Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar visited the Harihar Kshetra Sonepur Fair-2025 in Sonepur, Saran district, inspecting the fairgrounds and advising officials on civic amenities, cleanliness, and security arrangements.
The month-long fair, which began on November 9 and will continue until December 10 due to rescheduling around the state assembly elections, is one of India’s oldest and largest cattle fairs. Thousands of traders and artisans gather to sell livestock, handicrafts, traditional jewellery, decorative items, utensils, and clothing. Cultural programmes and sporting events, including horse racing, wrestling, and boating, are held daily, providing entertainment and opportunities for local artists.
During his visit, CM Nitish toured exhibition stalls set up by government departments including the Disaster Management Department, Women and Child Development Corporation, Art and Craft Village, and Jeevika. He interacted with manufacturers, sellers, and beneficiaries of government schemes, noting their appreciation for state support. He presented checks to women beneficiaries under the “Chief Minister’s Women Employment Scheme,” highlighting their increasing self-reliance and social recognition.
“The Sonepur Fair is not only a symbol of our ancient traditions but also a pillar of the rural economy,” he said. “We are ensuring convenience for all participants while supporting their progress.”
The fair, locally known as the Chhatra Fair, takes place on the banks of the Ganges and Gandak rivers, drawing devotees to the Harihar Nath Temple. It is particularly famous as the country’s largest cattle market, attracting buyers and sellers of elephants, horses, camels, cows, buffaloes, dogs, parrots, and other animals from across India and abroad.
Exhibitions by central and state ministries, including the Ministry of Mines, Coal India Limited, and Sashastra Seema Bal, offer information on government schemes to fair visitors. The Revenue and Land Reforms and Tourism Departments provide financial support, while the Saran district administration manages logistics, security, and public amenities.
Senior officials accompanying the Chief Minister included Rural Works Minister Ashok Choudhary, Bihar State Disaster Management Authority member Kaushal Kishore Mishra, Principal Secretary of Agriculture Pankaj Kumar, and district magistrates and police officials from Patna and Saran.
