Youth from Northeast showcase talent through sports and culture at finale in Manekshaw Centre
NEW DELHI: In an effort to bridge cultural distances and bring young people from the Northeast closer to the national mainstream, the Assam Rifles and the Northeast Association for Social Welfare Foundation on Thursday concluded ‘Unity Utsav 2.0’ — a nationwide youth initiative aimed at promoting national integration through sports and cultural exchange.
Held under the theme “One Nation, One Dream,” the two-phase programme brought together youth from all eight Northeastern states, providing a platform to showcase their sporting talent and cultural heritage while fostering emotional and social connectivity with the rest of the country.
The first phase, conducted from February. 9 to 12, featured multi-discipline sports competitions including football, volleyball and badminton, highlighting teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship among participants.
The second phase culminated in a grand cultural programme in New Delhi, where traditional folk dances and musical performances from across the Northeast celebrated India’s diversity and shared identity.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai attended the closing ceremony and presented trophies to winning teams alongside Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, Director General of Assam Rifles.
Officials said the initiative builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2025, which received guidance from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and aims to empower youth through inclusive engagement beyond the force’s traditional security mandate.
