Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Thursday said the British era heritage building, Bantony Castle, in Shimla would be renovated at a cost of Rs 25 crore in order to develop as a major tourist attraction.

At the inauguration of a five-day long state level Gram Shilp Mela organised by Language Art and Culture department, Thakur said that Bantony Castle was one of the historic and monumental building of Shimla town and has a very rich history. 

Thakur said the complex as a whole would be developed in such a way that it not only becomes a tourist attraction, but also a Centre of rich cultural diversity of the state.

“The building is also an example of beautiful anglo-gothic architecture and since the building was strategically located on the Mall Road, it could be an added attraction for the tourists,” he said.

The CM Thakur said that Himachal has immense potential due to its cultural diversity and rich history as there are several historic buildings and monuments which could be developed as major tourist attractions.

He said organising Gram Shilp Mela is a new beginning for the Bantony Castle as artisans from different parts of the state got an opportunity to exhibit their artifacts.

Each district of the state was unique in itself and the government would provide all possible help to the artisans to provide a market for their products, he said.

“The government would also organise District level Gram Shilp Melas besides Inter-state Gram Shilp Melas to promote the artifacts of the state. Artisans from all the districts of the state are participating in this Gram Shilp Mela and it is the duty of each one of us to promote this rich cultural diversity,” he said.

Thakur said the government has announced a new scheme named ‘Aaj Purani Rahon Se’ for exploring folklores, historic events and cultural tourism in the state.

He said that the government has also decided to introduce miniaturised cultural souvenirs of HP such as musical instruments, Chamba Rumal, Kangra paintings etc. This would help the tourists in carrying and preserving famous artifacts of the state with them, he added.

The CM also released brochure and Directory of Artisans brought out by the LAC Department on the occasion.