Kohima, March 19 (NationPress) The 9th North East Youth Festival 2026 kicked off at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium in Nagaland, organized by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports along with the State's Department of Youth Resources and Sports.

Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, as the special guest at the inaugural ceremony, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Ministry for allowing the State to host this significant event.

He extended a warm welcome to delegates from all eight North Eastern states, alongside participants from MY Bharat and the National Service Scheme, who traveled from across the nation. He noted that their gathering exemplified unity, cultural exchange, and active involvement of youth.

Emphasizing the importance of the festival, the Governor stated that it aims to foster unity, harmony, and cultural exchange among the youth. He referred to this year's theme, “Ashtalakshmi: Celebrating Eight Forces of Youth and Progress,” which symbolizes the energy, diversity, and vast potential of the youth in the region.

He urged participants to engage actively in various activities, forge connections, and cultivate lasting friendships. Highlighting the role of youth in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, he encouraged them to contribute significantly to national progress.

Furthermore, he called on the youth to become ambassadors for their states and the region, promoting respect, collaboration, and mutual understanding.

The Governor praised the collaborative efforts of the Ministry, State Government, and all involved stakeholders in organizing the festival.

In his welcoming speech, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, greeted all participants and guests.

He characterized the festival as a celebration of unity in diversity and a platform to showcase the talents of youth from various North Eastern states.

He motivated participants to immerse themselves in the festivities, appreciate one another's cultures, and seize this valuable opportunity.

He also expressed hope for the festival to be both impactful and memorable.

Joint Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Shiv Ratan, expressed gratitude to the Government of Nagaland for hosting the festival and praised the arrangements and hospitality extended to the attendees.

He stated that the North East Youth Festival serves as a crucial platform for strengthening connections among youth while celebrating the region's rich cultural heritage.

Stressing the vital role of youth in nation-building, he affirmed the Government's commitment to creating more opportunities for young individuals.

The inaugural event began with an invocation by Rev. A. Temsu Longkumer, Pastor of Police Baptist Church, Chumoukedima. This was followed by the introduction and parade of contingents from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Sikkim, and Nagaland.

The event also showcased a special performance by students from Grace Academy, Dimapur, along with vibrant cultural displays from participating states, including a martial arts demonstration by the Nagaland contingent.