New Delhi/Itanagar, Nov 12 (NationPress) The Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, held a virtual meeting on Wednesday with the inaugural group of students taking part in the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Exchange Programme in Arunachal Pradesh.

This first edition includes 39 students—19 from Goa and 20 from Uttarakhand—providing them a remarkable chance to delve into the cultural richness of the Northeast.

Funded and organized by the DoNER Ministry and the North Eastern Council (NEC), this extensive initiative encompasses 1,280 students from 28 states and Union Territories, with visits planned to all 8 Northeastern states in 40 batches.

The objective of this programme is to bolster youth-to-youth connections and to foster inter-regional understanding and cultural appreciation, resonating with the vision articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Scindia emphasized that the creation of this programme was driven by a deliberate effort to ensure equal involvement of both boys and girls, underscoring the commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

He characterized the Ashtalakshmi Darshan as a unique cultural and educational exchange initiative under the umbrella of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, aimed at reinforcing emotional and cultural ties among youth from various parts of India and the eight Northeastern states.

This initiative enables students to immerse themselves in the region’s languages, traditions, environment, and community life, allowing them to experience India’s full diversity and unity.

Reflecting on his recent trip to Ziro Valley, Scindia fondly described its enchanting beauty, stating it felt like “time slows down just enough for you to listen to the Earth.”

His sentiments resonated with students, many of whom shared their own positive experiences from their travels through the valley and Itanagar.

During the interaction, Scindia engaged with students about their experiences. He asked Saumya Bisht from Uttarakhand whether she would bring family or friends to Arunachal Pradesh next time; she cheerfully responded, “Both.”

In a conversation with Rucha Parab from Goa regarding the differing climates, Scindia, recalling his own sports days, remarked that “the stamina required in water is different from the ground, and altogether different in the mountains,” even switching to Marathi in a warm exchange that pleasantly surprised the students.

Deepani from Goa described her experience in Ziro Valley as profoundly positive and unforgettable.

In response to Aviral from Haldwani, who reflected on India’s cultural diversity, the minister remarked, “It is the responsibility of this generation to pass on this spirit to the next generation.”

Navneet Rawat suggested incorporating more field visits alongside lectures, while Evangeline Menoka proposed that future groups could explore other tribes and lifestyles in Arunachal Pradesh for a more enriching experience.

Students from Rajiv Gandhi University in Arunachal Pradesh, including a My Bharat Awardee (2023-24), also shared their insights from interacting with participants from Goa and Uttarakhand, describing it as a valuable exchange of ideas and friendships.

In his closing remarks, the Minister praised the enthusiasm of the students and encouraged them to share their experiences widely. He stated, “You are the first batch and alumni of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan journey, the torchbearers of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'. Carry this experience with you, keep these friendships alive, and continue to be ambassadors of unity and understanding.”

He urged participants to educate their families and friends about the people, traditions, and beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, reminding them that the Northeast requires not just tourists, but friends who appreciate and celebrate its culture.

The Ashtalakshmi Darshan Exchange Programme exemplifies the government’s dedication to promoting cultural integration, youth engagement, and national unity. It continues to embody the essence of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' and the shared vision of a Viksit Bharat 2047.

On November 7, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik, (Retd.) also interacted with the visiting students from Goa and Uttarakhand at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar, commending the vision behind the programme and describing Ashtalakshmi Darshan as a far-sighted initiative that unites the youth of the Northeastern Region with the rest of India.