Mushalpur. Jan 16 � �The people on either side of Indo-Bhutan border have been in close terms since ages and the first Indo-Bhutan Friendship Mela at Subankhata will invigorate the age-old tie between the citizens of the neighbouring countries. Strengthening of trade relations, sharing of skills and exchange of culture will benefit both the countries,� said Emanuel Mushahary, EM, Health and Library Services, BTC, while inaugurating the first Indo-Bhutan Friendship Mela and 59th Subankhata Magh Mela which got under way at Subankhata in Baksa district today with a colourful cultural programme.
The programme was marked by mass prayer led by Lama Neyten, head priest of Samdrup Jongkhar gompa and release of white pigeons. Bhutanese historical exhibition hall was inaugurated by Dasho Phub Tsering, DC, Sumdrup Jongkhar, Eastern Bhutan.
Pramila Rani Brahma, State Agriculture Minister inaugurated the National Handloom Exhibition 2011. Banamali Boro, EM, Handloom and Textiles, BTC, delivered the welcome speech. Addressing the ceremony as the chief guest Tsering said the Mela gives an opportunity to the citizens of both the countries to come closer and understand the culture and values of each other.
