ITANAGAR, Jun 25: A five-day North East NSS Festival 2026, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt of India, in collaboration with the NSS Regional Directorate, Guwahati, Arunodaya University, Itanagar, and the State NSS Cell, Directorate of Higher & Technical Education (DHTE), Arunachal Pradesh, got underway at the AU premises here today.
The prestigious festival has brought together 320 NSS volunteers and Programme Officers representing all eight Northeastern states, providing a vibrant platform for youth interaction, cultural exchange, leadership development, and national integration.
The inaugural function was graced by Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona as a chief guest. Formally inaugurating the festival, the Minister emphasized the importance of effective time management, cultural assimilation, and fostering a spirit of brotherhood among the youth. He urged the NSS volunteers to respect and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions of NER and contribute meaningfully towards nation-building.
Addressing the gathering, AU Vice Chancellor Dr N V Sangvikar highlighted the pivotal role of youth in contemporary society, and reiterated the University’s commitment to providing quality education and holistic development opportunities to learners.
Jangjilong, In-charge Regional Director, NSS Regional Directorate (Guwahati), motivated the volunteers to actively participate in nation-building initiatives and encouraged them to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat through community service and social engagement.
In his speech, State NSS Officer Dr A K Mishra elaborated on the objectives of organizing the North East NSS Festival and highlighted its significance in promoting leadership, volunteerism, social responsibility, and regional harmony among the youth.
To mark the occasion, a colourful cultural parade showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Northeastern region was presented by participants from all the states on the theme song of the National Service Scheme (NSS), captivating the audience and reflecting the unity in diversity of the region.