The programme under the theme ‘Empowered Youth, Empowered Region, My Bharat, Viksit Bharat.’ was organised by Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, under Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India as a part of the 8th North East Youth Festival 2025 at the auditorium of Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government College, Tadong, today.
Minister, Health & Family Welfare and Culture Departments, Mr GT Dhungel as the Chief Guest, in his address, welcomed all attendees to Sikkim. He spoke about the importance of youth participation in cultural and sports activities. He stated that active engagement in such activities builds character, promotes discipline, and strengthens national unity.
He advised students to stay engaged in their work, remain focused, and set goals to inspire future generations. He encouraged them to cultivate a positive mindset and not dwell on negative aspects of life. Mr GT Dhungel urged students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
He spoke about the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. He stated that education has no age limit and encouraged students to seek knowledge at every stage of life. He highlighted that personal and professional growth requires dedication and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Mr GT Dhungel said that success and failure are part of life, but participation is most important. He emphasised that every effort contributes to learning and development.
Concluding his address, the Minister wished all attendees a meaningful experience at the youth festival and a pleasant stay in Sikkim.
The judges for the folk cultural event were Director Reeyaz Sangeetalaya Mr Manoj Rai, Director Tapashree Academy Ms Komal Gurung, Director Remanti Sangeet Academy Ms Remanti Rai and Semi-Finalist Voice of Nepal Season 2 Ms Geeta Sharma.
Participants from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura took part in a folk song and dance competition.
The festival includes cultural competitions, a one-act play, and an instrumental guitar (solo) competition until 20 March 2025.
Earlier, Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Ms Yangchen Doma Tamang, delivered the Welcome Address, while the Word of Thanks was proposed by Assistant Director, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr Bhanu Chapagai.
The programme also had the special presence of State Information Commissioner and President Sikkim Olympic Association, Mr Kuber Bhandari; Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, Ms Madhavi Mohan; Arjuna Awardee in Boxing and General Secretary Sikkim Olympic Association, Mr Jaslal Pradhan, and Principal Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government College Tadong Dr D Purohit.
The programme was also attended by officers and staff of Sports and Youth Affairs Department, nodal officials, participants, and delegates from the North East states.
