Panaji: August 12, 2016 …. Union Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar inaugurated the week long Independence Day Celebrations under the cultural programme of the “Bharat Parv”, an initiative of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India at Rajpath Lawn, India Gate in New Delhi today.
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister for Tourism Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Col. Rajvardhan Singh Rathore and Minister for Culture, Government of Delhi Shri Kapil Sharma.
The event being organized to mark India’s 70 Independence Day will conclude on August 18, 2016. In all 17 states including Goa are participating in Bharat Parv which is aimed at creating patriotic mood, ensure large participation of general public and to showcase rich diversity of our country.
As far as Goa is concerned about 45 folk artists including the celebrity artist Sonia Sirsat will perform at the venue on August 15, 2016, under the Directorate of Art and Culture. The rich cultural traditions of Goa will be showcased with presentation of varied forms of art.
The Tourism Department has participated in the event depicting Goa as a tourist destination for all seasons.
The Department of Information and Publicity which is the coordinating Department for the participation of Goa state, has showcased the progress and development of Goa including welfare schemes of the Government by way of audio video presentation. Similarly, handicraft items and traditional goan cuisine will attract the visitors at the goan stall.
Delivering the inaugural address Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism in organizing the event in the national capital. He said this initiative will undoubtedly go a long way in maintaining the prevailing unity in diversity in the country and to bring together people from different parts of the country irrespective of caste, creed and religion thus strengthening national integration. He said, during the next six days Delhites and people from across the country will get the opportunity to witness variety of entertainment programmes and cultural diversity of the country.
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Venkaiah Naidu in his address stressed the need to preserve the rich cultural heritage inherited by us from our forefathers. Remembering the immense contribution of our great icons who fought for the freedom of our country the Union Minister said, we need to preserve our tradition by respecting our elders, teachers and parents to foster national unity.
Earlier Shri Vinod Mishra, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism welcomed the guests.
Thereafter the Defence Minister along with other dignitaries visited various stalls set up by the different states including Goa and evinced keen interest in the art, culture, handicraft and cousine which has been displayed at the venue
