In a strong push for sustainable and inclusive growth, Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has emphasized the promotion of rural tourism to boost the state’s village economy and showcase its rich cultural heritage. During his recent visit to Pukhri village near Khajjiar in Chamba district, the Governor praised the area’s scenic beauty, cleanliness, and thriving community-run homestay models. His visit coincided with the International Minjar Fair 2025, where he highlighted the vast potential of rural tourism in generating livelihoods and preserving the ecological balance of hill regions. Commending the efforts of the Chamba district administration and the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department, Governor Shukla said that villages like Pukhri offer tourists a healthy, immersive experience rooted in local traditions and lifestyle. Stressing the importance of responsible tourism, he called on all stakeholders to maintain cleanliness, protect the environment, and support the development of essential infrastructure. The Governor also noted the need for better road connectivity and transport services to remote villages, assuring that he would raise these issues with the Central Government and the Ministry of Forests to eliminate policy hurdles. On the sidelines of the fair, an MoU was signed between the Chamba district administration and ICRT India Foundation to promote sustainable tourism and develop lesser-known destinations in the region. Governor Shukla and First Lady Janaki Shukla were warmly welcomed with traditional folk music and cultural performances, reinforcing the state’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a key tool for rural empowerment.
