Technical Education Minister Inaugurates State-Level Tsechu Fair at Rewalsar, Announces Master Plan for Beautification.
Shimla:
The Technical Education Minister, Rajesh Dharmani, today inaugurated the much-awaited three-day State-Level Tsechu Fair at Rewalsar, Mandi district, in celebration of the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. This religious and cultural event, which holds great significance for the region, marks the beginning of the annual fair that draws visitors from various parts of the state and beyond.
Announcement of Master Plan for Rewalsar’s Beautification.
During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Dharmani unveiled a major initiative aimed at transforming Rewalsar into a prominent religious and tourist destination. He announced the development of a comprehensive Master Plan for the beautification of the area, which is expected to be completed within three months. The plan will focus on upgrading infrastructure and improving essential services, including better facilities for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Government Welfare Initiatives Highlighted.
In his address, Minister Dharmani expressed gratitude to the state government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, for its numerous welfare initiatives. He highlighted the substantial increase in honorariums for public representatives and a rise in wages for workers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to Rs. 300 per day.
The Minister also spoke about the government’s historic decision to raise the support price for cow and buffalo milk to Rs. 45 and Rs. 55, respectively. He further emphasized the state’s commitment to natural farming, with the government purchasing crops grown through organic methods, including a Rs. 30 support price for maize produced using natural farming techniques.
In recognition of the government’s focus on women’s welfare, Dharmani shared that women in the state are receiving Rs. 1,500 under various social security schemes.
Promoting Religious Harmony and Guru Padmasambhava’s Legacy.
Rewalsar, known for its spiritual significance among three different faiths, is home to the Tsechu Fair, a symbol of religious harmony. Minister Dharmani reflected on the importance of Guru Padmasambhava, who is credited with spreading Buddhism across Tibet and Bhutan, leaving a lasting impact on the region’s spiritual landscape.
Government’s Welfare and Empowerment Initiatives.
The Minister took the opportunity to commend the initiatives launched by Chief Minister Sukhu’s government aimed at improving the lives of the people. These include the Sukhashray Yojana, Rajiv Gandhi Start-up Scheme, Rajiv Gandhi Natural Farming Start-up Scheme, and the Indira Gandhi Girl Child Safety Scheme, among others. Additionally, Dharmani underscored the government’s efforts to promote women’s empowerment, particularly through schemes designed to uplift widows and single women.
Commitment to Quality Education.
In line with the government’s focus on education, Dharmani reiterated the state’s plans to establish Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding Schools in all legislative assembly constituencies, ensuring quality education for the youth and contributing to overall development.
Recognition for Special Needs Children.
A touching moment during the event was the recognition of children with special needs from the Day Care Center in Bhangrotu, who performed a dance during the cultural segment of the fair. Minister Dharmani presented them with a prize of Rs. 21,000 in recognition of their talent and dedication.
Cultural Celebrations and Dignitaries’ Participation.
The fair featured a variety of cultural performances, including performances by Mahila Mandals, Anganwadi children, and workers. The event was attended by several prominent figures, including APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria, former Minister Prakash Chaudhary, SDM and Mela Committee President Smritika Negi, Rewalsar Municipal Council President Sunita Gupta, and Lower Rewalsar Gram Panchayat Pradhan Kaushalya Devi.
Closing Remarks.
Minister Dharmani concluded his speech by reaffirming the state government’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring a prosperous future for all. He also blamed the previous BJP-led government for the financial mismanagement that had hindered the state’s progress in the past.
The three-day Tsechu Fair at Rewalsar continues to be a celebration of faith, culture, and community, drawing both pilgrims and tourists to the area.
