SARGODHA: Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture (NH&C) Jamal Shah inaugurated on Thursday (18th Jan, 2024) the two-day National Citrus Festival, here at Sargodha Arts Council.
Jamal Shah said that National Heritage and Culture Division, in collaboration with the Government of Punjab, was organizing the National Citrus Festival on 18th and 19th of January.
He said Sargodha served as the perfect backdrop for a grand celebration of the nation’s diverse citrus heritage.
The minister said the festival would be crafted not only to showcase the economic and agricultural significance of citrus but also to promote social cohesion and a strong sense of national identity.
Jamal Shah said the festival aimed to attract visitors from across Pakistan, promoting national unity through shared cultural experiences.
He said that the festival provided a national platform for businesses, farmers, and artisans to showcase and sell citrus-related products, fostering economic growth and national resilience, thereby contributing to a more socially cohesive society.
Secretary National Heritage and Culture Humaira Ahmed said the festival aimed to conduct workshops, seminars and demonstrations to educate the public on citrus farming techniques, nutritional benefits and sustainable agricultural practices, reinforcing a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
In his welcome address, Commissioner Sargodha Division Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti highly praised National Heritage and Culture Division for organizing citrus festival in Sargodha.
He said that Sargodha was a major citrus producing city, thanks to its favorable weather conditions for growing the best quality kinnow.
This year, however, saw a drop in exports, he said and added that the ministry concerned should work on it to increase the export of kinnow.
Traditional music, dance and art performances from different regions of Pakistan would be part of the festival.
Display of various citrus varieties from different provinces was made, focusing on their unique characteristics, nutritional benefits, and regional importance, emphasizing the shared cultural heritage of the nation.
PNCA Puppet Theater, National Performing Arts Group, Lok Virsa Fazal Jutt and Awais Niazi performed on the occasion.
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