Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 11 Feb: Rural Development Minister Ganesh Joshi today chaired a review meeting at his camp office with officials of the Rural Development Department regarding preparations for the upcoming Saras Mela and Food Festival 2026.
During the meeting, Minister Ganesh Joshi directed officials to ensure that all necessary arrangements are completed in a timely manner for the successful holding of the 10-day Saras Mela to be held in Udham Singh Nagar district from 14 to 23 February, as well as the seven-day Food Festival proposed in Champawat district from 18 to 24 February.
On the occasion, the Minister also reviewed the progress of the “House of Himalayas” brand. Departmental officials informed him that the brand, which markets Uttarakhand products prepared by women from hill regions, has achieved remarkable success by recording sales of over Rs 3.5 crore within just two years of its launch. They further stated that, in the near future, House of Himalayas products will also be made available in international markets, creating new employment opportunities for local women.
Minister Joshi said that the State Government is continuously working toward strengthening rural livelihoods, women empowerment, and providing national and international recognition to local products.
Additional Secretary, Rural Development, Jharna Kamthan, along with other officials, was also present on the occasion.
