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Surajkund festival opens; nation's rich heritage on display

Staff Reporter

Tourism has key role in economic development: Ambika Soni

SURAJKUND (Haryana): Stating that tourism played an important part in the economic development of the country, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni on Wednesday said both Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and United Progressive Alliance Chairperson Sonia Gandhi had laid stress on giving a fillip to tourism.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 20th edition of "Surajkund Crafts Mela-2006" here at Faridabad, Ms. Soni said a crafts mela -- on the lines of this fair -- should also be held in Maharashtra.

"Just like Maharashtra is the theme State at this year's Mela, similarly Maharashtra should also host a crafts mela with Haryana as the theme State. We want craft melas to show the rich diversity of every State," added Ms. Soni.

Informing that it was the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's dream to showcase the rich culture and diversity of every State at the Surajkund Mela, Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilas Rao Deshmukh said: "For the past 20 years, the Mela is being held annually. Through its cultural extravaganza, the fair fosters national integration as every State gets an opportunity to showcase its rich art, culture and food habits. As Maharashtra is the theme State, every region of our State will showcase its culture, handicrafts and food habits."

Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said the SAARC countries such as Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan were also participating this year.

This year's cultural calendar includes a mosaic of handicrafts, handlooms, music, theatre, folk dances and food. More than 350 artisans and weavers selected from across the country are showcasing the country's rich heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, Women and Child Development Minister Renuka Chowdhury said the actual profile of tourism was economic development and this sector provided an opportunity to every section of society to earn its livelihood.

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