Manali hosts 3-day 'Apple Festival'

MANALI: The three-day 'Apple Festival' got off to a start here on Tuesday with the aim of boosting tourism in the area.
    
Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal inaugurated the festival, flagging off a children's apple rally.
    
In his address, Dhumal said over 75,000 apple cartons had already been sent to markets across the country from the state.
    
He said the state government has always been sensitive to the problems of apple cultivators and the state has enhanced support price of apple and citrus fruits.     

Dhumal also launched the Home stay tourism scheme, handing over the first registration certificate under the programme to one Swaroop Upadhya, a resident of Katrain village in Kullu valley.
    
Different competitions -- Apple painting, Apple Prince and Apple Princess and best dressed married couple -- are included in the festival.
    
State Horticulture Minister Narendra Bragta was also present on the  occasion.
    
Dhumal said the state government was likely to spend Rs 180 crore for the provision of essential commodities being made available to about 14.5 lakh ration card holders of the state on subsidised rates.