PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the closing session of Sparsh Himalaya Mahotsav-2025 at Lekhak Gaon in Thano, Dehradun, on Wednesday. He offered prayers at the local temple and wished for peace in the State. Dhami said that the concept of Lekhak Gaon reflects ideas that guide society and help future generations stay connected to their roots. He said that the festival marks the beginning of a new journey of creative expression. Dhami said that the government is working to support literature and culture. He stated that the State provides Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman to honour literary figures and financial assistance for publishing books in various languages. The State also honours senior writers with Sahitya Bhushan and Lifetime Achievement awards, which carry prize money of up to Rs five lakh. Dhami said that the State conducts competitions and programmes to encourage interest in literature among the youth. He added that the government is working with commitment to strengthen Uttarakhand and cooperation from writers, artists, scholars and cultural contributors will help achieve this objective. He said that Lekhak Gaon is helping local talent and placing Uttarakhand on the global literary map, adding that the village will contribute to linking ancient traditions with present-day thought. Former CM Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, former Defence secretary Yogendra Narayan, Padma Shri Harmohinder Singh Bedi, Vidushi Nishank and others were present.
