J&K Bank Chairman & CEO, Parvez Ahmed and IGP Kashmir Muneer Khan inaugurated Ramadan Night Market amid huge rounds of applause in presence of a large audience here at Kashmir Haat (Exhibition Ground).Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Secretary Tourism/ Education Farooq Ahmad Shah and Secretary Cultural Academy Dr Aziz Hajini besides senior management of J&K Bank and other police officials. A large number of locals also participated in the inaugural event.Chairman visited food stalls, handicraft kiosks, apparel boutiques and kids play zones at the event, organized by J&K Department of Culture.Speaking on the occasion, Parvez Ahmed said, “This is a very good initiative to start a culture of evening markets which can boost the income of shopkeepers and vendors here. These types of markets can be replicated at many other places so as to inspire and encourage people to develop a habit of night shopping”.
“After a hard day at work, such markets provide a space for social interaction among families besides creating avenues of entertainment for kids and youth”, he added.The evening market will remain open during the month of Ramadhan. People will be able to purchase different artifacts, handicrafts showcasing the local products of the state. There are also stalls with live sessions of artisans and interactive sessions like painting and art for kids as part of promotion of art and culture of the state.Special arrangements have been made for families wherein they can enjoy their meals and let their kids play in the arena.A musical program was also held on the occasion. The Academy of Art, Culture and Languages will be conducting concerts showcasing different types of qawallis.One of the main features of the night market is the mega lucky draw wherein different household appliances and motorbikes will be distributed among the winners every Saturday. (KNS)