KARGIL, FEBRUARY 18, 2021: Executive Councillor for Tourism Er Phunsok Tashi underlined the need for preservation of culture and promotion of tourism in Shakar Chiktan.

The EC stated this while addressing at the concluding ceremony of the Ladakh Winter Carnival, 2021 at the historic Chiktan Shagaran here today.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Kargil Tsering Motup, Councillor Chiktan Mohsin Ali, Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Shakar Chiktan Kacho Asgar Ali Khan, Chairperson Block Development Council (BDC) Sayeda Banoo, Sarpanchs, Panchs besides sub divisional officers and hundreds of locals were present on the occasion.

EC Er Phunsok Tashi on behalf of the CEC Kargil congratulated the departments, organizations and artists for successfully conducting the 3 day event. He said that such events are significant in attracting tourists in the region.

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After the allocation of UT status, the Administration is providing much attention towards promotion of culture, winter sports and tourism, added Tashi.

EC Tashi further said that the Administration is looking forward to take all necessary steps for tourism promotion in Shakar Chiktan which is historically a significant place.He also assured to take necessary steps in preservation of Chiktan Razi Khar which is after the Leh Palace, significant than all other historical sites.He added that the LAHDC Kargil is committed towards the preservation of historically important sites, identification of trekking routes and promotion of winter sports in the district and concrete measures are being taken to achieve this goal.

While congratulating the people of Shakar Chiktan for their rich culture, communal harmony and advancement in education, Tashi urged the local artists to work hard in preservation of cultural attire, folklore, dance forms and other related aspects.

Councillor Mohsin Ali in his address appreciated the efforts of DC Kargil, LAHDC Kargil, District Youth Services and Sports Department Kargil, Ladakh Tourism Department Kargil, Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Kargil, Shakar Chiktan Tourism Development Committee, Ladakh Olympic Association, Archery Association of Ladakh, Kargil Ice and Snow Sports Club, Cultural and Educational Welfare Association Chiktan and Snow Storm Chiktan in making the event successful. He said that this event is the first ever of its kind in the history of Shakar Chiktan. He also projected demand to the EC Tourism for taking initiatives for identification of a trekking route in the area and allocation of funds for preservation and reconstruction of Chiktan Razi Khar.

SDM Shakar Chiktan Kacho Asgar Ali Khan in his address congratulated the District Administration Kargil, other organizers, artists, and folk artists for making this event a successful one.

Earlier, the BDC Chairperson Sayeda Banoo while delivering the welcome speech presented a 19 points memorandum.

Pertinently, more than 25 archery teams and 150 folk artists of the Balti, Purgi, Shina Dardi and Aryan Dardi folk artists participated in the 3 day carnival which has been held with the objective to give impetus to tourism in Shakar Chiktan area besides to preserve and promote the rich local culture and heritage.

Colorful traditional music and dance performances were presented by the folk artists on the occasion while several traditional and modern archery matches were also played.

Meanwhile, in the final match, Anjuman e Hussaini Hagnis won over TGA Panikhar.

Later, the EC and other guests gave away trophies and prizes to the participating players.