Maa Nanda-Sunanda Mahotsav 2024 and Bugyal Conservation Day: Uttarakhand's Cultural and Ecological Significance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Maa Nanda-Sunanda Mahotsav, 2024 |
| Inaugurated By | Uttarakhand CM (virtually) |
| Location | Nainital, Uttarakhand |
| Purpose | To connect people with their cultural roots |
| Key Features | - Celebrated during the Nandashtami festival in September |
| - Honors goddesses Nanda and Sunanda | |
| - Observed in Almora, Nainital, Kot Along, Bhowali, and Johar | |
| Additional Announcement | - 2nd September declared as Bugyal Conservation Day |
| - Focus on protecting alpine meadows, termed as the Himalayas' 'precious heritage' | |
| Bugyals | - High-altitude alpine meadows above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) |
| Ecological Significance | - Supports biodiversity, grazing grounds for livestock, and ecological balance |
| Popular Bugyals | - Dayara Bugyal: Expansive meadows and stunning views |
| - Bedni Bugyal: Scenic beauty and trekking destination | |
| - Auli Bugyal: Panoramic views and biodiversity amidst Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dunagiri peaks |