JOLLANG, 25 Jun: The five-day Northeast NSS Festival 2026, being organised from 24 to 28 June by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, in collaboration with the NSS Regional Directorate, Guwahati, Arunodaya University, and the State NSS Cell, commenced on Wednesday with a grand inaugural ceremony at Arunodaya University here.
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 festival was inaugurated by Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, who emphasised the importance of effective time management, cultural assimilation, and fostering a spirit of brotherhood among the youths. He urged the NSS volunteers to respect and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions of Northeast India and contribute meaningfully towards nation-building.
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.
Addressing the gathering, Arunodaya University Vice-Chancellor Dr NV Sangvikar highlighted the pivotal role of youths in contemporary society, and reiterated the university’s commitment to providing quality education and holistic development opportunities to learners.
NSS Regional Director Jangjilong motivated the volunteers to actively participate in nation-building initiatives, and encouraged them to contribute towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat through community service and social engagement.
State NSS Officer Dr AK Mishra elaborated the objectives of organising the festival, and highlighted its significance in promoting leadership, volunteerism, social responsibility, and regional harmony among the youths.
Arunodaya University Deputy Registrar KK Jha also spoke.
The festival will continue over the next three days with a series of activities, including cultural exchanges, youth interactions, competitions, leadership sessions, sightseeing, and community-oriented programmes aimed at strengthening the values of service, unity, and national integration among NSS volunteers of the Northeast region.
