Governor Acharya Devvrat said that Himachal Pradesh is called as Dev Bhoomi and increase of drugs in Dev Bhoomi is a matter of great concern. Therefore it is necessary for all of us to work together to make Himachal a drug free State He was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the four-days Lavi Mela in Rampur today.Acharya Devvrat said that drug addiction is spreading in the Dev Bhoomi and the younger generation is coming in its grip, which is a matter of great concern for all of us. He said that "effective steps have been taken in this direction with the help of the government and police administration, but we all need to work together in this direction". He said that drug addiction is not a problem confined to a family, but it is a social evil which is ruining the future generation of the country. He said that illegal activities such as drug abuse and gambling takes place under the guise of festivals and fairs which should be stopped so that the significance and relevance of these festivals can be maintained.
The Governor said that international Lavi Mela is important from historical point of view, which is not only known for business activities but also mythological traditions.He said that this festival plays an important role in preserving its rich cultural heritage of state as well as country.On this occasion the Governor called upon the people to move forward in the direction of natural farming.
He said that the state government has made a provision of Rs. 25 crore for promoting natural farming, which is a positive initiative towards poison-free farming. He apprised the people of the consequences of chemical farming and said that by using excessive chemicals, we have made our land barren and the food grains and fruits which are being produced by using these chemicals are adversely affecting our health. This is the reason that many incurable diseases have arisen today. He said that after the chemical farming, the organic farming which has been called for adoption is not less fatal than chemical farming, the cost of farming also increases in the first three years and there is less agricultural production also. He said that by adopting natural farming today we can not only increase the fertility of our soil but water consumption can be reduced and it is also an environment friendly agriculture. This will eliminate the initial cost of farmer and the income will be doubled.He said that natural farming is based on Indian breed cows and by adopting this farming we can also protect the cows of local breed. He urged the people to understand the usefulness of local breed cows and therefore not to leave them on roads but instead work for the improvement of their breed.
The Governor congratulated the people for the International Lavi Fair and appreciated the comprehensive arrangements of the district administration.Earlier, the Governor inaugurated exhibitions of various departments at Lavi Fair. He showed keen interest in the items being sold in the Kinnauri market.Chief Whip and MLA Narender Bragta while welcoming the Governor on this occasion said that under his guidance the state government is promoting natural farming in a big way so that farmers and orchardists can get benefitted. He said that natural farming is an alternative method in front of us and we should adopt it to make our future better and secure. He said that meaningful results of Jan Manch Program started by the State Government have emerged as a strong platform where the problems of people are being redressed on the spot. He said that the state government is endeavoring for the welfare of the people and under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and the Central Government is providing liberal financial assistance to the state for various developmental projects.MLA Nand Lal also welcomed the Governor.Deputy Commissioner, Shimla and President of Lavi Mela Organizing Committee Amit Kashyap, honoured the Governor and welcomed him. He gave information about the various activities of the fair on this occasion.MLA Kishori Lal and other dignitaries were present on this occasion.