5-May-2022: North East Festival 2022 Concludes With Great Enthusiasm & Public Participation in Guwahati
President Shri Ramnath Kovind attended the Valedictory Ceremony along with eminent dignitaries such as Minister for Law & Justice, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Shipping Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, CM of Assam Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, MoS, MDoNER, Shri B.L. Verma & Governor of Assam & Nagaland, Shri Jagdish Mukhi
Welcoming all the Chief Ministers and dignitaries to the grand event, Minister for Development of North East Region Shri G. Kishan Reddy said that he was really proud and honoured that President had participated in the event.
Calling it as a 'New Beginning and Dawn of Development' Shri Reddy said that such assemblage of thought, vision, expertise & efforts under the visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi will give further momentum to growth and development in the North Eastern Region.
Shri Reddy said that this Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations in North Eastern States is the testimony of the fact that both Central and State are working together with wholehearted cooperation and passionate commitment to the welfare of people.
Minister Shri Reddy said that Sports has been very close to the heart of every person in the region. In Sikkim, we organized a Futsal Tournament that is based on the theme of a 'Drug Free Society'. In Manipur, a week long Regional Sports meet has been organized. With activities ranging from football, badminton, archery and boxing, the event has received wide popularity especially among the Yuva Shakti.
President Shri Ramnath Kovind highlighted in ceremony that key areas like Agriculture, employment generation, skill development, connectivity and infrastructure, social services including health and education and Tourism development in the NER along with infrastructural development have gone a significant change.
1-May-2022: Celebration of North East Festival, as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav with theme the “Role of Women in development of North East
Today Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission R.D department and department of Social Welfare and Social Education Government of Tripura has jointly organised “North East Festival as a part of Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav under the aegis of MDoNER, with theme “Role of Women in development of North East.”
The programme was inaugurated by the dignitaries of different departments of Govt. of India and Tripura, Smt Pratima Bhowmik, Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma Deputy CM, Govt. of Tripura, Smt Santana Chakma Minister for Social Welfare and Social Education Govt. of Tripura, Air Marshal, Shri, Anjan Kumar Gogoi, Member NECC, Shri A. Roy Secretary of Planning and Coordination Department, Govt. of Tripura, Smt. Antara Sarkar Deb, Zila Sabhadipati West Tripura, Shri. Debapriya Bardhan DM& Collector West Tripura, and Smt. Barnali Goswami Chairperson of Tripura Commission for Women.
The programme mainly focused on recognition of women who have significantly contributed in socio-economic development of North East India. A total of 19 women achiever North Eastern states have been awarded. Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission has also launched a book containing 50 success stories of rural women, who are contributing towards building the rural economy.
One achiever from each of the states has shared their encouraging journey, how they are contributing and making impact on the society which was enlightening and encouraging for other women of the country.
Beside these, another 56 women achievers from Tripura have also been facilitated for their significant contribution in socio-economic empowerment from different department of Govt. of Tripura. The North East Festival has also been organised and celebrated across the state by community level organisation like SHG Village Organisations (VO), Cluster Level Federations (CLF), by organising event on women and child development, entrepreneurship development especially women farmer and entrepreneur.
28-Apr-2022: ‘North East Festival’ Starts With Much Fanfare and Public Participation
The opening day of ‘North East Festival’ started with much fanfare and public participation. Ministry of DoNER, celebrating the legacy of 75 years of India's independence, has organized the 'North East Festival' as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM).
Taking forward the celebrations, Chief Minister of Manipur Shri N. Biren Singh inaugurated the opening ceremony of the North East Regional Sports Meet at Khuman Lampak, Imphal. This sports meet would enable the budding sportspersons in the state to compete with each other. Competitions were also held throughout the day at other locations in Manipur where youth participated in table tennis tournament and football match.
The ‘North East Festival’ also commenced at Guwahati, Assam today. Taking forward the initiative of ‘Jan Bhagidari’, events such as half marathon, walkathon and cyclathon was held under the theme of ‘Healthy Sports for a Healthy Mind’.
