J-K govt committed to revive cultural activities: Jora

"During the last 25 years of turmoil, the cultural activities suffered a setback and artists could not have performed, but now the government would provide every possible help for its revival," Jora said at the Jammu and Kashmir Film Makers and Artists Cooperative Limited (JKFMACL) awards ceremony yesterday.

"It is our duty to support such activities wholeheartedly for the promotion of our centuries old composite culture of the three regions of the state. It is our responsibility also to listen to the problems of the artists of the state and solve them accordingly," he said.

He expressed happiness over an increase in cultural activities in Kashmir valley this year.

Minister of State for Home and Tourism, Nasir Aslam Wani, said the ten-day drama festival provided an opportunity for young talent to prove their mettle.

The need of the hour was to protect the age-old rich culture of Kashmir, Wani said, adding that "in the modern fast running world, we are forgetting our past traditions."

The ministers facilitated a number of artists selected for their performance, besides renowned personalities and former officers of Information and Broadcasting department for the services rendered to it.