ITANAGAR, Feb 16: A five-day Inter-District Youth Exchange Programme organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Govt of India, was officially inaugurated on February 15 at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Itanagar.
Papum Pare is hosting the programme, while West Siang district is participating as the guest district. The programme, being held from February 15 to 19, brought together 37 selected youth participants from West Siang to promote cultural understanding, leadership and national integration.
On arrival, participants completed registration formalities and received programme kits, followed by an interactive session with youth icons and MY Bharat officials. Cultural song presentations added vibrancy to the ceremony.
The inaugural function was graced by State BJP ST Morcha president Kame Yangfo, who encouraged the youth to actively participate in such exchange initiatives to gain exposure to diverse cultures, traditions, languages, festivals, food habits and tribal heritage of Papum Pare district.
He emphasised that such interactions foster unity, mutual respect and a strong sense of national integration. He also encouraged the visiting youth to take part in the Nyokum Yullo festival to understand its cultural richness and significance.
Deputy Director, MY Bharat Papum Pare, Abhishek Mandal, briefed participants on the objectives of the programme and highlighted the department’s vision of nurturing responsible, skilled and socially committed youth. He urged them to make the most of the opportunity and serve as ambassadors of cultural harmony.
Youth leader Regam also addressed the gathering, sharing his views on youth leadership and the role of young people in nation-building through innovation, active participation and community engagement.
As part of the schedule, local exposure and sightseeing tours are planned, during which participants will visit prominent landmarks of Itanagar, including the Gompa and the historic Ita Fort, to learn about their cultural and historical significance.
The programme will also feature cultural exchange activities, leadership development sessions, yoga and wellness classes, community interactions and group discussions aimed at building confidence, teamwork and mutual understanding.
The Inter-District Youth Exchange Programme is expected to provide a meaningful platform for youth from Papum Pare and West Siang to exchange ideas, celebrate diversity and strengthen unity and brotherhood in Arunachal Pradesh.