Diwali Festival “Udaan” in Dharampur to Showcase Kodra Millet Sweets.
Shimla:
The upcoming Diwali festival in the Dharampur subdivision promises to be a sweet celebration, featuring a variety of innovative sweets crafted by local farmers’ groups. The Farmers Producers Organisation (FPO) will host a two-day festival titled “Udaan” on October 28-29 at Dr. Vijay Memorial Public School.
In preparation, the FPO has produced 30 quintals of traditional Kodra millet laddus, alongside an array of other sweets including burfi, peda, apple laddus, chutneys, and jams from five different centers. Focusing on fresh sweets made without milk or khoya, the FPO has conducted training sessions led by Dr. Kavita from the Agricultural Science Center and food safety expert Dr. Hardayal Singh Guleria to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
The largest production will occur at the Sakhoth-Taddun-Khanod center, set to create 12 quintals of sweets, while other centers such as Taniar will contribute 7 quintals, and Jodhan-1, Jodhan-2, and Baroti will each add 5 quintals.
Local leaders like Rajni Saklani, Nirmala Pathania, Kamla, and Yogita are spearheading the sweet-making efforts. FPO President Satpal Chauhan and Secretary Bhupender Singh highlighted that this initiative not only supports the local FPO but also sets a precedent for future projects.
The festival will be inaugurated by Dharampur MLA Chander Shekhar, with various dignitaries expected to attend. Additionally, on October 30 and 31, mobile vans will distribute these sweets to regions including Sandhol, Tihra, Chalthra, and more, ensuring accessibility for all residents.
The FPO encourages the community to support this initiative by choosing these fresh sweets, contributing to rural development led by women’s groups in the area. With a focus on community engagement and local entrepreneurship, the Diwali festival in Dharampur is set to be a vibrant celebration.