Report by Shuchi Giridhar
The opening day of the North East Festival started with a bang. The festival has been organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region(DoNER) as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The festival commenced in the states of Assam Nagaland, Manipur, and Sikkim on 28th April 2022.
But first, what is Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav?
As a tribute to India’s freedom and all the soldiers who fought for it, the years 2021 and 2022 were declared years of celebration under Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by the Indian government. These two years mark the 75th and 76th years of independence for India. Various programs and celebrations have been conducted under Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav in different states till now.
Now let us take a look into the festivities going on in the North-eastern States for the North East festival.
Imphal, Manipur
At Khuman Lampak located in Imphal, Manipur’s Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh inaugurated the starting ceremony of the North East Regional Sports Meet. People who love sports, from the state, could compete against each other in this event. Table tennis tournaments and football matches in other areas in Manipur were also conducted throughout the day, where budding young players could compete.
Guwahati, Assam
Half marathons, walkathons, and cyclathons were held pushing forward the initiative of ‘Jan Bhagidari’. The initiative focuses on the concept of ‘Healthy Sports For A Healthy Mind’.
Mizoram
Across the Siaha district and Lunglei district of Mizoram, mini marathons and cycling rallies were organised. All sections of the society came together with focus on the ‘Jan Bhagidari’ initiative and participated in the events held. An Assam rifles personnel himself participated in the cycle rally held in Lunglei district. These sports events were held amongst the AkAM celebrations.
Nagaland
The festival celebrations took place in Shilloi hotel Japfu, located in Kohima. The festivities focused on the concept of ‘Journey of Nagaland since Statehood’. The programme focused on the cultural extravagance of Nagaland. A presentation was showcased. The State IPR department also showcased a photography exhibition on the history of Nagaland.
Sikkim
All the citizens took full participation in the festival celebrations. At Soreng district, a debate competition focusing on the topic ‘Local Government making a mass development’ was held. In one of the remote blocks of Gyalsing (West Sikkim), painting debate and quiz competitions were held. In Mangan (district headquarters of North Sikkim) a quiz competition was also held.
The North East festival will continue for an entire week till 7th May, which will include celebrations, competitions, and many sports activities.
