Gangtok, Sep 19: The North East NSS Festival 2025 concluded at Manan Kendra in Gangtok on Friday, marking the end of five days of youth service, cultural exchange, and regional collaboration.
The closing ceremony was attended by Secretary of the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs (SYA), Yangchen D Tamang, as Chief Guest, and Chief Engineer of SYA, Milan Kumari Pradhan, as Guest of Honour. State Nodal Officer Lalita Chettri delivered the welcome address and presented the festival report, highlighting the week’s activities and achievements.
In her address, Secretary Yangchen D Tamang congratulated volunteers for their active participation and described them as future leaders and change-makers of the nation. She highlighted the importance of such exchanges in fostering leadership qualities and mutual understanding. Special recognition was given to Arjun Pradhan, recipient of the My Bharat–NSS Award, who will be honoured by the President of India.
Regional Youth Officer Jangjilong, representing the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke about the government’s efforts to expand the National Service Scheme’s outreach and encouraged young people of the North East to embrace leadership roles. He emphasised that personal transformation among youth can create a ripple effect that strengthens the nation and contributes to Viksit Bharat.
During the ceremony, Arjun Pradhan was felicitated by the Chief Guest. The gathering observed a minute’s silence in memory of music maestro Zubeen Garg, who recently passed away in a tragic accident. Certificates and mementoes were also presented to contributors, including resource person Naresh Chettri and programme officers from Sikkim. Each of the eight North Eastern states received recognition for their participation.
Cultural and competitive events showcased exceptional talent. Arunachal Pradesh secured first place in cultural exchange competitions, followed by Mizoram and Assam. In the quiz competition, Manipur finished first, with Nagaland and Mizoram in second and third places. Sikkim won the PowerPoint competition on flora and fauna, followed by Mizoram and Manipur. The award for Best Contingent went to Team Tripura.
Organised by the Sikkim State NSS Cell with support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the festival was held from September 15 to 19, 2025. The vote of thanks was delivered by Deputy Director NSS, Pedenla Lachungpa, who commended the spirit of service and unity demonstrated throughout the festival.
