Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, October 3
Himachal Pradesh Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh has said that Panchayati Raj elections are likely to be held between 15 and 20 December, with preparations already underway.
Singh expressed confidence that candidates backed by the Congress party would secure victory, despite the elections not being contested on party symbols. He said the Congress would maintain its influence even without a strong organisational structure, as its supported candidates were expected to gain a decisive edge.
The minister was speaking in Shimla, where he inaugurated a five-day Grameen Swaad Mahotsav at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. Singh said the festival aims to strengthen the rural economy, with self-help groups showcasing and selling traditional Himachali dishes and products.
The event, which runs until 7 October, features local delicacies such as kode ke siddu, kabdu mash ke bhalle, cholai ki kheer, seb ki barfi, among others. Singh said both tourists and local residents would benefit from the initiative.
