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New Delhi/Itanagar, Nov 12 (IANS) Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday virtually interacted with the first batch of students participating in the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Exchange Program in Arunachal Pradesh.
The inaugural edition was attended by 39 students – 19 from Goa and 20 from Uttarakhand – providing them a unique opportunity to explore and experience the cultural richness of the North-Eastern region.
Organized and funded by the DoNER Ministry and North Eastern Council (NEC), this mega exchange involves 1,280 students from 28 states and union territories to visit and experience all 8 North Eastern states in 40 batches.
The objective of the program is to strengthen youth-to-youth relations in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and achieve the objective of promoting inter-regional understanding and cultural appreciation.
DoNER Minister shared that while conceptualizing this programme, it was the conscious resolve of the Government to ensure equal participation of boys and girls, while reaffirming the commitment towards inclusivity and empowerment.
He described Ashtalakshmi Darshan as a unique cultural and educational exchange initiative under ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, designed to strengthen emotional and cultural bonds between the youth from across India and the eight North-Eastern states.
The program allows students to immerse themselves in the languages, traditions, environment and community life of the region, helping them see India in all its diversity and unity.
Recalling his recent visit to Ziro Valley, Scindia talked about its serene charm, saying that it felt as if “time has slowed down enough to listen to the earth.”
His thoughts resonated with the students, many of whom shared similar impressions from their journey through the valley and Itanagar.
During the interaction, Scindia interacted with several students on their experiences and learnings. He asked Saumya Bisht from Uttarakhand whether she would bring her family or friends to Arunachal Pradesh next time, to which she replied with a smile, “Both.”
Speaking to Goa’s Rucha Parab about the adverse climate, Scindia recalled his days as a sportsperson and said that “the stamina required in water is different from that on land, and completely different in the mountains,” switching briefly to Marathi in a warm exchange that left the students surprised.
Deepani from Goa described her experience in Ziro Valley as very positive and memorable.
Responding to Haldwani’s Aviral who reflected on India’s diverse culture and heritage, the minister said, “It is the responsibility of this generation to pass on this spirit to the next generation.”
Navneet Rawat suggested doing more field trips along with lectures, while Evangeline Menoka said future groups could also explore other tribes and lifestyles in Arunachal Pradesh for a more diverse experience.
Students from Rajiv Gandhi University in Arunachal Pradesh, including My Bharat Awardees (2023-24), also shared their experiences of the interaction with participants from Goa and Uttarakhand, calling it a valuable exchange of ideas and friendship.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister appreciated the enthusiasm of the students and encouraged them to share their experiences widely. He said, “You are the first batch and alumni of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Yatra, the torchbearers of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. Carry this experience with you, keep these friendships alive and remain ambassadors of unity and understanding.”
He urged the participants to tell their families and friends about the people, traditions and beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, and reminded them that the Northeast not only needs tourists but also friends who understand and celebrate its culture.
The Ashtalakshmi Darshan Exchange Program stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting cultural integration, youth engagement and national unity. It reflects the essence of ‘One India, Best India’ and the shared vision of Developed India 2047.
Meanwhile, on November 7, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General KT Paranaik, (Retd) interacted with visiting students from Goa and Uttarakhand at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar. The Governor appreciated the vision behind the program and described Ashtalakshmi Darshan as a visionary initiative that brings together the youth of the North-Eastern region and the rest of India.
–IANS
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