India's neighbours at Surajkund

Artistes and many other representatives from all the member-nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) apart from India -- Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Maldives -- will for the first time be taking part in the Surajkund Crafts Mela that opens in neighbouring Faridabad this coming Wednesday, February 1.

Haryana Tourism and the Union Textiles and Tourism Ministries host the Surajkund Mela jointly every year in February. It has come to occupy a pride of place and prominence on the international tourist calendar. Not only are a vast variety of handicrafts put on display, artistes, dancers and musicians from all over the country also come to highlight their talent and culture. The mela is also a treat for food lovers as traditional cuisines of different States are served along with the cultural fare, she added

Ms. Chaudhary said the focus was on quality participation and to ensure that people get the best. Also, she said, she was in touch with the Union Government to put in place a scheme to not only promote "religious tourism'' but also to work for projection of important monuments in the State.

The mela will be open up to February 15