Sukhu inaugurates Winter Festival in Lahaul to celebrate local culture

Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul Sharad Utsav, a traditional winter festival, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The festival, which spans over two months, showcases the vibrant culture and heritage of the region. It brings together diverse local customs and traditions and offers various activities, including archery, snow sports, culinary delights, and knitting competitions. 

The festival takes place post-snowfall and celebrates the unique customs and traditions of Lahaul. It provides an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Boosting tourism and economy

During the inauguration, CM Sukhu highlighted the importance of tourism in driving the state's economy. He announced plans to develop five new tourist destinations in the upcoming fiscal year, including Chandratal, Kaza, and Tandi in Lahaul and Spiti, and Rackchham and Nako-Chango-Khab in Kinnaur district. These developments aim to provide employment and entrepreneurial opportunities to locals.

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Sukhu also launched the "Discover Lahaul Spiti" mobile application, equipped with modern artificial intelligence integration. The app features an interactive Chatbot to assist tourists in exploring attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the district.

Additionally, the chief minister inaugurated the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Samman Nidhi Yojana, which aims to provide financial assistance to women in Lahaul and Spiti. The scheme will grant ₹1,500 per month to women aged 18 and above, with plans to extend benefits to over 2.42 lakh women.

Empowering women and enhancing education

Furthermore, Sukhu announced various development schemes, including the Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Shiksha Yojana, which supports the education of children of widows until they reach the age of 27. The government also increased the daily wage under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and ensured high minimum support prices for milk, wheat, and maize produced through natural farming methods.

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In summary, the Lahaul Sharad Utsav not only celebrates the cultural heritage of Lahaul but also marks significant strides in tourism development and social welfare initiatives under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhu.