Grand Inauguration of the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Festival at Surajkund

Vice President of India C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurates the festival; Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini welcomes dignitaries

Chandigarh, January 31 - The Surajkund International Crafts Festival embodies the timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, where the world is regarded as one family, said the Vice President of India, Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan, while inaugurating the 39th edition of the festival at Surajkund, Haryana on Saturday. He described the festival as a vibrant platform that brings together skilled hands, innovative minds, and centuries-old traditions, celebrating India’s artistic excellence, cultural continuity, and the spirit of self-reliance.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Union Minister of State, Sh. Krishan Pal Gurjar, Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel, Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Sh. Rajesh Nagar, Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam and several other dignitaries from government, heritage, and tourism departments.

Upon arrival at the festival, Vice President visited the “Haryana Apna Ghar” pavilion, where he received a traditional welcome with a Haryanvi turban. He also explored the theme state of Meghalaya's stalls, interacted with artisans, and appreciated their craftsmanship. The Vice President observed cultural performances from various participating states and countries, encouraging artists and craftsmen alike.

The formal inauguration of the festival was marked by a ceremonial lamp lighting at the main Chaupal stage by the Vice President. Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan also launched the “Mela Saathi” app to enhance the experience of visitors. Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and Heritage & Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma presented the Vice President with a Panchajanya conch and an exquisite painting depicting scenes from the Mahabharata.

Surajkund Crafts Festival embodies the timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam— Vice President

Addressing the gathering, Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan said that the Surajkund International Crafts Festival has long been a vibrant symbol of India’s cultural soul, artistic excellence, and civilizational continuity. This festival manifests the timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which regards the world as one family. It brings together skilled hands, innovative minds, and traditions that shape our identity onto a common platform, he said. He highlighted that for nearly four decades, the festival has provided global recognition to artisans, weavers, sculptors, painters, and folk artists, preserving generations-old art forms. This year’s focus on a self-reliant India has further amplified the festival’s significance, as these artisans are custodians of centuries-old knowledge whose empowerment lays the foundation of an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economy.

Empowering artisans through the Prime Minister’s Vishwakarma Scheme

The Vice President further said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India’s rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts have been placed at the heart of a national renaissance. Transformative initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana have empowered artisans and craftsmen by providing skill development, financial support, and market connectivity, strengthening the entire ecosystem.

Highlighting the participation of states like Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya, Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan said these contributions strongly reflect the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’, where diversity is our greatest strength. Welcoming Egypt as a partner country, he noted the deep resonance between Egypt’s ancient civilization, cultural depth, and artistic traditions with India’s historical journey. Such collaborations, he said, reinforce cultural diplomacy and strengthen people-to-people connections between nations.

A celebration of cultural heritage and commercial success

In today’s era of mass production, Sh. C.P Radhakrishnan emphasized, the Surajkund Crafts Festival reminds us of the invaluable significance of handcrafted items, human touch, and authentic artistry. Last year, nearly 15 lakh visitors attended the festival, reflecting its deep connection with the public. The Vice President also highlighted the steadily growing sales of artisans’ products during the festival, underscoring its cultural and commercial success. He called upon artisans, organizers, and visitors to recognize, embrace, and advance this heritage.

Former Minister, Sh. Mool Chand Sharma, MLAs, Sh. Dhanesh Adlakha , Sh. Satish Fagna, Sh. Tejpal Tanwar, , Sh. Randhir Panihar and Smt. Krishna Gehlot, Commissioner and Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal, Director, Sh. Parth Gupta, and other senior officers and dignitaries also attended the event.

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Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan Inaugurates 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival

Surajkund emerges as India’s strongest platform for ‘Local to Global’: CM Nayab Singh Saini

Fair reflects the soul of India and the dignity of its artisans

Chandigarh, January 31 — The 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival 2026 was formally inaugurated in Faridabad on Saturday by Vice President of India, Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan, reaffirming India’s resolve to take indigenous crafts from local communities to the global marketplace. Recognised as one of the country’s largest cultural showcases, the Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival continues to celebrate India’s living heritage while strengthening the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’.

Addressing the gathering, Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival has evolved into a powerful cultural and economic platform that honours artisans, preserves traditional skills, and connects craftsmanship with sustainable livelihoods. Based on the themes ‘Local to Global’ and ‘Identity of a Self-Reliant India’, this fair reflects Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s vision of ensuring both respect and market access for artisans.