Besides, AKAM celebrations held in Mizoram today as well. Events such as mini-marathons and cycling rallies were organized across Siaha District & Lunglei District. With emphasis on 'Jan Bhagidari', people from all sections of society participated in the events. Assam Rifles personnel took part in the cycling rally of Lunglei District in Mizoram along with the Civilians
Cultural festivities also began in Nagaland today. The festival was celebrated at Shilloi Hotel Japfu, Kohima under the theme ‘Journey of Nagaland since Statehood’. The programme was chaired by Commissioner, Nagaland. Cultural extravagance, choral and a presentation was showcased in the programme. Photography Exhibition on the History of Nagaland was also showcased by the State IPR Department.
North East Festival Celebrations started with full public participation of citizens in Sikkim. A debate competition was organized on “Local Government making a mass development" at Soreng District. Painting, debate and essay competitions were held in one of the remote block of Gyalsing District. District Quiz competition was held at Mangan District as well.
26-Apr-2022: Ministry of DoNER to organise North East Festival as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav
The Ministry of DoNER, as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, is organizing North East Festival across all the eight North Eastern States from 28th April, 2022 to 4th May, 2022. As India is celebrating its 75 years of its Independence, its glorious history, people, culture and achievements during the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Ministry intends to highlight the beauty of the North Eastern Region and its achievements in various fields through this festival.
The seven day festival, which is being celebrated at the Regional and State level, aims to showcase the achievements of North Eastern Region with the Spirit of "Hum Kisi Se Kam Nahi".
During the last eight years, the North Eastern Region has made impressive leads in connectivity. Whereas only Guwahati was linked by Railways prior 2014, today two more capitals have been linked subsequently and the work on connecting the rest of capital cities is underway. Similarly, work is underway to connect the State capitals of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland through Four Lanes and alternate two lane highways to Sikkim. The connectivity in interior areas is being given a fillip through the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojna. As on date, there are 15 operational airports in the North East and work on 24 projects for upgradation and modernization and creation of new airports is underway. In a similar way, projects are underway in telecom, power, international connectivity and Science and Technology.
Under the spirit of "Hum Kisi Se Kam Nahi, various programmes have been slotted across all the eight States. These programmes cover all the areas which are critical to the development of the North East including infrastructure, investment potential, energy needs and role of women in development of North East.
The Festival will also celebrate sportspersons of the North Eastern Region through full one week sports event which will be culminating on 3rd May, 2022 at Imphal. Further, the States will also be celebrating the whole week with a wide range of activities and events in a Jan Bhagidari mode.
President of India has consented to be present at the Valedictory function at Guwahati on 4th May, 2022.
8-Jan-2022: Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER) Shri G. Kishan Reddy virtually participates in the North East Festival
Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER) participated as the chief guest of the North East Festival virtually and interacted with entrepreneurs and potential startups. The North East Festival is one such programme that is being organized as a part of the DoNER Dialogues - a series of events that interact with various stakeholders such as the youth, and entrepreneurs of the North eastern region.
While addressing them, he said that the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi rightly said, the North East Region is fast becoming the ‘gateway of national growth’. ‘Vocal for local’ or Atmanirbhar Bharat has empowered people with the needed support at every step. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has placed development of NER as a foremost priority through the ‘Act East’ initiative. The Minister felt that the Northeastern region now has the opportunity to lead the development journey of New India. Over the last seven years, the Northeastern region has seen consistent progress in connectivity of roads, railways, airways, internet and logistics.
He said that as India is celebrating 75 years of Independence, the country has achieved tremendous growth in every sector. The entrepreneurs have contributed throughout the journey of economic progress and building brand India. The Minister observed that the region is a rich reservoir of natural resources, minerals and forest wealth, flora and fauna, fertile land, exotic fruits and vegetables and unparalleled scenic beauty. Along with this, the geographical proximity to South east Asia, the region has immense trade potential as well. With the required infrastructure and market linkages, the North East can become a trade hub to South east Asia. For this, large scale efforts are being undertaken to improve connectivity both within the nation and with other states.
The Minister stated that the capital connectivity project is set to open a new chapter in the growth story of the region. He felt that the pace of development is visible and that road and highway projects worth over 85,000 crores are in progress across the region. Even in the case of air connectivity, the scenario has improved by leaps and bounds as 4G mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi Connectivity for Village Panchayats is being enhanced. This growth in connectivity should soon turn into economic prosperity for the eight states and the people.
