45th Nehru Bal Mela kicks off with Russian cultural programme

New Delhi, Nov 10 (UNI) The 45th Nehru Bal Mela, a six-day annual cultural and talent show for children, was inaugurated here today by DPCC president J P Aggarwal, MP.

"We should appreciate the good work done by the Samiti, over the past 45 years," Mr Aggarwal said after lighting the ceremonial lamp.

The mela was organised by Nehru Bal Samiti, earlier known as Nehru Bal Mela Samiti. Formed on November 14, 1963, it was inaugurated by the first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru. It runs several schools and students are impart educational facilities on a nominal fee in these schools.

"Our main purpose was to work for the children from weaker sections. During our starting period the drop-out rate of the children below class five was 50 per cent and it was shame for our country. We were committed to rectify the situation," Mr S P Govil, veteran freedom fighter and one of the founders, told UNI. He is at present Hony. Secretary and Director of the Samiti.

On the occasion, Mr Aggarwal also offered to extend financial support for the Samiti's educational projects, including computer training and sports activities for the children from weaker sections.

The first day's programme included a show by a Russian cultural troupe. The coming days will see competitions in folk group dance, solo-vocal music, declamation contests in Hindi or English and on the spot-painting. It will conclude with a Children's Walk, for Pandit Nehru's ideals at the Children's park in India Gate to be flagged-off by Delhi Lt Governor Tejendra Khanna.

UNI