ITANAGAR, 31 May: The fifth and final day of ‘Yuva Sangam, Phase VI’ under the Ek Bharat,Shreshtha Bharat initiative marked the culmination of an enriching and memorable cultural exchange programme for delegates from Uttar Pradesh in Arunachal Pradesh, while simultaneously heralding the beginning of a similar journey for the Arunachal contingent to Uttar Pradesh, on 30 May.
The day commenced with the continuation of the exposure visit to the Ziro valley in Lower Subansiri district, where the delegates visited the scenic Sikhe Lake and enjoyed its serene natural surroundings. This was followed by a visit to Kasa Botanical Park, where the participants explored the picturesque landscape and reflected upon the experiences and learnings they gained during their stay in Arunachal.
Following the completion of the Ziro excursion, the delegates returned to the NERIST in Nirjuli, carrying cherished memories and valuable insights gathered throughout the Yuva Sangam programme.
Prior to the valedictory programme, a sapling plantation drive was organised at the NERIST campus.
The valedictory programme was held at the Silver Jubilee Hall of the NERIST, in the presence of delegates, coordinators, faculty members, officials, and members of the organising team. The programme featured experience-sharing sessions by the delegates, who expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the NERIST and the people of Arunachal. Participants also reflected on the cultural, educational, and social experiences gained during their five-day immersion in the state.
Addressing the gathering, ICR Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu encouraged the delegates from Arunachal to make the most of their educational exposure visit to UP. He also urged the delegates from UP to serve as ambassadors of Arunachal upon their return, and to share constructive feedback that could contribute to the continued development and improvement of the state.
NERIST Director Prof Narendranath S highlighted the importance of Yuva Sangam in promoting national integration, cultural understanding, mutual respect, and meaningful engagement among the youths of India. The programme was attended also by Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) Vice-Chancellor (i/c) Prof SK Nayak and NIT Jote Director Prof Mohan V Aware.
Meanwhile, an Arunachal contingent, comprising students from the NERIST, RGU and NIT Jote departed for their reciprocal exposure visit under the programme on 30 May. The coordinating institution for Uttar Pradesh is the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow.
Following the valedictory programme, a flag-off ceremony was organised to formally bid farewell to the Arunachal contingent as they commenced their journey to Uttar Pradesh. The ceremony symbolised the continuity of the Yuva Sangam initiative and the strengthening of cultural and emotional bonds between the two states.
The delegates from Uttar Pradesh subsequently departed from Arunachal with lasting memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation of the culture, traditions, heritage, and diversity of the state.
The completion of Yuva Sangam, Phase VI in Arunachal and the departure of the Arunachal contingent for UP reflected the true spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, fostering national integration, mutual learning, and enduring connections among the youths of India, according to a release.
