of the school.
Xizang city embraces prosperity 75 years after liberation
