Governor opens 9th Northeast Youth Festival 2026
REGIONAL: The 9th North East Youth Festival 2026, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland commenced at Chumoukedima Football Stadium Wednesday. Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, who was the special guest, expressed gratitude to the Ministry for hosting the festival and welcomed delegates from all eight northeastern states along with participants from MY Bharat and the National Service Scheme.
Governor highlighted the festival's objectives of promoting unity, cultural exchange, and youth involvement, reflecting on the theme “Ashtalakshmi: Celebrating Eight Forces of Youth and Progress.” The Governor urged participants to engage in events, forge friendships, and contribute towards national developmental goals such as Viksit Bharat@2047.
S Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, highlighted the festival as a celebration of unity and diversity providing a platform for youth to showcase talents and foster friendships. Joint Secretary Shiv Ratan from the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports praised the Government of Nagaland for its hospitality and organized arrangements.
The inauguration featured an invocation, a parade of contingents from various states and cultural demonstrations including a martial arts display by the Nagaland contingent. Overall the festival highlights the importance of youth engagement and cultural appreciation across the North Eastern region.