Nalwari fair celebrated with traditional fervour at Jhanduta

The vibrant three-day Baisakhi Nalwari Fair commenced at Jhanduta in Bilaspur district with a grand traditional procession. The event was inaugurated by Nardev Kanwar, chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Building and Construction Workers Welfare Board. After offering prayers at the Thakurdwara temple, he performed the symbolic act of nailing a peg at the ‘Mela Ground’.

Addressing the gathering, Kanwar emphasised that fairs were vital to preserving the rich folk traditions, music, art and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. He said such events not only provide entertainment but also promote social harmony by uniting all sections of society.

Kanwar highlighted the state government’s dedication to the welfare of construction workers. He mentioned 13 welfare schemes currently being implemented, offering benefits such as marriage assistance, scholarships, death and medical compensation, pensions, maternity benefits, and aid for mentally challenged children. He also noted that single women, widows, and destitute women are eligible for financial assistance of up to Rs 3 lakh for house construction.

Vivek Kumar, general secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee, lauded fairs as symbols of cultural pride and social awareness. He shared insights from the 2025-26 state budget presented by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, which includes key initiatives for farmers and youth. These include Minimum Support Prices for wheat, maize, and turmeric, and a goal to bring 1 lakh farmers into natural farming practices by 2026. Currently, 1.58 lakh farmers in the state have already adopted this sustainable approach.

The event also saw the presence of Labour Welfare Board Director Jitendra Chandel, Block Congress president Satish Chandel, Youth Congress president Pankaj Rana and Jhanduta SDM Kunika, who added to the festive spirit of the occasion.