Preparations Underway for the International Minjar Fair in Chamba

Chamba Gears Up for the International Minjar Fair

Subhash Mahajan

Chamba

The International Minjar Fair, a prominent cultural event in Himachal Pradesh, is set to commence in Chamba, showcasing its rich traditions. On July 30, 2026, Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the Fair Committee, Mukesh Repaswal, conducted a thorough inspection of the fairgrounds, emphasizing the administration's dedication to ensuring safety, cleanliness, and effective management for the anticipated influx of visitors.

Thorough Inspection of Fairgrounds

DC Repaswal examined the fair venue from Chowgan No. 1 to Chowgan No. 4, carefully assessing arrangements in various sectors. His inspection prioritized:

• Security measures to protect attendees.


• Sanitation and hygiene throughout the fairgrounds.


• Traffic management and crowd control to avoid congestion.


• Removal of encroachments to facilitate visitor movement.


• Fire safety readiness with operational equipment and vehicles.


• Food safety and quality standards at stalls and eateries.

He stressed the importance of reflecting Chamba’s cultural pride while adhering to modern safety and hospitality standards.

Measures Against Encroachment

During his visit, DC Repaswal instructed SDM Chamba, Chirag Sharma, to ensure that no encroachments occur in the fair area or Chamba’s main market. He insisted that any existing encroachments be cleared immediately to maintain smooth pedestrian flow and avoid disruptions during the fair.

Focus on Sanitation and Cleanliness

The Deputy Commissioner directed Municipal Council officials to implement enhanced sanitation protocols. Key points included:

• Regular maintenance of public toilets.


• Consistent garbage collection and disposal.


• Deployment of sanitation personnel across the fairgrounds.


• Ensuring a clean and visually appealing environment for visitors.

He reiterated that cleanliness is crucial not only for public health but also for upholding the cultural dignity of the International Minjar Fair.

Fire Safety Preparedness

The Fire Department received instructions to ensure all vehicles, equipment, and resources are fully operational. The DC emphasized the need for the department to remain vigilant and ready to respond to any emergencies promptly.

Ensuring Food Safety and Quality

The Food Safety Department was assigned to carry out regular inspections of hotels, dhabas, restaurants, and food stalls during the fair. DC Repaswal instructed officials to enforce strict adherence to hygiene standards and food quality regulations to protect the health of attendees.

Review of Police Security Arrangements

The Deputy Commissioner also assessed the security measures implemented by the Police Department. At the Fair Control Room, he reviewed:

• CCTV surveillance systems for real-time monitoring.


• Communication networks for inter-department coordination.


• Crowd management strategies to prevent disorder.


• Traffic control plans to manage vehicle flow.


• Emergency preparedness protocols for unexpected incidents.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Chamba, Vijay Singh Saklani, briefed him on police deployment, traffic regulation, and control room operations.

Inter-Departmental Coordination

DC Repaswal instructed various departments, including Jal Shakti (Water Supply), Electricity Board, Health, Transport, and others, to ensure uninterrupted services. Key directives included:

• Provision of adequate drinking water.


• Reliable electricity supply throughout the fairgrounds.


• Visitor parking facilities.


• Availability of first-aid centers and ambulances.


• Proper maintenance of public toilets.

He emphasized the importance of inter-departmental collaboration and regular reviews to promptly address any issues.

Support for Self-Help Groups

Before concluding his inspection, the DC visited stalls and exhibitions organized by Self-Help Groups (SHGs). He commended their involvement, highlighting that such initiatives empower local communities and showcase Chamba’s rich handicrafts and traditional products.

Presence of Key Officials

The inspection was attended by senior officials, including:

• SP Chamba Vijay Singh Saklani


• Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra


• Additional Superintendent of Police Dinesh Sharma


• Assistant Commissioner Manmohan Singh


• SDM Chamba Chirag Sharma


• District Revenue Officer Vikramjeet Singh


• Deputy Superintendent of Police Mayank Sharma


• Senior Executive Officer Rakhi Kaushal


• DFSC Karan


• Nazir, DC Office Parveen Mehta

Their presence underscored the collective effort of the district administration to ensure the fair’s success.

Cultural and Administrative Importance

The International Minjar Fair is not just a cultural event but also a representation of Chamba’s heritage. It draws thousands of visitors, including dignitaries, tourists, and locals. The DC’s inspection and directives demonstrate the administration’s commitment to merging tradition with modern governance, ensuring that the fair remains a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for everyone.

Conclusion

As the International Minjar Fair 2026 approaches, the Chamba administration, led by DC Mukesh Repaswal, has shown proactive leadership. By addressing security, sanitation, food safety, and inter-departmental coordination, the district is poised to host one of Himachal Pradesh’s most iconic cultural events with efficiency and pride. The directives issued today are expected to enhance the fair’s management, uphold public safety, and improve the visitor experience, reaffirming Chamba’s status as a center of tradition, hospitality, and cultural vibrancy.