Before peaceful liberation 50 years ago, Tibet had no "mass media" because 90 percent of Tibetans were then illiterate and newspapers could not be popular among local residents.

The first newspaper in Tibet appeared in 1910, with seven pages only. It was introduced by Lian Yuan, a Tibet-stationed official appointed by the government of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Only a few noblemen could read it.

But now Tibet's media cause has been in the period marked by unprecedented development, with media service becoming indispensable for all Tibetans.

The Tibet Daily, one of the most influential news media organizations, is published in both the Tibetan and Chinese languages with one sub-newspaper, one sub-publication and 400 work staff.

Tibet has also an evening newspaper, a business newspaper and some other types of newspapers.

The Tibetan People's Radio Station has cable and FM programs covering 68 percent of the Tibetan population. It employs 200 people.

The Tibetan TV Station covers 63 percent of the Tibetan population, with its Tibetan-Chinese bilingual program well received.

In addition, the Xinhua News Agency, the People's Daily and Central People's Broadcast Station and many other central media organizations have established branch offices and correspondent stations or have assigned professional reporters and stringers in Tibet.

Tibet currently has 23 types of newspapers, 76 periodicals, two radio stations, three wireless and cable TV stations and 78 TV relay stations above the county level.

(Xinhua 05/21/2001)