Himachal Day Celebrations: A First in Remote Pangi Valley
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Synopsis
For the first time in its history, Himachal Pradesh is celebrating Himachal Day in the isolated Pangi Valley of Chamba district, marking a significant event welcomed by locals and officials alike.
Key Takeaways
- First-ever Himachal Day celebration in Pangi Valley
- Historic visit by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu
- Support from local leaders and residents
- Focus on tribal welfare and development issues
- Preparations underway for a grand welcome
Shimla, April 13 (NationPress) In a historic move, Himachal Pradesh will host its state-level Himachal Day celebrations in the remote Pangi Valley of Chamba district on Monday. The event set to take place in Killar, the valley's administrative center, has stirred a sense of joy and festivity throughout the area.
Residents have enthusiastically embraced this initiative, praising the decision of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu to bring the celebration to this tribal region.
Describing the Chief Minister's visit as “historic”, Satish, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Killar (1), remarked that no prior government had ever hosted such a significant event in Pangi.
“The people of Pangi are prepared to welcome our Chief Minister with open arms,” he expressed. “The administration is diligently working to ensure every detail is perfectly arranged.”
Balbir, Pradhan of Kiryuni Gram Panchayat, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the CM’s ongoing efforts to reach out to tribal communities.
“We frequently see reports of his visits to remote areas of the state. His care for tribal populations is evident. This visit will shine a light on the development challenges faced by Pangi, and we are gearing up for a grand reception,” he noted.
Shiv Kumar, a resident of the area, commended the Chief Minister’s initiatives for tribal welfare.
“His visit shows a profound understanding of the difficulties we encounter. Within just over two years, he has accomplished much for tribal communities. We trust he will persist in alleviating our struggles,” he added.
Since taking office, the Congress government under Sukhvinder Sukhu has demonstrated a strong dedication to the welfare of tribal areas.
The inaugural Himachal Day celebration under his leadership was organized in Kaza of Spiti Valley, where the Chief Minister actively participated in local traditions and addressed community concerns.
Due to severe snowfall, the enchanting Pangi Valley remains inaccessible by road for over six months each year.
This stunning valley is primarily inhabited by Gaddis, who engage in pastoral activities and cultivate barley, potatoes, peas, and various off-season vegetables and rare flowers.
The district's climate is harsh, with much of the terrain classified as a cold desert, where temperatures can plummet below -20 degrees Celsius during winter.
In several hamlets, locals must trek over 10 km to access health facilities.
(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)
