New Tibet, new life

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-23-2009 09:31

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This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Democratic reform of Tibet. With the efforts of the people of the Autonomous Region, Tibet has witnessed a historic transformation from the old feudal serf system to a socialist system.

With the efforts of the people of the Autonomous Region,  Tibet has witnessed a historic transformation from the old  feudal serf system to a socialist system.

This village in southern Tibet is known as democracy village.

That's because it's the first village in the Tibet Autonomous Region that evolved from feudal serfdom to a socialist society after the democratic reform beginning in 1959.

Half a century ago, former serfs elected their first leader. They cast their votes by hurling stones. And democratic principles have gradually taken root ever since.

Local villagers voice their concerns to visiting legislators. And these local deputies will be representing the Tibet Autonomous Region at the session of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature next month.

A villager said, "Methane is environmentally friendly and cost-effective, I hope the government can promote it."

The democratic process couldn't have come without the expanding freedom of individual villagers.