Kohima, March 23 (NationPress) The 9th North East Youth Festival 2026, a vibrant five-day event, wrapped up at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium in Dimapur, uniting youth from all corners of the region to celebrate their rich culture, talent, and unity.

Kethosituo Sekhose, the Director of Youth Resources & Sports, shared insights on the festival, revealing that approximately 1,200 participants, officials, and volunteers from all eight Northeastern states attended. Volunteers from NSS and MY Bharat also contributed from various parts of the country.

In his address, Nagaland’s Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, Temjen Imna Along, remarked that the festival embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat.” He underscored the significant role the youth of the Northeast play in the journey of nation-building.

Minister Along pointed out the collective efforts of all Northeastern states towards advancement and progress, emphasizing that the region’s diversity, which includes smaller and tribal communities, offers vast potential for development.

He noted that due to inclusive governance from the Central Government, the Northeast is gradually becoming a part of the national mainstream and making steady progress.

Highlighting the critical importance of the youth, Along expressed that they represent the strength of the nation, and the future of both the state and country hinges upon their contributions.

Moreover, he mentioned that the direction of society is largely influenced by the vigor and efforts of young individuals.

He also recognized the initiatives under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's leadership aimed at enhancing youth resources in Nagaland.

The Minister commended the cultural and musical displays during the festival, pointing out that such platforms significantly showcase the region's rich traditions and skills.

He encouraged the youth to cherish their cultural heritage while prioritizing education, development, and contributing to peace, stability, and growth.

According to Sekhose, the festival featured six competitive events, including folk song, folk dance, instrumental guitar, rock band, declamation, and one-act play. Additionally, non-competitive activities like martial arts demonstrations, cultural presentations, and exposure visits were organized.

Over 200 NSS volunteers participated in a two-day seminar focusing on youth leadership, Viksit Bharat @2047, and the Ashtalakshmi concept. MY Bharat volunteers also set up Yuva Kriti and food festival stalls, showcasing local innovation and entrepreneurship.

The festival successfully emphasized the talent and diversity of the region’s youth while reinforcing unity and collaboration among the Northeastern states.

The closing ceremony featured cultural performances, including martial arts displays by teams from Assam, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura, along with a prize distribution ceremony.