The Union Minister highlighted the role of an enabler, that the government was playing by tapping into the inherent potential of the region by creating a conducive business environment. He said that the Government aims to tap this potential across the tourism sector, organic farming, agriculture, horticulture, IT sector, services industry, textiles among others. In all these sectors there is immense opportunity for entrepreneurship and investment. Ever since Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the Startup India initiative, the entrepreneurial spirit has swept the nation. Along with several initiatives such as Start Up India, Stand Up India, MUDRA yojana, Start-Up North East movement is gaining huge momentum through the North East Venture fund scheme. The scheme is helping the youth explore the untapped potential of the States and also make a good living for themselves.
The Minister Sri Kishan Reddy also spoke about the celebrations of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and the initiative being taken up by the government in documenting the inspirational journey of 75 young entrepreneurs from NER who are under 40 years of age and felicitate them for their achievement. The Minister said that a book will be compiled and these young performers will also be given institutional support from IIM Shillong to help them scale up their business. He said that there will be a ripple effect and inspire others to start their own journey. He urged the startup owners to mentor budding entrepreneurs to help them further chart a future of growth and development. With the visible and rapid development in the last 7 years, The Honourable Minister has urged the business community to confidently carry the message of ‘investment ready North East’ across the country and beyond. The Hon’ble Minister thanked Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta and the organizing Team of North East Festival for bringing the various entrepreneurial stakeholders of North East on a common platform.
4-May-2022: President of India graces the 61st Annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced the 61st annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha at Tamulpur, Assam today (May 4, 2022).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the atmosphere of harmony and peace in the region is becoming stronger with the joint efforts of Union Government and State Governments of the North-Eastern region. He noted that developmental works have an important role in this change. He appreciated Central Government, State Governments and residents of the region for this change.
The President noted that the month of May is very important for the Bodo people as they remember Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma on May 1 which is his death anniversary. He said that Bodofa had spread the message of "live and let live". His message of maintaining harmony with all communities while conscious of Bodo self-pride will be forever relevant.
The President appreciated Bodo Sahitya Sabha for making invaluable contribution for past 70 years in strengthening the Bodo language, literature and culture. He said that the Founder-President of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Joy Bhadra Hagzer and General Secretary Sonaram Thosen had made commendable efforts in recognition of Bodo language. This Sabha has also played important role in use of Bodo language as the medium of school education and place in the higher education.
The President noted that so far 17 writers have been awarded Sahitya Akademi Awards for their works in Bodo language. And out of that 10 have been awarded for poetry work. This shows the natural inclination towards poetry among Bodo writers. He was happy to note that many women are writing in different genres of Bodo literature. But it has also been observed that only two women are among senior writers who have received the Sahitya Akademi Award for original works, he said. He urged 'Bodo Sahitya Sabha' to encourage women writers. He said that to keep any literature alive and relevant, the participation of the younger generation is very important. Therefore, special encouragement should also be given to young writers by Bodo Sahitya Sabha.
The President was happy to note that the works of other languages are being translated into Bodo language with great enthusiasm. He said that it is the characteristic of any vibrant literary community. He expressed confidence that such translated literature would give an opportunity to the readers of Bodo language to get acquainted with other Indian languages as well as world literature.
The President said that the conservation and promotion of local languages is the responsibility of the society and the government. He appealed the Government of Assam to make efforts to promote Bodo language.
10-Apr-2022: President of India Inaugurates Madhavpur Ghed Fair
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated five-day long Madhavpur Ghed Fair at Madhavpur Ghed, Porbandar in Gujarat today (April 10, 2022). Since 2018, the Government of Gujarat in association with the Ministry of Culture is organizing this fair every year to celebrate the sacred union of Lord Krishna and Rukmini.
Speaking on the occasion, the President extended his greetings to the fellow citizens on the occasion of Ram Navami. He said that Mahatma Gandhi had hoped for the establishment of Ram-Rajya in modern India on the ideals of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram. President Kovind said that it was his privilege to inaugurate the Madhavpur Ghed fair organized in the village associated with the life of Shri Krishna and near Porbandar, the birth place of Bapu.
The President said that folk-story of marriage of Shri Krishna and Rukmini shows that how ancient is the cultural unity of India and how deep were the roots of our social harmony. Born in today's Uttar Pradesh, Shri Krishna makes Gujarat his workplace and marries Rukmini, a princess from today's north-eastern region of our country. According to folk belief, the land of Madhavpur Ghed village has been a witness to their union.