The Chief Minister said Surajkund is not merely an exhibition but a cultural movement that has earned recognition across the world. He said that artisans from India and abroad find new inspiration and opportunities through this platform, which has consistently grown in scale and stature over nearly four decades.

Union Minister of State, Sh. Krishan Pal Gurjar, Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel, Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Sh. Rajesh Nagar, Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam, and BJP State President, Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik and senior officers and distinguished guests also remained present on this occasion.

Welcoming Vice President, Sh. C.P. Radhakrishnan, the Chief Minister said his presence has added prestige to the event and inspired artisans from across the country and overseas. He described the Surajkund Fair as a globally recognised confluence of art, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange.

The Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to international guests, stating that the Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival represents a harmonious blend of India’s ancient traditions and modern aspirations. For the past 38 years, this fair has played a significant role in preserving and promoting Indian folk art and cultural traditions, and this legacy continues to expand.

He emphasized that the concept of self-reliance goes beyond economic independence. It also includes pride in one’s culture, preservation of heritage, and presenting India’s traditions to the world with confidence. The Surajkund Fair, he said, is a living example of this philosophy. From earthen pottery to hand-woven textiles, every product displayed at the fair reflects the essence of India. The true strength of the fair lies in its artisans, who keep these traditions alive through their skill and dedication.

Incredible India showcased through artisan’s craftsmanship

The Chief Minister said that artisans from every state and Union Territory of India are participating in this year’s fair. From bamboo craftsmanship of the Northeast to silk sarees of the South, vibrant embroidery of the West, and intricate wood carving of North India, the entire spectrum of ‘Incredible India’ is on display at Surajkund. He said that Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya are participating as partner states this year, while Egypt’s participation as the partner nation has added a strong international dimension to the fair. Such cultural exchanges, he said, help bridge distances between nations and strengthen people-to-people ties.

Highlighting the importance of tourism, Shri Saini said the Haryana government is making continuous efforts to promote tourism as it acts as a major engine for employment generation. The 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival stands as a clear example of this impact. With lakhs of visitors expected until February 15, the fair will provide significant economic benefits not only to artisans but also to local taxi operators, hotel owners, vendors, and small traders. Every purchase made by a visitor, he said, is not merely a transaction but a recognition of an artisan’s skill and a reinforcement of the ‘Vocal for Local’ ethos.

The Chief Minister said the state government regularly provides platforms to promote crafts and traditional arts. In addition to the Surajkund Fair, Saras fairs are organised at the district level, along with the annual Diwali Mela. He also referred to the International Saraswati Mahotsav and the International Gita Mahotsav at Kurukshetra, where large-scale Saras fairs are organised every year with participation from artisans across the country. To promote pottery and traditional clay art, the Haryana government has constituted the Mati Kala Board. Training in traditional crafts is also being imparted at Shri Vishwakarma Skill Development University.

Artisans encouraged to adopt modern technology

The Chief Minister urged artisans to enhance their skills by adopting modern technology. He said digital platforms now enable artisans, even in remote areas, to sell their products across the world. He also encouraged the use of modern techniques in design and product development to meet changing market demands while preserving traditional aesthetics.

He said that civilizations prosper through interaction and cooperation, making international participation essential. Expressing hope for further expansion of the fair in the coming years, he said that artists and tourists from India and abroad would take back fond memories of Haryana’s hospitality, inspiring them to return again.

Over 700 foreign delegates from more than 50 countries participating- Dr. Arvind Sharma

Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma said it is a matter of pride that the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival continues to scale new heights. Since its inception in 1987, the fair has evolved into a strong global identity for Indian cultural heritage, crafts, and art. Acting as a powerful ‘Local to Global’ platform, the Surajkund Fair plays a key role in connecting indigenous products with international markets.

He said that while 44 countries participated in the fair last year, this year more than 50 countries are represented, with over 700 foreign delegates and representatives taking part. Egypt is the partner nation for this edition, further strengthening cultural exchange between countries. The fair, he said, provides artisans and artists not only a platform to showcase their talent but also opportunities to enhance income and gain international recognition.

Dr. Arvind Sharma further highlighted Haryana’s rich historical and archaeological heritage, stating that the 7,000-year-old Rakhigarhi civilisation has significantly strengthened the state’s global identity.

