SHILLONG, July 13: The North East NSS Youth Festival 2025, hosted by Union Christian College (UCC), Umiam Khwan, came to a meaningful close on July 12 after five vibrant days of celebration, dialogue, and cultural exchange under the theme “One North East, One Spirit.”
The festival commenced on July 8 at the Christopher Singh Auditorium, where the opening evening was brought to life with a cultural programme. Students from across the Northeast showcased their diverse heritage through music and dance. The evening featured beatboxing by Himraj Borah from Assam, solos and folk dances from Assam and Meghalaya, and an electrifying hip-hop performance from Nagaland, which drew enthusiastic applause from the packed audience.
On Day 2 (July 9), two technical sessions were held — the first focused on environmental awareness, where eco-activist and radio jockey Nicholas J Kharnami addressed the participants, and the second session was dedicated to Crime and Youth, led by Inspector KS Lywait, Officer-in-Charge of Umiam Police Station.
Students from Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura, Nagaland, and the host college UCC presented folk songs, classical dances, and musical duets. The evening concluded with a soulful solo performance by Kaisa Jamatia of UCC, leaving the audience inspired.
On Day 3 (July 10), participants took part in Self-Defence Training conducted by the KRAV MAGA team, equipping volunteers with real-world defensive skills and promoting self-confidence. This was followed by a panel discussion on youth unemployment, chaired by Ibankyntiew Mawrie of 4Front Media. The session featured insights from Dr Rusievan Shangpliang of the History Department at Synod College, Alan West Kharkongor of the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation Ltd., and Eric Kevin Dkhar, BDO of Umling Block. The discussion struck a chord with young participants and attracted over 80,000 online views, highlighting the session’s relevance and digital reach.
In the afternoon, volunteers participated in a trekking activity to UCC Peak, where they planted 10 saplings as a symbol of environmental responsibility and community spirit. The trek fostered camaraderie and interstate bonding, reinforcing the festival’s theme of unity.
That evening, the cultural programme once again showcased a variety of captivating performances. The event featured a classical dance by Kaisa Jamatia, an electric guitar performance by Stefferson Marbaniang, and a lively musical set by Leonard Syiemlieh. A surprise duet by the Principal and F Rumnong, alongside a heartfelt rendition of ‘We Shall Overcome’ by the programme officers, created memorable moments of joy and solidarity.
Day 4 (July 11) was dedicated to a sightseeing trip to Laitlum Canyon. Students sang gospel songs, rode horses, and savoured local delicacies such as freshly steamed momos.
On Day 5 (July 12), the festival began with an energetic Zumba session led by the NCC group, followed by the final technical session, where Regional Director of NSS (North East), D Carthigueane, emphasised the importance of digital engagement through the My Bharat Portal.
The valedictory session, held once again at the Christopher Singh Auditorium, opened with a traditional Khasi song and a Bihu dance performance by students from Assam.
Certificates were distributed by NSS Programme Officer of UCC, ABS Kharkongor, to programme officers from Assam, Nagaland, Tripura, and various colleges from Meghalaya, acknowledging their contributions to the festival. The Assam NSS team energised the gathering with the NSS Power Clap, and the event concluded with a Vote of Thanks followed by the National Anthem.
