NE Youth Festival a symbol of unity: Gov

The 9th North East Youth Festival 2026 commenced with a vibrant inaugural ceremony at Chümoukedima Football Stadium on Wednesday evening, bringing together youth delegates from across the eight North Eastern states in a celebration of culture, unity and youth empowerment.
Gracing the occasion as special guest, Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for entrusting Nagaland with hosting the event, terming it a matter of pride for the state and a significant platform for regional youth engagement.
He said it was befitting for Nagaland, often called the “Land of Festivals”, to host such an event celebrating diversity and unity. He also welcomed delegates from all eight North Eastern states, along with participants from MY Bharat and the National Service Scheme, noting that their presence reflected the spirit of national integration.
Highlighting the state’s cultural richness, Yadav described Nagaland as a land of vibrant traditions, scenic landscapes and strong community values, adding that its festivals and way of life exemplified harmony between people and nature.
He said the festival, organised by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports under the aegis of the Ministry, aimed to promote unity, cultural exchange and mutual respect. Referring to the theme “Ashtalakshmi: Celebrating Eight Forces of Youth and Progress”, he said it reflected the energy and potential of the region’s youth. The governor encouraged participants to actively engage in various events and build lasting friendships, while emphasising the role of youth in nation-building and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Meanwhile, delivering the welcome address, advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, Keoshu Yimkhiung described the festival as a celebration of unity, diversity and youthful energy.
He welcomed the dignitaries and participants, expressing confidence that the event would provide a platform for youth to showcase their talents, exchange ideas and build lasting relationships.
Joint secretary, Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Shiv Ratan thanked the Nagaland government for hosting the festival and appreciated the arrangements, commending the state’s hospitality.
He said the festival was an important platform reflecting the spirit of unity in diversity, adding that the eight North Eastern states formed an integral part of the country’s cultural identity. He stated that the festival aimed to strengthen bonds among youth, promote mutual understanding and create greater opportunities for young people.
Earlier, the inaugural programme began with an invocation by Rev. A Temsu Longkumer, pastor, Police Baptist Church, Chümoukedima, followed by introduction and parade of contingents from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Sikkim and Nagaland. This was followed by a special performance by students of Grace Academy, Dimapur, and cultural presentations by participating states, including martial arts demonstration by Nagaland Pencak Silat team.