Imphal, March 13 (NationPress) In a remarkable demonstration of cultural unity, 24 young individuals representing four diverse communities of Manipur -- Meitei, Kuki, Naga, and Meitei Pangal (Muslim) -- successfully concluded a 10-day National Integration Tour traversing through Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and West Bengal, as reported by officials on Friday.

On the same day, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and First Lady Jyoti Bhalla visited the Assam Rifles 9th Sector headquarters at New Keithelmanbi Garrison to welcome the 24-member youth team that participated in this initiative.

A senior official highlighted that the team explored Thiruvananthapuram, Kanniyakumari, Mumbai, and Kolkata during their enriching journey. They also had the privilege to meet with Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar.

The objective of this initiative was to promote the ethos of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ and allow participants to engage with India's rich cultural diversity, heritage, and advancements in technology.

Brigadier Pratyush Kumar, Deputy Inspector General of the 9th Sector Assam Rifles, briefed the Governor about the tour's significance.

In his address, the Governor emphasized that the tour provided invaluable insights into the country's cultural tapestry, showcasing how individuals from various communities coexist and collaborate across India.

He acknowledged that such experiences broaden horizons, reinforce national unity, and motivate the young participants to share their newfound knowledge with their communities.

The Governor expressed his belief that the experiences and lessons learned from this tour would inspire participants to make positive contributions to society and strive towards a developed India by 2047.

He urged participants to continue spreading the message of national unity and harmony throughout the state.

The participants reflected on their experiences and expressed appreciation to the Assam Rifles for facilitating this exposure trip. The Governor also engaged in discussions with the youth involved in the National Integration Tour.

Earlier, on March 3, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed his delight at the diverse representation of participants during the flag-off ceremony of the National Integration Tour, indicating an integrated Manipur.

The Chief Minister noted that during the recent ethnic conflict in the state, over 47,000 individuals from both the Meitei and Kuki communities were relocated to safer areas by the Assam Rifles to ensure their well-being.

He praised the swift and committed actions of the Assam Rifles in executing the relocation amidst the conflict.

The Chief Minister also remarked that despite differences, the elders must not compromise the future of the youth.

“We must forgive and forget past grievances and collaboratively pursue peace and development in our state,” he stated.