This talk by Ishani Dasgupta (University of Wisconsin, Madison) examines the liminal identities of Tibetan refugee soldiers in India's Special Frontier Force (SFF). Drawing on interviews with veterans in Bylakuppe's old age home, the study reveals how the Indian nation-state exploits refugee communities for military labor while having denied them citizenship, pension, and official recognition. At the same time, it reveals the overlapping and complex commitment of the refugee soldier to their host nation, and simultaneously to enduring aspiration for Tibetan self-determination.

Haines Hall, Rm 352 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM