On 25 August 2024, Ms. Siriporn Tantipanyathep, Consul-General of Thailand in Kolkata presented ‘Volunteer Consul’ certificate and brooch pin to Phrakrupalad Bodhivongworrarat, Chief Abbot of Wat Thairachaduta 609 in Darjeeling. This recognition is part of an initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand to honor individuals who assist the Royal Thai Embassies/Consulates-General in consular affairs and support Thai nationals abroad.

The Consulate-General nominated the Chief Abbot for his exceptional dedication over the past six years, in supporting Thai students in Darjeeling. His contributions include coordinating mobile consular services, facilitating visits by Thai physicians to provide medical advices to Thai students, and establishing the Thai Students Service Centre. Additionally, the Thai temple also serves as an important contact point for the parents of students and other Thai nationals seeking assistance.

During the event, the Consul-General also provided some funding to support the temple’s ongoing mission to care for the Thai community in Darjeeling.