No. 853/2025-PUB 27th July 2025
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said that Chamba district, with its glorious history spanning over a thousand years, is known for its natural beauty and rich folk art and culture. The historic International Minjar Fair, renowned for its rich traditions, not only showcases the unique culture of Himachal Pradesh but also promotes social harmony.
The Governor stated this while addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony of the International Minjar Fair–2025. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
Extending his best wishes to the people of the state for the Minjar Fair–2025, which is considered a symbol of victory, Shiv Pratap Shukla expressed hope that the event brings joy and enthusiasm among the people. He also called upon everyone to preserve traditional folk culture and maintain social harmony.
The Governor expressed serious concern over the increasing prevalence of narcotic substances and emphasized the need for collective awareness to combat this social evil. He advised the youth to stay away from drugs. On this occasion, an anti-drug pledge was also administered. He flagged off an awareness rally aimed at spreading a strong message against drug abuse.
Earlier, the Governor offered Minjar to Lord Shri Raghuvir and Shri Lakshmi Narayan. He formally inaugurated the Minjar Fair–2025 by hoisting the traditional flag to the melodious tunes of the traditional Koonjdi-Malhar.
He also inaugurated and visited the sports competitions organized under the fair, as well as exhibitions set up by various departments and social organizations.
Under the Sampoornta Abhiyan the Governor felicitated departmental officers and employees who had performed exceptionally at the district and sub-divisional levels.
President Municipal Council Neelam Nayar presented the traditional Minjar to the Governor.
Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the Minjar Fair Organizing Committee, Mukesh Repaswal, honored the Governor on behalf of the committee.
Deputy Commissioner said that the cultural evenings of the fair have been designed to cater to the interests of all age groups. Artists from Chamba as well as other districts of Himachal Pradesh will get the opportunity to showcase their performances during the eight-day-long fair.
Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania, his wife Neena Pathania, MLAs Neeraj Nayar, Dr. Hans Raj, D.S. Thakur, Dr. Janak Raj, District Agricultural Produce and Marketing Committee Chairman Lalit Thakur, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, Superintendent of Police Abhishek Yadav, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra, Municipal Councilors, officials of various departments and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
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