Parab 2015 fest begins in Maoist-hit area

Aimed at protecting and promoting the rich cultural heritate of the region, Parab-2015 kicked off in Maoist-affected Narayanpatna of Koraput district in Odisha with the lighting of the festival torch.
The torch, brought from the Jagannath temple to the high school ground in a huge procession, was lit by Koraput MP Jhina Hikaka yesterday as tribal artists danced to drum beats in traditional attire.
This year, the state-level festival features sports events, tribal dances, songs and music with traditional instruments.
"The festival aims to both protect and promote the region's rich cultural heritage. It also provides a platform to local artists to showcase their talent," the MP said. It was conceived and held for the first time in 1996.

Officials said the Parab torch was lit in Narayanpatna to instil confidence among the people of the Maoist-hit block and bring development to the region. The locals too were elated and could be seen enjoying the occasion.
"The administration is strengthening healthcare facilities and education in the block under 'Operation Blue Moon'. Electrification of villages is on in full swing," said Collector (Koraput) Jaya Kumar V.

The collector said work on all-weather roads, safe drinking water facilities and construction of anganwadi centres will be taken up in the next few months.
"All steps are being taken to ensure that the social security programmes of the government reaches the beneficiaries in Narayanpatna," he added.

The collector said the festival has generated a lot of interest among tourists. "We are expecting a good number of tourists during the event," he said.
The competitions at block and district levels will continue till December 30. The grand finale will held at the stadium ground here from January 2 to 4.
Given the presence of Maoists in the area, security was beefed up in Narayanpatna with deployment of six platoons of BSF, SOG and police personnel.
"The entire 20-km stretch from Laxmipur to Narayanpatna was sensitized. No untoward incident was reported during the launch of the festival," said SDPO (Laxmipur) Hemant Kumar Padhi.