Tibet faced financial challenges due to several factors, including geopolitical tensions and the need to modernize the military.
In response to these problems, the Tibetan government imposed unique taxes on certain body parts, particularly ears and noses.
The ear and nose taxes were primarily symbolic, intended to demonstrate the Tibetan people's loyalty and support for the government's military efforts.
[4] Contemporary American researchers reported that no tax was levied on severed ears, which may have resulted from cosmetic surgery or punishment.
[citation needed] Anna Louise Strong also mentioned taxes on women with braided hair consisting of two plaits.