The valedictory programme of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan – Youth Exchange Programme, sponsored by the North Eastern Council (NEC) and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Government of India, was held on February 13, 2026, at the Multi-Purpose Hall, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus.
The programme is a joint initiative of MDoNER and NEC aimed at promoting Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by connecting youth from non-North Eastern states with the eight North Eastern states through a 14-day academic, cultural, and experiential exchange to foster national integration and mutual understanding.
At Nagaland University, the 10th batch comprised 40 students, including 20 each from Kerala and Ladakh, along with four accompanying teachers. The programme was coordinated by a core team led by Prof. J. Longkumer, Nodal Officer, along with Dr. Kevineituo Bier, Dr. Sabbithi Pavan, Nodal Faculty, and Peter Ki, PRO, Nagaland University.
The valedictory programme was chaired by Dr. Kevineituo Bier, Assistant Professor, Department of Soil Science. Dr. Sabbithi Pavan, Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the role of the youth exchange initiative in strengthening national integration, cultural understanding, and academic collaboration. A special number by the EU Choir added cultural vibrancy to the programme.
Prof. J. Longkumer presented a brief report on the academic sessions, interactive discussions, exposure visits, and cultural exchange activities conducted as mandated by NEC. She noted that the programme was carefully planned and monitored to ensure its objectives were effectively achieved.
During their stay, participants were exposed to the culture, traditions, and tribal heritage of Nagaland through academic lectures, village visits, traditional weaving demonstrations, heritage site tours, and community interactions across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Medziphema Campus, encouraged participants to share their experiences through workshops and social media to promote informed understanding of the North Eastern region. Prof. L. Tongpang Longkumer, Dean (In-charge), School of Agricultural Sciences, reminded participants that they now serve as ambassadors of the North Eastern Region.
Teachers and students from Kerala and Ladakh shared their feedback, expressing appreciation for the hospitality, academic engagement, and cultural exposure. The programme concluded with a cultural presentation celebrating unity in diversity and a vote of thanks delivered by Peter Ki.