Jhiri Mela with bolstered infra to promote cultural legacy: LG Sinha
Jammu, Nov 4: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Tuesday, while reiterating commitment of administration to work to enhance farmers’ income, asserted that the annual Jhiri Mela (fair), with bolstered infrastructure, would significantly contribute to promote the cultural legacy of the region.
He also emphasised that preserving cultural heritage was crucial for rapid economic growth.
Lieutenant Governor was responding to media queries after inaugurating annual Jhiri Mela (fair) at Marh sub-division in Jammu district.
“For the past five years, I have been visiting this historic Jhiri fair annually. Need was being felt for adequate arrangements for proper stay of devotees during the fair. Jammu district administration has made good arrangements to ensure comfortable stay of around 200 tourists (devotees) by constructing a spacious Yatri Niwas. Besides for the devotees, the Jammu administration will construct an indoor sports complex for which I’ve laid the foundation stone today,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He stated that the administration would make efforts to complete it as soon as possible so that the youth of Marh could get a platform to display their talent.
LG Sinha informed that for the pilgrims, particularly for the women, children and senior citizens, four modular bus stops were created.
“I believe that Jhiri Mela (fair) will definitely contribute significantly to carry forward and further promote the cultural legacy of the region. Baba Jitto made supreme sacrifice for the welfare of farmers. So I believe that the administration and all its officers will work with commitment to further the interests of farmers. It is utmost necessary to raise the income of farmers,” he said.
Earlier while addressing the gathering, LG Sinha said that cultural traditions, arts, crafts, and customs should be passed on to the younger generation through active participation in cultural-spiritual events and skill development that would open up employment opportunities as well.
“Community participation in governance should be ensured to promote accountability, improve service delivery, and foster a more inclusive and transparent governance to understand citizens’ needs and accordingly formulate new policies,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
While paying obeisance to Baba Jitto and Bua Kauri, he said, “Baba Jitto is a universal symbol of public welfare, transcending sectarian divides. His values of truth, non-violence, and brotherhood strengthen society and make the Jhiri Mela a celebration of multiculturalism and social harmony.” “I believe the real tribute to Baba Jitto is to ensure that benefits of government schemes reach every farmer,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor called upon the people to take a pledge to embrace the path of selfless- service and work towards a just and equal society as envisioned by Baba Jitto.
He also exhorted the officials and public representatives to work collectively to provide markets to local artisans, craftsmen, and traders.
“Together we can make a strong, secure, prosperous and self-reliant Jammu Kashmir,” he further said.
LG Sinha also praised the farming community of Jammu Kashmir for their resilience and contribution to the society and reaffirmed his commitment for their welfare. In this context, he particularly mentioned how the community rose again to make a forward movement even after suffering immense losses during ravaging floods and heavy-rains induced calamities in the month of August this year.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor dedicated a pilgrim community hall and 4 modular bus stops and laid foundation stone for the first 'Indoor Sports Complex' under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Marh sub-division.
He visited the stalls put up by the government departments, Agri-entrepreneurs, SHGs and farmers, and also felicitated progressive farmers. The event also featured vibrant cultural performances highlighting the rich culture and artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
The pilgrim community hall inaugurated today will continue to function as a dedicated Pilgrim Rest Hall throughout the year. It will also host religious, cultural, and community awareness programmes, making it a hub for social and spiritual engagement.
