Kohima, March 24: The five-day 9th Northeast Youth Festival 2026 concluded at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium in Dimapur, celebrating the vibrant culture, talent, and unity of youth from across the region.
Kehtosituo Sekho, the Director of Youth Resources and Sports, reported that approximately 1,200 participants, officials, and volunteers from all eight northeastern states attended the festival. Volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) and My Bharat also participated from across the country.
Addressing the gathering, Nagaland’s Minister of Higher Education and Tourism, Temjen Imna Along, stated that the festival reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Developed India.’ He emphasized the crucial role of northeastern youth in nation-building.
Along highlighted that all northeastern states are working collectively towards development and progress. He noted that the region’s diversity, which includes small and tribal communities, presents immense potential for growth.
He mentioned that due to the central government’s inclusive governance, the northeastern region is rapidly integrating into the national mainstream and making continuous progress.
Emphasizing the importance of youth, Along stated that they are the strength of the nation, and the future of both the state and the country depends on them. He added that the direction of society is determined by the energy and contributions of the youth.
He also praised the efforts led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for the development of youth resources in Nagaland.
The minister appreciated the cultural and musical performances showcased during the festival, noting that such platforms help highlight the region’s rich traditions and talents. He encouraged the youth to respect their culture while focusing on education, development, and contributing to peace, stability, and progress.
Sekho reported that six competitions were held, including folk songs, folk dances, guitar playing, rock bands, speech arts, and one-act plays. Non-competitive activities such as martial arts demonstrations, cultural presentations, and tourism tours were also organized.
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