Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Saturday announced Rs 21 lakh from his discretionary fund for the Pandit Jasraj cultural foundation.
He also paid rich tributes to Indian classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj on his 93rd birth anniversary at an event here.
Khattar announced the construction of Pandit Jasraj welcome gates at both the entrances of his native village, Pili Mandori, in Fatehabad district, two volleyball nurseries for boys and girls, park and Vayayamshalas, and construction of a new library building.
Addressing the gathering, Khattar said Haryana's "world-famous son" Pandit Jasraj brought great pride to the state and in order to continue with his legacy. A framework for the development of Pandit Jasraj's village Pili Mandori has been made by the state government, an official statement read.
Sharing his views on how rich culture and music may play a critical role in the growth of the next generation, the CM said, "It is a matter of pride that Pandit Jasraj ji was born in Haryana. He is considered one of the greatest Indian classical vocalists. His contribution is a treasure of the musical world. I assure you I will extend all possible cooperation to the foundation for carrying forward the legacy of Pandit Jasraj ji."
"The work of any government is not limited to infrastructural development only but extends to working for the welfare of the society, and instilling in it a social responsibility is also one of the utmost duties of any government.
"Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' call given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of the best examples of this social responsibility presented by Haryana," said Khattar.
Durga Jasraj, the daughter of Pandit Jasraj and founder of Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, said the foundation will undertake various cultural activities year-round to develop and sustain cultural awareness among the people of the state.
Singer Sonu Nigam said that he was proud that his roots belong to Haryana.
He said that besides sports and agriculture, Haryana has shined bright even in the field of music.
"There is a great need to work more to promote music and for this whenever Haryana will need my contribution, I will come happily," the statement said quoting Nigam.
-With PTI Input
