The North News
Chandigarh, February 11
Punjab is enhancing its tourism sector with major investments in cultural preservation and heritage restoration, Tourism Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond said on Tuesday. The state has allocated approximately ₹73 crore for the modernization and revival of historical sites in 2024, Sond said, highlighting initiatives such as the restoration of the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum and the Saragarhi Museum.
Punjab’s festival calendar has also expanded, with events like the Basant Mela and the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics drawing global visitors. The upcoming Patiala Heritage Festival, from February 13 to February 16, will feature heritage walks, food festivals, music events, and a fashion walk, Sond added. The government has also prioritised Sikh heritage preservation, including the restoration of Jahaz Haveli, the historic residence of Dewan Todar Mall in Fatehgarh Sahib.
Recognising Punjab’s efforts, Nawanpind Sardaran in Gurdaspur was named India’s Best Tourism Village 2023, and Hansali Farmstay in Fatehgarh Sahib won top honors in the Agri-Tourism category in 2024.
