Governor exhorts people to fight drug menace

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla yesterday called upon the people to contribute towards fighting the menace of drug abuse from the society. He was speaking at Kangar village after inaugurating the three-day State Level Haroli Festival here. Local MLA and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri accompanied the Governor.

This year the festival’s theme is ‘Drug Free Himachal-Drug Free Una, Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life’. The Governor wished the Haroli Festival a great success, adding that fairs and festivals are not mere rituals, but help us to remain rooted to our rich traditions and culture. He offered deep condolences on the death of innocent lives in Pahalgam and said terrorism was the biggest enemy of humanity.

Reiterating his commitment to the development of the state, he said as and when he receives any development proposal from the state government, he will forward it to the Central government with his recommendations.

The festival began with a colourful procession from government college, Haroli, to Kangar ground. The Governor and the Deputy Chief Minister led the procession in an open jeep, while children carrying placards and raising slogans against drug abuse set the tempo against the social evil.

At the venue, the Governor saw the exhibitions set up by women self-help groups to showcase their products. He took keen interest in the hand processed food items and handicrafts. Government departments showcased their various developmental and welfare schemes at the exhibition stalls.

On the occasion, traditional sports competitions in wrestling, tug of war and kabaddi were also organised. During the three days, cultural nights will be organised at the venue where Punjabi and Hindi singers will show their talent.

Mukesh Agnihotri will be the chief guest at the second cultural night on Monday, while Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will be chief guest at the closing ceremony. Chintpurni MLA Sudarshan Babloo, DC Jatin Lal and SP Rakesh Singh were also present, besides others.

Himachal Tribune