Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said that the tribal areas of the state have rich culture, traditions and customs. He expressed happiness that the people of the area have maintained their identity and was impressed by the culture. The Governor was speaking on the occasion of a cultural program organized in his honour at Kaza in Lahaul-Spiti today. He said that after visiting the area, he has realised that Himachal resides in remote areas. He will try to visit every district of the state and meet the people. He said that this would not only help him understand the culture of Himachal but would also be able to know the problems of the people. He said that some Lahaul residents have also apprised him of their problems and he will make every possible effort to resolve them. He said that there is immense potential for tourism in tribal areas, as there were attractive mountains, Buddhist culture and clean environment. He said that the promotion of planned tourism activities would also increase economic activities.The Governor enjoyed the folk dance performance of the local artists on the occasion. Lady Governor Anagha Arlekar was also present.
Earlier, ADM Mohan Dutt honoured the Governor and Lady Governor by presenting them traditional attires. Later, the Governor also held a meeting with the local administration and inquired about the various activities being implemented by the State Government. He said that the State Government has implemented many schemes for the tribal areas and the benefits of these schemes should reach the eligible persons. The Governor also visited Langcha, Kaumik and Hikkim villages and interacted with the local people. He distributed gas connection and stoves to Tsering Dolma and Gatuk Chodan in Langcha under Himachal Grihini Suvidha Yojna.On this occasion, the Governor said that Himachal Grihini Suvidha Yojna has played an important role in protecting women from indoor smoke. In the last three years, the state government has provided free gas connections to 3.17 lakh women under this scheme in the state and as a result of this, Himachal Pradesh was declared as smoke free state in December 2019. He said that Himachal was the first state in the country to achieve such a feat. He urged to the people to avail benefit of the scheme.The Governor also visited Tabo and Kee-Gompa.