Participants and officials during the Interstate Youth Exchange Programme on January 17 at Kigwema Village, Kohima. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kigwema | January 17
The Interstate Youth Exchange Programme organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), Kohima, Nagaland, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, culminated on January 17 with a closing and certificate distribution ceremony held at Kigwema, Kohima.
Addressing the valedictory programme, Dr Vimezo Kere, president of the Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), stressed the importance of developing respect for others, particularly elders, irrespective of one’s status or physical attributes. He said youth must strive to become responsible contributors to society and lead their lives with purpose and discipline.
Highlighting different stages of life, Kere said that in one’s 30s, it is essential to build strength, mental resilience and physical agility, and avoid continued dependence on parents. In one’s 20s, he said, a person should focus on inner beauty rather than outward physical appearance.
“At 40, one should be rich,” Kere said, clarifying that richness does not imply accumulation of wealth or money, but being self-sufficient. At 50, he said, one should be wise, adding that wisdom is the result of consistency and right conduct from the early stages of adulthood.
As part of the programme, youth volunteers visited Naga Heritage Village, Kisama; State Cattle Breeding Farm, Kohima; Kohima War Cemetery; Eco Park; and the local market. The visits were aimed at showcasing local heritage and tourism, while enhancing local knowledge among the visiting participants.
Cleanliness drives were also carried out at Kigwema, and the participants visited Dzüleke and Khonoma villages in Kohima district.
The Interstate Youth Exchange Programme is organised annually by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to promote unity in diversity across the country. This year, Nagaland’s partner state for the exchange programme is Manipur.
A total of 37 participants from Manipur, drawn from the districts of Senapati, Imphal East, Imphal West, Ukhrul, Noney and Chandel, took part in the programme hosted by Nagaland. A youth team from Nagaland is scheduled to visit Manipur later this month.
During the valedictory event, volunteers shared their experiences, and participants were awarded certificates of completion.
