PNS | DEHRADUN
The governor, lieutenant general (retd) Gurmit Singh said that more than three lakh visitors are expected to attend Vasantotsav this year, which will take place at Raj Bhawan from March 7 to 9. He said this during a curtain-raiser programme organised on Monday.
Singh stated that Vasantotsav is not only regarded as an event but also as a festival, and it is organised at Raj Bhawan every year. Many people eagerly await this event, looking forward to it. The event showcases culture, environmental themes and various other elements. This year, it will be held at Raj Bhawan from March 7 and will continue until March 9. Singh said that the event provides economic opportunities for those who set up stalls. Last year, the event attracted about three lakh visitors and more than three lakh visitors are anticipated this year.
He added that new elements have been introduced to attract visitors. Among the highlights is a cut flower competition, with producers and farmers from the nine districts participating in non-traditional categories. For the first time, a separate competition category will be organised for women flower producers under the cut flower competition. This year, for the first time, there is an opportunity for all interested participants who grow vegetables, leafy vegetables and exotic vegetables in pots to participate under the category “Vegetables,” instead of just “Vegetables under Rooftop Gardening”.
Singh said that a special postal cover of Jatamansi will be released for the event, alongside literature emphasising the importance of Jatamansi, which will be published and distributed. In an effort to promote hydroponic technology and encourage gardening using hydroponic methods, a competition will be organised in this area as well. A painting competition for children aged 5 to 12 and 12 to 18 years will also take place.
Singh emphasised that approximately 35 departments will participate in the event, including universities, research institutes and others. He also added that March 8 is dedicated to Women’s Day. Considering this, the celebration of women’s days will also be part of the event on the said day. GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology will have a dedicated stall to showcase their research at the event. This initiative is aimed at contributing to the vision of a developed Bharat by 2047. Singh said that 15 competitions will be held, with a total of 165 prizes to be distributed on March 9 during the event.