On the occasion, MLAs Sh. Dhanesh Adlakha , Sh. Satish Fagna, Shri Tejpal Tanwar, Sh. Mool Chand Sharma, Sh. Randhir Panihar and Smt. Krishna Gehlot were present. Commissioner and Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department Dr. Amit Agrawal, Director, Sh. Parth Gupta, Deputy Commissioner, Faridabad, Sh. Ayush Sinha and along with other senior officers and dignitaries also attended the event.

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Kho-Kho truly embodies the spirit of India, deeply rooted in its soil, culture, and traditions-CM

CM formally declares the 35th Sub Junior National Kho Kho Championship 2025–26 open

Announces Rs. 21 lakh grant for Kho-Kho Association

Chandigarh, January 31- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Kho-Kho is far more than a sport, it is a symbol of India’s cultural ethos and the fragrance of its soil. He said the traditional game proves that limited resources can never stand in the way of talent, as it requires neither expensive equipment nor vast infrastructure. Kho-Kho nurtures agility, strategy, teamwork, discipline, and the ability to take swift decisions.

The Chief Minister was addressing the gathering at the inauguration of the 35th Sub-Junior National Kho-Kho Championship (Boys and Girls) at Keshav Park on Saturday. He formally declared the championship open and also announced a grant of Rs. 21 lakh for the Kho-Kho Association, and personally interacted with the participating players.

Cabinet Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar and Rajya Sabha MP, Sh. Subhash Barala were also present on the occasion. They interacted with the players and congratulated the organisers for the smooth and commendable conduct of the national-level championship.

Highlighting Haryana’s commitment to sports, the Chief Minister said the state has adopted a clear and forward-looking sports vision aimed at connecting every child with sports, developing playgrounds in every village, and providing equal opportunities to talented youth. With this objective, sports competitions are organised throughout the year across the state.

Referring to the Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s resolve, he said India is preparing for the 2036 Olympics with the goal of emerging as a global sports superpower. National initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India are a reflection of this vision. Haryana is widely regarded as the nursery of sports, with its athletes consistently bringing laurels to the country at international forums, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Expressing pride, the Chief Minister said the land of Haryana is the same sacred soil where Lord Krishna imparted the eternal message of duty, discipline, and righteous action to Arjuna. From this very land, traditional Indian games like Kho-Kho are spreading the values of discipline, dedication, teamwork, and national unity across the country. He said the championship marks not merely the start of a sporting event, but a celebration of India’s sporting culture, youth strength, and a promising future.

The Chief Minister said that a championship of this level was last hosted in Haryana in 2012, and after nearly 12–13 years, the state is once again witnessing this grand national sports festival. Thirty-four teams from across India and other sports units are participating in the championship, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for traditional Indian sports. The five-day tournament will conclude on February 4.

He further said that approximately 1,080 boys and girls from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Gujarat to the Northeast have gathered to showcase their talent, hard work, and confidence. Along with them, 210 dedicated coaches are present, who have invested years in training and mentoring these young athletes. Despite differences in language, attire, and culture, the shared spirit of sports unites everyone, he said, adding that sports have the unique power to break barriers and bind the nation together.

The Chief Minister emphasised that at a time when several countries across the world are adopting and learning from India’s traditional games, it is a collective responsibility to preserve this invaluable heritage and elevate it on the global stage. He said that athletes from Haryana have proudly hoisted the national flag at major events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships.

40 matches played on opening day

Welcoming the dignitaries, President, Haryana Sports Kho-Kho Association, Jawahar Singh Yadav said the championship will continue for five days and features teams from across the country. He informed us that 40 matches were played on the opening day.

General Secretary, Kho-Kho Federation of India,Upkar Singh Virk, said that while Kho-Kho was traditionally played on soil, the game has now evolved and is being played on modern mats as well.

The event was attended by BJP State President, Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik, former Minister of State, Sh. Subhash Sudha, Kho-Kho Federation of India President Sudhanshu Mittal, and several other dignitaries.

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Haryana Government committed to Antyodaya inspired by Guru Ravidas’ Ideals of Equality and Social Justice- CM

Guru Ravidas Dham to be built at Umri, Kurukshetra at a cost of Rs. 124 crore; Tenders worth Rs. 90 crore floated-CM

State government will formulate a dedicated policy to grant ownership rights to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe families who have been residing at the same location for the past 20 years, says CM

A statutory provision will be introduced during the upcoming budget session to ensure that funds under the Scheduled Caste Component Plan are utilised exclusively for the welfare and upliftment of the Scheduled Caste community, says Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, January 31- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday announced that the state government will formulate a dedicated policy to grant ownership rights to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe families who have been residing at a single location for over 20 years. He further said that statutory provisions will be introduced during the Budget Session to ensure that funds allocated under the Scheduled Caste Component Plan are used exclusively for the welfare of the Scheduled Caste community.

