TNR News Network
Dharamshala
Former Mayor of Dharamshala Municipal Corporation, Devendra Jaggi, announced that it is a moment of pride and historic significance for Kangra district as the Himachal Pradesh government has officially granted the Kangra Valley Carnival the status of a government festival. With the notification issued, the carnival will now be held regularly every year from December 24 to 31 at the Police Grounds in Dharamshala.
Jaggi noted that until now, the carnival was organised independently by the district administration, often facing budget constraints and irregular scheduling. At times it was held in September, sometimes in November, leaving tourists uncertain and limiting the grandeur of the event.
With government recognition, the festival will now enjoy assured funding and become a permanent feature of the state’s official annual calendar. Jaggi emphasized that fixing the dates from December 24 to 31 is a visionary decision, as this period coincides with Christmas and New Year, when large numbers of domestic and international tourists visit Dharamshala and the Kangra Valley. The carnival will serve as an additional and unique attraction for them.
He further stated that the event will give new momentum to tourism activities in Kangra district, directly benefiting hotels, taxi operators, restaurants, handicraft artisans, local traders, and self-employed individuals. The carnival, he said, will be a milestone in establishing Kangra as the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh.
Highlighting the attractions, Jaggi mentioned that the Kangra Valley Carnival will feature drone shows, fashion shows, vibrant cultural programs, marathons, sports competitions, a millet festival, and craft bazaars to promote local art and handicrafts. These events will showcase Himachal’s cultural heritage and talent on a national stage.
He credited Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s visionary leadership for this decision, noting that the government is consistently taking steps to strengthen Himachal’s economy, tourism, and public welfare. Jaggi also pointed out that holding the Himachal Pradesh Assembly’s winter session in Dharamshala in November was another strategic move, ensuring that local businesses benefit continuously in both November and December. “The government has prioritized grassroots economy and livelihoods over mere power politics,” he said.
