Pronunciation: [kˈaʃaɡ] (IPA) 
The word "Kashag" is commonly spelled as ka-shag. It is a Tibetan term that refers to the governing council of Tibet. The IPA phonetic transcription for Kashag is /kæʃɑːɡ/. The "k" sound is pronounced at the beginning of the word, followed by the "æ" sound in "cat" for the "a" in "ka". The "sh" sound is pronounced as in "sheep", and the "ɑː" sound in "father" is used for the "a" in "shag".
Kashag refers to a significant political institution in the Tibetan government and culture. The term originates from the Tibetan language, where "ka" means "royal" or "government" while "shag" translates to "council" or "assembly." The Kashag is a high-level executive body and is considered the highest executive authority in the Tibetan political system.
Traditionally, the Kashag was the council of ministers that served as the governing body of Tibet under the Dalai Lama's rule. Comprising various ministers who held specific portfolios, the Kashag was responsible for the administration and governance of Tibet. The council was led by the Kalön Tripa, commonly referred to as the Prime Minister.
Since the transition of power in the exile Tibetan government, after the Dalai Lama's exile in 1959, the Kashag continued to play a crucial role in the Tibetan political system. It evolved to become the highest executive authority responsible for policy-making, governance, and administration in the Central Tibetan Administration or the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, based in Dharamshala, India.
The Kashag consists of several Kalöns (ministers) who hold different portfolios such as finance, security, education, health, and foreign affairs. The Kalön Tripa, equivalent to the Prime Minister, is the head of the Kashag and is elected by the Tibetan people through a democratic process.
Overall, the Kashag represents the highest executive governing body in the Tibetan political system, ensuring the effective functioning of the administration and contributing to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan culture and values.
The word "Kashag" has its origins in the Tibetan language. It is a term used to refer to the governmental council of Tibet, particularly during the time of the Dalai Lamas. The etymology of the word "Kashag" is as follows:
In Tibetan, "ka" means "the one who does", and "shag" means "work" or "task". Hence, when combined, the word "Kashag" translates to "the one who does the work" or "one in charge of the task". It signifies the responsibilities and duties of the council members in governing Tibet under the leadership of the Dalai Lama.
The Kashag council was responsible for assisting the Dalai Lama in making political and administrative decisions for Tibet. It consisted of high-ranking officials and ministers who managed various governmental affairs such as finance, defense, justice, and foreign relations.
