Governor Kavinder Gupta Calls for Making Chamba an Inspirational District at Self-Reliant India Expo

Chamba, October 24: Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Saturday called for promoting sustainable development, local entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for youth while addressing the second day of the three-day *Atmanirbhar Bharat – Third Destination Himachal Expo 2026* at the historic Chowgan ground in Chamba.

The event was organised in collaboration with Avishkar Sanstha, with Kangra-Chamba MP Dr. Rajiv Bharadwaj presiding over the programme. The Governor and Lady Governor Bindu Gupta were welcomed by the organisers, and dignitaries visited stalls showcasing technologies, products and initiatives from around 20 Central ministries and departments, along with the Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh governments.

Bharadwaj said his vision was to transform Chamba from an aspirational district into an inspirational district that could serve as a model for the country. He highlighted the region’s rich cultural heritage, including Chamba rumal, Chamba thal and traditional Chamba footwear, and stressed the need to create employment opportunities for local youth.

The MP said the expo featured institutions including ISRO, CSIR, the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the National Skill Development Corporation, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the Geological Survey of India, ICMR, BIS, Tribes India and AYUSH. He said the initiative aimed to bring government schemes, scientific advancements and development opportunities closer to people in remote areas.

Addressing the gathering, Gupta said Chamba’s historic temples, folk traditions, woodcraft and traditional handicrafts made it an important cultural destination. He congratulated Bharadwaj and the organising team for bringing a national-level exhibition to the geographically challenging region.

The Governor said the vision of a developed India by 2047 could be achieved only when development reached remote villages and disadvantaged sections of society. He emphasised economic empowerment for women, improved agricultural productivity, expanded market access for local enterprises and greater opportunities for young people.

Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s potential in tourism, horticulture, medicinal plants and rural enterprise, Gupta called for promoting village-based, cultural, religious and adventure tourism alongside homestays. He also stressed the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection, particularly in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan region.

The Governor urged exhibitors and officials to engage with local youth and artisans and provide training in modern packaging, branding, digital marketing and skill development. He expressed hope that the expo would encourage young people to become job creators and contribute to building a self-reliant India.