New Delhi: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in “NeST Fest-2026,” organized by My Home India at the Talkatora Stadium in New Delhi. On this occasion, he welcomed students and youth from the North-Eastern states on behalf of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and congratulated the My Home India team for successfully hosting the event.
The Chief Minister expressed that seeing such vibrant youth energy gives him a glimpse of India’s bright future. He noted that these young individuals are not just students, but representatives of the nation’s youth power, possessing the courage and capability to turn the grandest dreams into reality.
He emphasized that NeST Fest is not merely a routine event, but a symbol of North-East India’s rich culture, glorious traditions, and national unity. Highlighting the cultural and geographical similarities between the hill regions of the North-East and Uttarakhand, he remarked that such gatherings deepen mutual affection between the two areas.
The Chief Minister remarked that North-East India has become a bridge of emotional integration across the nation. Initiatives by My Home India to connect North-Eastern youth with different parts of the country are strengthening national unity, aligning directly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Describing the North-East as a shining crown of Indian culture, he noted that India’s diversity and beauty remain incomplete without it. He highlighted the strategic importance of the region as a strong guardian of national security and listed icons like Mary Kom, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bhaichung Bhutia, and the late Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, who have brought immense glory to the nation through their talent and dedication.
The Chief Minister stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always held the North-East close to his heart, viewing it as a key growth engine for the country’s development. Moving beyond the decades-old “Look East” policy, effective steps have been taken toward “Act East” and “Fast East.”
He pointed out that since 2014, rapid infrastructure development has taken place across the North-East in roads, bridges, tunnels, waterways, gas grids, mobile connectivity, and optical fiber. Projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway have unlocked new avenues for trade and economic growth, positioning the region as a central driver of national progress.
The Chief Minister emphasized that youth lie at the core of these development efforts, with the Prime Minister viewing them not just as the future, but as the present’s most transformative force. Initiatives like Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, and Fit India are actively creating platforms for young talent to excel.
Unprecedented work has been done in education, skill development, and sports across the region, with projects worth thousands of crores on the ground, alongside new schools, medical colleges, and higher learning institutes.
Referring to the National Games hosted by Uttarakhand in 2025—which saw over 10,000 athletes participate—he shared that the ceremonial torch was passed to the North-East. He expressed confidence that the upcoming National Games in the North-East will offer fresh opportunities for athletes and deliver an exceptional experience just as in Uttarakhand.
Welcoming North-Eastern students pursuing their education in Uttarakhand, the Chief Minister assured them, “Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is your own home.” He reiterated that the safety, dignity, and progress of youth from the North-East residing in the state remain a top priority for the government.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister encouraged the youth to study hard, excel in sports, dream big, and pursue their goals with unwavering dedication to play a leading role in building a ‘Developed India’ (Viksit Bharat).
