New Delhi, Oct. 26 -- Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday highlighted cultural preservation, youth employment and the protection of the state's identity at the Kumaon Dwar Mahotsav in Haldwani. Addressing the gathering as chief guest, he said cultural events were important for taking local traditions and folk arts to younger generations.

Dhami welcomed attendees and praised the Vaidehi Cultural Education and Art Foundation for its efforts to connect young people with Uttarakhand's heritage through folk music and dance. He described Haldwani as the gateway to Kumaon and said the region had an important place in the cultural life of the hill communities.

The chief minister also raised concerns over remarks referring t...