Traditional fairs foster unity, promote culture: Harshwardhan Chauhan

Our Correspondent

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Nahan, August 6

Himachal Pradesh, often revered as the “Devbhoomi”, is a region where most fairs and festivals are deeply intertwined with ancient traditions and deities. These fairs not only promote communal harmony and unity, but also serve as a significant platform for entertainment through sports competitions and cultural programmes. Moreover, such events play a crucial role in keeping the youth away from drug abuse.

The Minister of Industries, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour and Employment, Harshwardhan Chauhan, said this during the closing ceremony of the three-day Shanol fair in the Nai-Neti gram panchayat of the Rajgarh region. The minister emphasised the importance of development in the state. He extended his greetings to the people on the occasion and urged them to support the Chief Minister in his vision to elevate the state to new heights.

Chauhan criticised the BJP, accusing them of attempting to destabilise the government, adding that the people of Himachal Pradesh had given a fitting reply to such efforts. He highlighted that the current government inherited the responsibility of paying the outstanding dues for employees’ dearness allowance (DA) and arrears from the previous administration. Despite these challenges, the government successfully implemented the old pension scheme (OPS) and fulfilled its promise to provide a pension of Rs1,500 to women, he added.

During the event, the Industries Minister announced financial contributions to the local community, including Rs 3 lakh for the development of Mela Ground, Rs 2 lakh for the construction of the Shanol stage, Rs 1 lakh for the temple courtyard, Rs 2 lakh for the construction of the Devi Nagarkoti courtyard and Rs 25,000 for Mela Committee.

The minister, after inspecting the Mela Ground, planted a deodar sapling to send a message of environmental conservation. He also heard the grievances of the local people at the Nai-Neti panchayat ghar.

Minister Chauhan distributed prizes to the winners of various sports competitions and wrestling matches held during the fair. He awarded Rs 7,100 to Veer Singh, the winner of the junior wrestling competition and Rs 11,000 to Vikram, the winner of the senior wrestling competition.

The fair, like many others in Himachal Pradesh, not only celebrates tradition and culture, but also reinforces the state’s commitment to development and the well-being of its people, he added.

The event also featured vibrant cultural performances by schoolchildren. The closing ceremony was attended by prominent figures.