Udhampur |: Member Legislative Assembly Udhampur West Pawan Kumar Gupta Tuesday inaugurated the three-day annual historic Sankri Devta mela here at village Meer- Panchari.
The inauguration was held amid drum beats and festivity in the presence of DDC Member Jasvir Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh, Mela Officer (Tehsildar Panchari) Vipan Kumar and other officers.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest congratulated the people and emphasized that such melas showcase the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage as well as play a vital role in strengthening brotherhood and communal harmony. He highlighted the importance of preserving traditional values and advocated for promoting the mela as an integral part of local culture.
He reiterated that such festivals bring together people of different faiths, communities and regions, fostering peace and unity in the society. The MLA also lauded the District Administration Udhampur for making elaborate and foolproof arrangements for the successful conduct of the event.
He appreciated the enthusiastic participation of local students in cultural programs and rural sports, wishing them success in their future endeavors. He also highlighted the welfare schemes launched by the Government, encouraging people to avail themselves of these benefits for their socio-economic upliftment.
The MLA also inspected stalls set up by different departments to spread awareness about government-sponsored schemes. He urged officers to make sincere and dedicated efforts to inform the public about these initiatives aimed at rural development.
The DDC Member Panchari-Moungri expressed gratitude to the district administration for their support in organizing the mela.
Later, the MLA paid obeisance at the revered Sankri Devta Temple, praying for peace, prosperity and well-being of the district.
The District Administration had made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the mela including the provision of uninterrupted power supply, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, medical assistance, security measures and a Police Control Room.
Numerous temporary sweet shops, toy stalls and food corners set up by local as well as outside vendors emerged as the main attractions for the general public.
The J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages and Department of Youth Services and Sports also organized rural sports and cultural activities with the active participation of school students from the area, adding vibrancy to the celebrations.
