Shimla, (Himachal Pradesh) [India], January 14 (Diary Times): Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over a review session of the Language and Culture Department today. During the meeting, he announced that a master plan would be created for enhancing the Baba Balak Nath, Mata Chintpurni, Shri Naina Devi, and Jwalaji temple complexes. These improvements aim to provide world-class facilities for pilgrims, boosting religious tourism in the state.

The Chief Minister further revealed that from the upcoming financial year, ‘district level festivals’ will be held across all districts. Each of these festivals will feature at least one cultural evening dedicated to showcasing local talent.

In addition, a provision will be made to allocate 33 percent of the total budget for cultural programs to support local artists. Sukhu also directed the standardization of artist honorariums, ensuring fair compensation for their performances.

Sukhu highlighted that the state government has officially recognized 107 fairs, which include 4 international, 5 national, 29 state, and 69 district-level fairs. The government has also earmarked Rs 1.10 crore in assistance for organizing these events during the 2024-25 financial year.

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The Chief Minister mentioned that the construction of a digital museum at Bantony Castle in Shimla is set to be completed this year. Additionally, he directed the development of the International Roerich Memorial Trust from a tourism perspective and called for the official recognition of the Shimla Winter Carnival. The Chief Minister also conducted an in-depth review of other ongoing initiatives managed by the department.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Health Minister Dr. (Colonel) Dhani Ram Shandil, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Chief Minister’s Secretary Rakesh Kanwar, OSD Gopal Sharma, Director of Language and Culture Dr. Pankaj Lalit, and other senior officials.

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