Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu went shopping at the International Lavi Fair-2024 at Rampur in Shimla district on Thursday evening, purchasing goods worth Rs 8,900.
After presiding over the closing ceremony of the International Lavi Fair-2024, CM Sukhu took out time to explore various stalls, displaying a special interest in local handicrafts and dry fruits.
Stopping at a handicraft stall, he engaged with a woman vendor, discussing her traditional products before purchasing a kilogram of walnuts and a ‘dohru’ (woollen blanket) for Rs 8,000 and Rs 900 respectively, using GooglePay to complete the transaction.
The Chief Minister remarked that fairs like International Lavi Fair-2024 not only celebrated culture, but also preserved and showcased the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh, promoting brotherhood and goodwill across communities.
He emphasised the state government’s commitment to boosting the rural economy through support for handloom and handicraft sectors, noting their role as symbols of Himachal’s cultural legacy. Over the past two years, his administration has implemented various initiatives aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, and he reaffirmed plans to expand these efforts in the future.
Presiding over the final cultural evening of the International Lavi Fair-2024, CM Sukhu also released a commemorative souvenir. Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap honored him with a traditional Himachali shawl and a cap. The evening was marked by vibrant performances by playback singers Mahalaxmi Iyer and Shriram Iyer, enchanting the audience.
During the event, CM Sukhu was honoured by employees now covered under the state’s restored old pension scheme. Other dignitaries in attendance included Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, APMC-Shimla Chairman Dev Anand Verma, Shimla zila parishad president Chandraprabha Negi, Congress leader Buddhi Singh Thakur, Rampur Nagar Parishad president Muskan and Shimla SP Sanjeev Gandhi.
