Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday underlined the importance of preserving the cultural heritage for rapid economic growth as he inaugurated the 10-day annual Jhiri Mela on the outskirts of Jammu city.
Every year around 10-12 lakh devotees, mainly from Jammu region, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, visit the fair to commemorate the sacrifice of Baba Jittoo, who gave up his life in protest against the oppressive demands of a landlord about 500 years ago.
Speaking at the inauguration of Jhiri Mela, the LG urged people to take a pledge to embrace the path of selfless service and work towards building a just and equal society as envisioned by the 16th-century farmer-saint Baba Jittoo.
“Preserving cultural heritage is crucial for rapid economic growth,” the LG said , adding that cultural traditions, arts, crafts, and customs should be passed on to the younger generation through active participation in cultural-spiritual events and skill development that will open up employment opportunities as well.
“Community participation in governance should be ensured to promote accountability, improve service delivery, and foster a more inclusive and transparent governance to understand citizens’ needs and accordingly formulate new policies,” the LG said.
The LG paid obeisance to Baba Jitto and Bua Kauri. “Baba Jitto is a universal symbol of public welfare, transcending sectarian divides. His values of truth, non-violence, and brotherhood strengthen society and make the Jhiri Mela a celebration of multiculturalism and social harmony. I believe the real tribute to Baba Jitto is to ensure that benefits of government schemes reach every farmer,” he said.
According to an official press release, he also exhorted the officials and public representatives to work collectively to provide markets to local artisans, craftsmen, and traders.
“Together we can make a strong, secure, prosperous and self-reliant Jammu Kashmir,” he further said.
The LG also praised the farming community of Jammu Kashmir for their resilience and contribution to the society and reaffirmed his commitment for their welfare.
On the occasion, the LG dedicated a pilgrim community hall and 4 modular bus stops and laid foundation stone for the first ‘Indoor Sports Complex’ under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Marh Sub-Division.
He visited the stalls put up by the government departments, Agri-entrepreneurs, SHGs and farmers, and also felicitated progressive farmers. The event also featured vibrant cultural performances highlighting the rich culture and artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
The pilgrim community hall inaugurated today will continue to function as a dedicated Pilgrim Rest Hall throughout the year. It will also host religious, cultural, and community awareness programmes, making it a hub for social and spiritual engagement.
To improve transportation and ease of access for devotees, four modular bus stops have been constructed at Jhiri Chowk, Rajpura Chowk, Bawa Talab Chowk, and Kanachak Chowk. It will also strengthen the connectivity and accessibility to the Jhiri Temple and other adjoining rural clusters.
The Indoor Sports Complex in Marh Sub-Division is expected to be completed within four months, marking a new era for sports promotion and talent development in the area.The facility will include two Badminton Courts, dedicated Judo, Taekwondo, and Karate Rings, two Ten-Metre Air Rifle Shooting Ranges, two Table Tennis Tables, facilities for Chess and Carrom, a Reading Room and Recreation Zone.
Pertinently, hundreds of farmers and pilgrims from Jammu region, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana have already arrived to participate in the fair, which is being jointly organised by the Directorate of Tourism in collaboration with the district administration from November 4 to 13.
The Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture, along with the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), have extended full support to ensure sanitation, health facilities, parking, power, and water supply arrangements, the officials said.
The Agriculture department’s participation also serves as a vital platform to enhance farmers’ knowledge, exposure and engagement with new technologies and government schemes, while paying tribute to Baba Jittoo’s enduring legacy.
Security has been tightened with the deployment of police and paramilitary forces, they added.
According to legend, Baba Jittoo, a humble farmer, sacrificed his life in defiance of an unjust landlord’s exploitation. His daughter, Bua Kouri, later immolated herself on his funeral pyre in an act of devotion and grief.
Devotees also take a customary dip in Baba-da-Talab, a natural pond located about four kilometres from the temple, which is believed to possess curative powers, the officials said.
