Youths of Mizoram, Tripura arrive in state to foster cultural collaboration

SHILLONG/TURA, Feb 17: Youths from Mizoram and Tripura arrived in Meghalaya on Monday for the Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme 2025 organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
In Shillong, 27 participants from Mizoram participated in a programme at Youth Hostel, Shillong, aiming to foster cultural exchange, national integration, and leadership development along with Meghalaya’s youths during the youth exchange programme which will last till February 20.
In his address at the inaugural function, Deputy Director of NYKS Shillong, D Rapsang, said, “These initiatives celebrate India’s unity in diversity while fostering mutual understanding among its people. Through structured engagement, we aim to showcase the rich heritage of different states, instill a spirit of national integration, and create an environment of learning and collaboration.”
Director of Meghalaya’s Sports & Youth Affairs department, DD Shira, who served as the chief guest of the inaugural ceremony, exuded enthusiasm at the participation of youths from Mizoram, while hoping wished for a memorable exchange. He highlighted the importance of such exchange programmes among youths in strengthening unity and leadership. “I warmly welcome all participants to Meghalaya and hope you have a meaningful and enriching stay. This programme provides a valuable opportunity to interact with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. As we speak, a team from Meghalaya is on its way to Indonesia for an international youth exchange, reinforcing the significance of learning from both national and global experiences. I encourage you to apply the knowledge gained here in your daily lives and communities,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, a delegation of 27 members from Tripura along with the escorting officers arrived in Mendipathar, North Garo Hills, to participate in the Inter State Youth Exchange Programme 25.
The inaugural function was held at Mendipathar Multi Purpose Hall, Mendipathar.
Speaking as the chief guest during the inaugural ceremony, Additional Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, TR Marak called for national integration through the ideas of cultural exchange, language learning, experience sharing, social development and entrepreneurship among the youth. Marak underscored the importance of robust interaction between the youth, the community members and the entrepreneurs in order for the programme to achieve its objectives.
He also motivated the participants to foster a sense of comradeship while experiencing the diverse culture and heritage which was imperative for the progress of the state and the country as a whole.
Throughout the programme, participants will engage in various activities, including interactions with eminent personalities, language learning, cultural exchanges, and visits to historical sites.