The inaugural programme of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme was held at Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, on February 2, 2026. The programme, an initiative of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the North Eastern Council (NEC), is being hosted by Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, from February 1 to 14, 2026.
The event was attended by 40 students and four teacher in-charges from Kerala and Ladakh, along with faculty members, officers, and students of Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus.
The programme was chaired by Prof. J. Longkumer, Associate Dean (Students’ Welfare) and Nodal Officer for the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Programme at Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus. Prof. Pauline Alila, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences, delivered the welcome address.
In his special address, Som Kamei, Planning Adviser, North Eastern Council, encouraged the participants to learn about diverse cultures and experience the hospitality of Nagaland. He stated that the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme is a key initiative championed by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, aimed at connecting youth across India with the Northeast.
Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Medziphema Campus, applauded the students for their participation and urged them to learn about India’s cultural diversity while serving as ambassadors linking the North Eastern Region with the rest of the country.
A brief outline of the itinerary was presented by Dr. Kevinituo Bier, Assistant Professor, Department of Soil Science, while the delegate presentation was delivered by Neipusimeu Yalie and Watisenla Longkumer. Visiting student representatives also delivered short speeches highlighting the key features and attractions of their respective states.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. S. Pavan, Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, who acknowledged the support of NEC officials, Nagaland University authorities, and Harun Rashid of Balmer Lawrie for facilitating flight bookings for the delegates.