Addressing the state-level function marking the 649th birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji at Umri in Kurukshetra organized under the state government’s Sant Mahapurush Samman evam Vichar Prachar Prasar Yojana, the Chief Minister said the government is firmly committed to the principles of equality, harmony and social justice preached by Guru Ravidas.

Responding to demands raised by the programme’s organiser, Development and Panchayats Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar, the Chief Minister announced that concessions would also be provided through a policy framework for industrial and commercial use under HSIDC. He said that suggestions should be submitted regarding promotion in Group A and B posts for Scheduled Caste employees and the determination of creamy layer criteria, which is to be finalised by March 31, 2026. The government, he said, would make earnest efforts to address these demands based on the inputs received.

Earlier, upon his arrival at the venue, the Chief Minister, paid floral tributes to the portrait of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji and sought blessings from saints present on the occasion. He was felicitated by Development & Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar with a turban, shawl and a memento.

Guru Ravidas Dham to be built at Umri, Kurukshetra at a cost of Rs. 124 crore; Tenders Worth Rs. 90 crore floated

The Chief Minister announced that a Guru Ravidas Dham will be constructed on five acres of land at Umri in Kurukshetra at a total cost of Rs. 124 crores. Tenders worth Rs. 90 crores have already been floated in the first phase of the project.

Guru Ravidas—A Guide for Humanity across ages

The Chief Minister said that Guru Ravidas Ji was a saint whose personality was as calm and radiant as the full moon. He said Guru Ravidas’ teachings, values and words are timeless and immortal, transcending eras. He was not merely a saint of his time but a guide for humanity for all ages, the Chief Minister said, adding that through simple and practical language in his poetry, Guru Ravidas Ji conveyed profound ideas to the masses.

He said that Guru Ravidas Ji played a courageous and historic role in social reform during the Bhakti movement, awakening a society entangled in caste divisions, superstition and discrimination. Guru Ravidas Ji did not belong to any one caste or sect, he was a pathfinder for the entire human race, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Elaborating on Guru Ravidas’ progressive vision, the Chief Minister said the saint envisioned a society where everyone had access to food, dignity and equal opportunities, free from distinctions of big and small. He said these ideals find their true reflection in Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.’

State-Level celebrations to preserve legacy of saints

The Chief Minister said that saints, sages and gurus have always guided humanity towards the true path of life, and their teachings are a shared heritage of mankind. Preserving and promoting this legacy, he said, is a collective responsibility. Under the Sant Mahapurush Samman evam Vichar Prachar Prasar Yojana, the Haryana Government is taking the message of saints to the masses by organising their birth anniversaries at the state level. The present function, he said, was part of that ongoing effort.

Government firmly committed to Antyodaya

Reiterating the government’s resolve, the Chief Minister said the state is committed to Antyodaya while following Guru Ravidas Ji’s principles of equality, harmony and social justice. He urged people to educate their children and work collectively to eradicate caste discrimination, social inequality and communal divisions, stating that such efforts would be the truest tribute to Guru Ravidas.

He emphasised that the teachings of Guru Ravidas remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago and continue to guide public policy. In line with this vision, the government has formulated policies aimed at uplifting the poorest sections of society. The Haryana State Scheduled Castes Commission has been constituted to safeguard the rights and welfare of Scheduled Castes, and 20 percent reservation has been provided in Group A and B posts.

Major Welfare Initiatives for the Poor and Marginalised

Highlighting housing initiatives, the Chief Minister said 1.56 lakh houses have been provided under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Additionally, over 27,000 poor families in rural and urban areas have been allotted plots under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana. Ownership rights have also been granted to occupants of houses up to 500 square yards built on Panchayati land in villages.

He said that illness does not discriminate between rich and poor, and therefore no poor person should be denied treatment due to lack of funds. Under the Ayushman Bharat–Chirayu Yojana, free treatment up to Rs. 5 lakh is provided, benefiting over 27 lakh people so far. Free dialysis services have also been introduced in all government hospitals and medical colleges for kidney patieFor education, Scheduled Caste students receive annual scholarships ranging from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 12,000 after matriculation under the Dr Ambedkar Medhavi Chhattar Yojana. Students from families with an annual income up to Rs. 2.5 lakh are also provided free coaching up to two times through private institutions for competitive and entrance examinations. Under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, students receive educational assistance ranging from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 13,500 per year, along with payment of all mandatory non-refundable fees.