The President said that fairs, festivals and pilgrimage sites have kept our vast country tied in the thread of social and cultural unity since ancient times. The Madhavpur Fair connects Gujarat with north-east region in an integral bond. Through such events, people, especially the young generation gets a chance to gain knowledge about our heritage, culture, art, handicrafts and traditional cuisine. These events also encourage tourism.
The President was happy to note that the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region is also associated in organizing the fair on a larger scale this year and that many cultural festivals are being organized in the north-eastern states on the same day. He expressed hope that this fair will have a special identity in our cultural tradition.
The President was happy to note that enterprising people of Gujarat keep balance between tradition and modernity while marching on the path of development. He noted that according to NITI Aayog’s report for the year 2020-21 for assessing the performance of various states towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, Gujarat has ranked first in the country in terms of providing access to a healthy life to people of all age groups. Also, on the parameters of inclusive development of industry, innovation and infrastructure, Gujarat's performance has been the best among all the states.
The President said that fair of Madhavpur Ghed as well as the various functions organized on the occasion in several temples in Gujarat and in many places in north-east India is a celebration of India's cultural, spiritual and social unity. He expressed happiness that this festival of connecting the people of the entire country on an emotional level is being celebrated along with the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. He said that Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav is basically being celebrated with the aim of strengthening the sense of national pride. All the festivals associated with Madhavpur Ghed fair also underline the unity and diversity of India.
24-Mar-2018: Ministry of Culture organises Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat.
In a unique initiative, the famous Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat will see its first-ever cultural integration with the North-East with which it is said to share its roots. The Ministry of Culture is organizing the Madhavpur Mela from 25th to 28th March, 2018 in Madhavpur Ghed, District Porbandar in Gujarat in a grand way. Dr Mahesh Sharma said that the purpose of this integration is to bring various parts of the country especially the North-East, close to each other under the banner of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat announced by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.
The Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat shares its connect to the Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The Mishmi Tribe traces its ancestry to the legendary King Bhishmak and through him to his daughter Rukmini and Lord Krishna. For the first time ever, the festival will celebrate the immortal journey which Rukmini undertook from Arunachal Pradesh to Gujarat with Lord Krishna, Dr Mahesh Sharma explained. Bhismaknagar, located near Roing in the lower Dibang Valley district, also finds mention in Kalika Purana.
The IGNCA, Manav Sangrahalay of Ministry of Culture and States of Gujarat, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and others have joined hands to give a new dimension to the festival. A Jatha of 150 persons from the North-East will be given a traditional welcome at Madhavpur Mela as representatives of Rukmini’s family. The entire concept of celebration this year is in the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ campaign of the Prime Minister and symbolizes unity in diversity of the country and establishes the East to West connect. All States & Union Territories except West Bengal are participating in the Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat campaign and have been paired for the purpose of exchanges at the level of students, sports and through culture.
The 4 day ‘utsav will see a vibrant cultural trail of art, dance, music, poetry, story-telling and folk drama from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and other North-Eastern States with the aim to integrate the rich cultures of the two regions.
Madhavpur Ghed, a small but culturally significant village, is the place where, according to folklore, Lord Krishna married Rukmini, the daughter of King Bhishmak. Madhavpur lies on the seashore, close to Porbandar. A 15th century Madhavrai temple marks the site. This event is commemorated by a cultural fair held every year, commencing on Ram Navami. A colorful chariot carrying the idol of Krishna circumnavigates the village and the festivities usually continue for five days. This year the Ministry of Culture is collaborating with Government of Gujarat to scale up the festival by incorporating the various vital elements.
Madhavpur Mela will witness for the first time ever the magnificent performances from the North-East, especially Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Troupes from Assam will perform Rukmini-Haran, a popular folk theatre of the region. Musical troupe from Manipur will sing songs related to Rukmini in the Khullong Ishei and Nat genŕe. Dance-dramas based on Rukmini-Krishna legends from Arunachal and Manipur and folk dance of the Idu Mishmi tribe from Arunachal will be part of the varied repertoire.
An exposition and sale of art and crafts of Gujarat and handloom and handicrafts products from Arunachal, Manipur and other North-Eastern states will be part of the event. A Visual Art Exhibition on Krishna and Rukmini put together by different institutions of Ministry of Culture like the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts and Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalay highlighting the variegated legends of Krishna and Rukmini will be organised at an exhibition space being created for the purpose.