- DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described
youth as the “heartbeat of the nation” while addressing the inaugural function
of the Northeast National Service Scheme (NSS) Festival 2025 at Dzüü Resort,
Rüsoma village, Kohima, on Wednesday.
Neiphiu Rio speaking at the inaugural programme of the North
East NSS festival in Rüsoma on Wednesday. (DIPR)
- According to a DIPR update, the event, themed ‘Viksit
Bharat,’ has brought together over 300 NSS volunteers and officials from across
the northeastern states, though Mizoram could not participate due to unforeseen
circumstances.
- Organised by the NSS Cell under the Directorate of Youth
Resources & Sports, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate of NSS,
Guwahati, and sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the
week-long event will culminate on June 14.
- Rio, while hailing the NSS platform as a "celebration
of unity in diversity," placed strong emphasis on the role of youth in
shaping the future of the country. “The youth are the heartbeat of any nation.
You are our hope and our future. This festival is not just a gathering—it is a
celebration of our shared humanity, our diverse cultures, and our common
aspirations,” he said.
- Calling on the young volunteers to embrace cultural pride
and mutual respect, Rio encouraged participants to form bonds and friendships
that go beyond state lines. “Each of our states is unique, with its own
languages, dances, festivals, and traditions. Yet it is through platforms like
NSS that we come together to understand, respect, and learn from one another,”
he said, urging the youth to “stay connected and foster lasting ties.”
- Rio also praised the selfless work done by NSS volunteers in
areas like health camps, blood donations, disaster relief, and cleanliness
drives, terming them “acts of nation-building.” Commending their dedication, he
said, “You are already leaders, serving your communities with compassion and
responsibility.”
