Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General (Retd.) Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik graced the valedictory function of the North East National Service Scheme (NSS) Festival as the chief guest at Himalayan University, Itanagar. The five-day event brought together around 320 NSS volunteers from all eight Northeastern states, who participated in cultural performances, quizzes, presentations, and other competitive activities.
The closing ceremony featured a vibrant Cultural Parade and mesmerising performances that highlighted the rich cultural diversity of the Northeast. The Governor distributed awards and merit certificates to the outstanding performers and teams.
Major Award Winners:
- Best NSS Volunteer: Shri Akshya Thakur (Bodoland University, Assam)
- Most Disciplined Contingent: Manipur
- Traditional Group Dance (1st Prize): Arunachal Pradesh
- PPT Presentation (1st Place): Miss Heisnam Cindy (Manipur)
- Extempore Speech (1st Place): Miss Curie Koijan (Manipur)
- Quiz Competition Winners: Techi Monica and Vicky Puroik (Arunachal Pradesh)
Governor’s Key Message
In his address, the Governor described the youth as the torchbearers of tomorrow who will shape the future of the region and the nation as India marches towards Viksit Bharat @2047. He emphasised the crucial role of NSS volunteers in nation-building by directing youthful energy towards meaningful community service.
“You already possess immense potential, strength, talent, and creativity. What remains is to nurture these gifts with dedication and channel them towards constructive nation-building,” the Governor told the volunteers.
He urged them to remain physically strong, mentally alert, morally upright, and self-disciplined, while preparing themselves for leadership roles through commitment to the larger good.
Describing the festival as a celebration of “youth power” and the cultural richness of the Northeast, he linked it to the Prime Minister’s vision of Ashtalakshmi and highlighted the transformative impact of the Act East Policy on regional development.
The Governor called upon the volunteers to become ambassadors of the Northeast, saying: “You represent the spirit, energy, and promise of our homeland. Let the world know that the North East is not just a place but an experience of nature, culture, and harmony.”
He suggested incorporating sessions on national security and global issues in NSS programmes and expressed serious concern over the rising drug menace, urging volunteers to actively spread awareness and compassion in schools, neighbourhoods, and homes.
Other Highlights
- Senior officials including Education Commissioner Shri Amjad Tak, Himalayan University Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Prakash Divakaran, and State NSS Liaison Officer Dr. A.K. Mishra also addressed the gathering.
- As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, the Governor participated in a tree plantation drive on the university campus, marking the culmination of his maiden visit to Himalayan University.
The North East NSS Festival successfully showcased the talent, discipline, and community spirit of young volunteers, reinforcing their pivotal role in building a stronger, more united Northeast and nation.
(Source: India Today NE)
