A week-long Anand Utsav- Happiness Festival begins today across Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
Madhya Pradesh is the first state in the country to set up Happiness Department. Anand Utsav is the first programme of this department.
Anand Utsav aims to provide happiness to the needy.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will address the state level Anandam programme in capital Bhopal today.
Different sports events like kho-kho, wrestling, kabaddi and cultural functions will be organised at village panchayat level to bring happiness and joy to the people during the festival.
The state government is also setting up "Anandam Kendras" at district headquarters.
Any person who wishes to donate items can keep the items at these centres.
On the other hand, the needy persons will get the same for their need from here.