Bhaderwah May 31: The Directorate of Tourism Jammu in collaboration with Bhaderwah Development Authority and District Administration Doda organised the maiden Foxglove Blooms Festival here at Noori Hanga village of Bhadarwah Valley.
The festival is celebrated to appreciate the beauty of a flowering plant commonly known as Foxglove (Digitalis). Digitalis or foxglove is native to Europe, western Asia and northwestern Africa. It is found in abundance in the forests of Bhadarwah Forest Division. It adds to the beauty of the local green lush forests. The flowers are tubular in shape produced on a tall spike and vary in colour from purple to pink, white and yellow. It is used in the treatment of congestive cardiac failure.
The event witnessed a large gathering of local people, students of various schools and Degree College Bhaderwah. During the program, the importance of this flowering plant was described in detail by Dr. Neeraj of Jammu University Campus Bhadarwah.
The event was inaugurated by DDC Chairman Dhanantar Singh. In his address, Dhanantar Singh appreciated the initiative taken by the Tourism Directorate, BDA and District Administration. He said that such events will attract a huge tourist footfall and thus enhance the business opportunities here. He also highlighted various schemes launched by the Central Government for the benefit of the common masses.
Other participants, including officers and public representatives also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of this wild plant.
The CEO BDA delivered a welcome address. He also highlighted the importance of celebrating this festival to attract tourists.
The event was made attractive and colourful with cultural activities performed by prominent singers like Ravi Thakur, Mool Raj Misher, Abid Bashir and Younis Sheikh. Folk Dance of Bhaderwah Dikku was also performed by the local public.
The event was attended by Vice Chairperson DDC Sangeeta Bhagat, DDC member Th. Yudhvir Singh, BDC chairman Omi Chand, ADC Bhaderwah Ch. Dil Mir, CEO BDA , C. O 4RR , ASP Bhadarwah and other officers, representatives of Tour and Travels Association and Beopar Mandal.
The day-long programme ended with the vote of thanks by the BDC chairman. He also extended his gratitude to the local Media Fraternity for making this celebration successful. He also thanked all the participants and expressed hope that the Department would hold such events in future too to promote the tourism potential of this region.