Under the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme, SC day scholars studying in Classes IX and X receive Rs. 3,500 annually, while hostellers receive Rs. 7,000. Children of families engaged in sanitation and hazardous occupations are also provided scholarships from Class I to X. To ensure economic and social security for women, the government has launched the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, under which eligible women receive Rs. 2,100 per month. So far, over 8.63 lakh beneficiaries have received Rs. 441 crore in three instalments.

Guru Ravidas was not only a saint but also a social reformer and thinker- Manohar Lal

Addressing the programme virtually, Union Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal said that Guru Ravidas was not just a saint, but also a profound social reformer and philosopher. He was born in the 15th century in Varanasi. Today, a Mela is organised on the occasion of Purnima in Varanasi, which attracts devotees from far and wide, reflecting the deep inspiration his life continues to offer to society.

The Union Minister said that Guru Ravidas Ji imparted many teachings which remain relevant even today. He believed strongly in discipline and integrity, and was known for standing firmly by his word, often saying that life may be sacrificed, but not one’s promise.

Sh. Manohar Lal further stated that citizens who follow the values and teachings of Guru Ravidas should rise above caste distinctions. Guru Ravidas firmly rejected caste-based divisions and emphasised moral strength and human values. His teachings underline that a good human being can belong to any caste, and that individuals are ultimately known by their values, conduct, and positive thinking.

He added that, inspired by the teachings of saints, the state has implemented a transparent system of providing jobs without favoritism or recommendations. The government has also designed welfare schemes for every section of society and will continue to do so in the future. Through the Parivar Pehchan Patra initiative, benefits of government schemes are being delivered directly to households. He also highlighted the implementation of the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Scheme for the welfare and empowerment of women.

Message of Equality and Humanity Still Relevant: Krishan Lal Panwar

Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar said the message of equality, humanity and social harmony given by Guru Ravidas remains deeply relevant today. He thanked the Chief Minister for issuing tenders worth Rs. 90 crore for the construction of Guru Ravidas Dham and described the event as a reflection of the government’s commitment to Guru Ravidas’ ideology and his followers. He also presented a memorandum of demands related to the community and expressed confidence that the state government would continue working for the upliftment of all sections of society.

Government Working to Realise Social Harmony- Mohan Lal Kaushik

BJP state president, Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said the Haryana Government is working continuously with inclusive and people-centric policies for the welfare of all sections. He lauded the initiative to construct Guru Ravidas Dham as a step towards realising Guru Ravidas’ message of social harmony. He said the government’s focus on development, good governance and social justice has resulted in people reposing faith in it and giving it a third consecutive mandate.

Cabinet Ministers, Sh. Krishan Bedi, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Rajya Sabha MP, Sh. Subhash Barala, Chief Whip and MLA, Sh. Ram Kumar Kashyap, MLAs, Sh. Bhagwan Dass Kabirpanthi, Sh. Pawan Kharkhoda, Sh. Krishan Kumar and Sh. Ghanshyam Arora and senior BJP leaders, district administration and police officers, former ministers, former MPs and a large number of eminent personalities attended the programme.

Agriculture Minister visits the Raiya Horticulture Research Centre in Jhajjar

Minister directs horticulture experts to develop new vegetable and fruit varieties as per regional demand

Horticulture can multiply farmers’ income- Agriculture Minister

Chandigarh, January 31 — Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, visited the Horticulture Research Centre at Raiya in Jhajjar, operating under Maharana Pratap Horticulture University. During the visit, he reviewed the ongoing activities and research initiatives being undertaken for the welfare of farmers.

While interacting with the officers and experts, the Agriculture Minister said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s policies have consistently focused on enhancing farmers’ income. On his arrival at the centre, the village panchayat, led by the sarpanch, accorded him a traditional welcome by presenting a turban.

Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that former Agriculture Minister, Sh. Om Prakash Dhankar had further strengthened the Prime Minister’s vision by developing the Raiya Horticulture Centre and the Seed and Flower Centre of Excellence at Munimpur, which proved to be a significant boost for farmers in the region. He emphasized the need for farmers to shift from traditional farming to horticulture to improve their earnings. The Minister said that such centres would play a crucial role in making farming more profitable.

The Agriculture Minister also suggested initiating date palm cultivation in the area to further benefit farmers.

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