Punjab will hold five-day Progressive Punjab National livestock Expo and Championship at Muktsar from January 8-12. The State Government is making all out efforts to attract international tourists to the vibrant show on the pattern of Pushkar Mela.
In a meeting with the officials, additional Chief Secretary Animal Husbandry Mandeep Singh Sandhu on Wednesday reviewed the preparation of Expo, and decided to invite progressive livestock farmers from different states so as to encourage interaction between them. Increasing public participation in the expo was also one of the agendas.
Besides livestock championship, experts from different fields would educate the farmers regarding latest inventions in animal husbandry, fisheries, piggery and guide them to explore full market potential of their products.
Over 200 stalls have been planned at the venue where different agri-equipment companies and pharma companies would display their products, said an official spokesman.
Efforts are being made to encourage NRI participation in this expo so that second generation NRIs could get a feel of the rich cultural heritage and colourful rural life of Punjab.
Adjoining farm houses will be roped in where NRIs can stay under farm tourism package enjoying the rural environment for five days. Equestrian championships would also be organised in which teams from Army have been invited for different events like polo matches, cycle polo, tent pegging and show jumping.
It was informed in the meeting that Australia has already confirmed its participation in the Expo, besides Germany and the UK are also expected to send their teams and experts. An Australian delegation would visit Punjab next week to tie up arrangements with the State.