Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Muhammad Aurangzeb Khichi, reviewed ongoing developmental initiatives at Lok Virsa and emphasized enhancing tourism, promoting traditional arts, and ensuring cleanliness and sanitation to boost Pakistan’s cultural image.
Executive Director of Lok Virsa, Dr. Waqas, briefed the minister thoroughly about progress on current development programs at the institution. During their meeting, detailed discussions took place on various projects designed to increase visitor engagement and improve overall visitor experience. New initiatives included cultural imagery displays as well as fresh programs aimed at promoting arts and crafts.
Dr. Waqas informed that arts and crafts classes have recently commenced at Lok Virsa, adding that dance and music classes will also be launched very soon. Minister Khichi emphasized the importance of cleanliness, specifically highlighting the necessity for maintaining hygiene standards in restroom and food preparation areas. Citing cleanliness as integral to faith and civic responsibility, he stressed that improved cleanliness will attract more tourists and project a positive representation of Pakistan.
In a push to encourage the younger generation to explore and embrace their cultural heritage, the minister recommended holding competitions in musicography, fine arts, handicrafts, and traditional truck art specifically targeting youth under the age of twenty. Winners of such competitions will be given appropriate awards. Furthermore, he announced similar music competitions to be held at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA).
Minister Khichi explained that such targeted initiatives will not only promote the institutions but also breathe new life into sectors of traditional culture that are currently struggling or diminishing in public prominence. Additionally, the meeting extensively reviewed preparations for forthcoming cultural events aligned with the celebrations of August 14.
This year, according to Minister Khichi, the Lok Mela (folk festival) will feature international participation, inviting foreign companies and embassies to set up their stalls. Official invitation letters will be sent to ambassadors and cultural attachés of various countries to encourage broad cultural exchange.
These strategic efforts will significantly contribute to preserving Pakistan’s unique cultural legacy, highlighting the country’s diverse heritage and traditions on both domestic and international platforms.
