Minister says preserving traditional fairs is essential to pass cultural heritage to future generations
Shimla, September 17, 2026: Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Aniruddh Singh attended the Saiyar Fair at Talai in Mashobra, under the Kasumpti Assembly constituency, as the chief guest and called for sustained efforts to preserve the state’s traditional fairs and cultural heritage.
Singh offered prayers at the Bhadrakali Mata Temple at Talai before interacting with residents and fair organisers. He congratulated people attending the fair and said Himachal Pradesh’s diverse culture, languages, folk dances, music, handicrafts and traditions give the state its distinct identity.
He said the Saiyar Fair is celebrated with enthusiasm across Himachal Pradesh and has traditionally been associated with Jhoton Dangal. However, the traditional event was discontinued in compliance with directions of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. He added that the Saiyar Fair also marks the beginning of the harvest season in several areas.
“It is our duty to keep such traditional fairs alive so that future generations can learn about and preserve the cultural heritage, traditions and practices of the past,” Singh said.
Focus on panchayat development, women’s empowerment
The minister said the state government has been working on strengthening panchayats and promoting women’s empowerment. He said several initiatives have been introduced to improve facilities in panchayats and help women become more organised and economically self-reliant.
Highlighting development works in the Kasumpti constituency, Singh said four roads had been approved under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, including one in Mashobra Gram Panchayat.
He said more than 150 Forest Rights Act (FRA) cases had so far been approved in the constituency for works including panchayat and community buildings, roads, school buildings and bridges. He added that formalities were being completed for construction of smaller roads in panchayat areas based on local demands.
Singh said several development works had been undertaken in the Mashobra panchayat area during the past three-and-a-half years.
Talai to be promoted as tourism destination
Describing Talai as a scenic location, Singh said efforts would be made to develop the area from a tourism perspective. He said the matter would be taken up with the state government to give Talai greater recognition and promote tourism in the region.
Fair Committee president Balak Ram Verma welcomed the minister and briefed him about the various activities being organised during the fair.
The gram panchayat representatives also placed their demands before the minister, who assured them that the issues would be considered and addressed.
The fair featured cultural programmes and a kabaddi competition, in which 18 teams from different parts of the district participated.
