Narendranagar: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Golden Jubilee of the Maa Shri Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair on Sunday by unfurling the flag at the Community Ground in Narendranagar. The nine-day state-level fair is being organized from October 11 to 19. During the event, the Chief Minister inspected various tableaux, paid homage to martyrs at the Martyrs’ Memorial, and offered prayers before the portrait of Maa Kunjapuri.
Extending greetings, the Chief Minister said that organized since 1974, the fair symbolizes public faith, cultural heritage, and glorious traditions. Completing a five-decade journey, the event plays a vital role in trade, tourism, and regional development alongside its religious and cultural significance. He praised the contribution of fair founder and former District Magistrate Surendra Singh Pangti, congratulating the organizing committee, public representatives, local citizens, and artists.
The Chief Minister noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, special focus is being given to preserving and promoting cultural heritage and religious sites. Citing the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, development projects in the Badrinath-Kedarnath region, and the development of Manaskhand temples, he said religious tourism in Uttarakhand is gaining a new identity. The Char Dham Yatra has also seen remarkable growth.
Focus on Boosting Employment Through Local Products and Tourism
The Chief Minister highlighted that curbing migration, strengthening the local economy, and increasing employment opportunities for youth remain government priorities. Local products, agriculture, and tourism are being promoted through schemes like Deendayal Upadhyaya Griha Awas Yojana, homestays, One District-Two Products, House of Himalayas, State Millet Mission, Apple Mission, and Farm Machinery Banks.
He noted that demand for products crafted by women in the hills is rising, generating new local livelihood opportunities. Expanding tourism activities strengthens the potential for people to find employment within their villages, encouraging reverse migration.
The Chief Minister outlined key state decisions, including the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, anti-conversion laws, anti-riot laws, strong land laws, and anti-copying laws. He also noted anti-encroachment drives, Operation Kalneri, and the decision to dissolve the Madrasa Board. Transparent recruitment processes have resulted in over 35,000 government appointments over the past five years.
Highlights Development Works in Tehri
Sharing details of development works in Tehri district, the Chief Minister mentioned the construction of a ring road and tourism route around Tehri Lake. Upgradation of the Government Polytechnic in Narendranagar, establishment of a Kendriya Vidyalaya, Law College, auditorium construction, Gaja Hospital upgradation, and a ₹50 crore sewer line project are actively underway. He affirmed that infrastructure expansion aligns with local needs.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated a development exhibition and inspected departmental stalls showcasing schemes and achievements.
Glimpse of Folk Culture and Traditions Serves as Key Attraction
Tableaux taken out at the launch showcased vibrant colors of Uttarakhand’s folk culture, religious faith, and social awareness. Performances included Chholiya dance, Gaadu Gada Oil, Mahishasuramardini, Pride Daughters of India, Narsingh Avatar, Surya Namaskar, Makhan Holi, Maa Kunjapuri, Changing Narendranagar and Growing Narendranagar, and Kalbelia dance. Cultural troupes and school students participated with enthusiasm.
Forest and Health Minister Subodh Uniyal congratulated everyone on the Golden Jubilee, stating that started by former District Magistrate Surendra Singh Pangti, the initiative has transformed into a major state-level fair through public participation. He noted that the fair promotes folk culture, traditions, sports, and tourism activities.
Fair founder Surendra Singh Pangti shared his five-decade journey and development experiences, while Narendranagar Municipal Council President Rajendra Vikram Panwar emphasized the fair’s role in strengthening cultural identity and offering a platform to local artists.
Cultural Programs Scheduled Until October 19
Running from October 11 to 19, the fair will feature sports competitions, school-level contests, and cultural programs. Notable artists performing include Padma Shri Dr. Basanti Bisht, Sangeeta Dhoundiyal, Meena Rana, Kishan Mahipal, Narendra Singh Negi, Pandavas Band, Sudesh Lehri, Rajiv Thakur, and Sunanda Sharma. The fair will conclude with a Jagar performance by Padma Shri Jagar Samrat Pritam Bhartwan.
Dignitaries present included Narendranagar Block Pramukh Deeksha Rana, Tapovan Nagar Panchayat President Vineeta Bisht, Rishikesh Mayor Shambhu Paswan, Gaja Nagar Panchayat President Kunwar Singh Chauhan, BJP District President Uday Rawat, District Magistrate Nitika Khandelwal, SSP Shweta Choubey, CDO Varuna Agrawal, and ADM Shailendra Singh Negi.
