Regional Police Officer Shariq Kamal Siddiqui, Deputy Commissioner Capt R Shoib Ali, Director General Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) Ayuob Jamali, Executive Director Lok Virsa Uzair Khan, Chairman Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) Dr Najeeba Arif and diplomats were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the ceremony, the Minister said that National Heritage and Culture Division in collaboration with Government of Punjab organized a 2-day National Citrus Festival on 18th and 19h January.

He said that Sargodha serves as the perfect backdrop for a grand celebration of the nation’s diverse citrus heritage.

The minister said that the festival will be crafted not only to showcase the economic and agricultural significance of citrus but also to promote social cohesion and a strong sense of national identity.

Jamal Shah said that National Citrus Festival aims to attract visitors from across Pakistan, promoting national unity through shared cultural experiences.

He said that the festival provides a national platform for businesses, farmers, and artisans to showcase and sell citrus-related products, fostering economic growth and national resilience, thereby contributing to a more socially cohesive society.

Secretary National Heritage and Culture Humaira Ahmed said that the festival aims to conduct workshops, seminars and demonstrations to educate the public on citrus farming techniques, nutritional benefits and sustainable agricultural practices, reinforcing a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

In his welcome address, Commissioner Sargodha Division Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti highly praised National Heritage and Culture Division for organizing Citrus festival in Sargodha.

He said that Sargodha is a major citrus producing city, thanks to its favorable weather conditions for growing the best quality kinnow.

This year, however, saw a drop in exports and said concerned ministry should work on it to increase the exports of Kinnow. 

The two-day festival components includes guided tours for visitors offering an immersive experience of Sargodha’s citrus orchards

Traditional music, dance and art performances from different regions of Pakistan.

Display of various citrus varieties from different provinces focusing on their unique characteristics, nutritional benefits, and regional importance, emphasizing the shared cultural heritage of the nation.

Culinary section where chefs will create unique citrus-based dishes inspired by regional flavors, allowing visitors to experience the culinary diversity of Pakistan, contributing to a shared cultural experience.

PNCA Puppet Theatre, National Performing Arts Group, Lok Virsa Fazal Jutt and avais Niazi performed on the occasion and got big applause from the audience.