Shimla, Dec. 24 -- A nine-day Winter Carnival began in Shimla on Wednesday, during the Christmas and New Year festive season, with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu formally inaugurating the event by flagging off a cultural parade and administering a pledge to eliminate the drug menace in the state.

The Chief Minister also joined women artists in performing the traditional Nati dance, highlighting Himachal Pradesh's rich folk culture and cultural heritage. Addressing the media and later speaking to ANI, Sukhu said the Winter Carnival has been organised to attract tourists and provide entertainment during the peak winter season.

"The Winter Carnival is a medium to attract tourists and for their entertainment. We have...