- January 31, 2019
- Posted by: Kinley Wangmo
- Category: News
Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering, Lyonpo Karma D. Wangdi, Minister for Information and Communications and Lyonpo Yeshey Penjor, Minister for Agriculture and Forests attended the 2nd Foothills Festival in Gelephu, Sarpang from 29-30th January, 2019.
The second edition of the event saw programs slated for entire two days with display of varieties of livestock, agriculture, horticulture and food items along with entertainment programs from the 12 gewogs of Sarpang.
At the 2-day event, Lyonchhen conveyed the greeting of His Majesty the King and congratulated the people for the second edition of the Foothills Festival. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives which boosts the local farmers and producers to exhibit and market their produces.
Lyonchhen assured that the government welcomes such initiatives which supports and encourages the local market production. He added that agencies and organizations should support such initiatives of boosting the essence of community vitality while promoting our indigenous culture and tradition.
Sarpang Dzongdag Karma Galay in his welcome address highlighted that the main objective of the festival is to encourage farmers for commercial production of food grains, vegetables and livestock produce while developing market linkages for the products and enhancing income generation & self-employment.
The day 1 event saw the 42kms marathon for males and 21.09kms marathon for females; Male and Female Nyagoe (Strong men and Strong women) competition; pillow fight; adventure part initiative by Scouts and other entertainment programs.
The closing ceremony on 30th January, 2019 saw cross-country bike race (75kms), walkathon (1km) for elderly citizens; cultural events and other entertainment programs.