Kohima, 29th September 2026 (Nokinketer News): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called upon the youth of the State to acquire practical skills, explore entrepreneurship and contribute towards building a self-reliant Nagaland.
Addressing the State Level Youth Festival 2026 organised by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports at the I.G. Stadium here on Tuesday, the Governor congratulated the participating youth and appreciated their talent, hard work and achievements.
Yadav said a youth festival was more than a competition, providing a platform for learning, interaction, creativity and personal growth. He encouraged participants from different districts to build friendships, exchange ideas and appreciate one another’s cultures and talents.
Referring to the theme of this year’s festival, “Youth, Skills and a Self-Reliant Nagaland,” the Governor said talent needed to be supported by knowledge, practical skills, discipline and continuous learning. He encouraged young people to explore diverse fields, including digital technology, entrepreneurship, agriculture, tourism, handicrafts, creative industries and other emerging sectors.
He observed that government employment alone could not meet the aspirations of every young person and stressed the need to explore diverse avenues for livelihood and economic independence. With skill, determination, perseverance and an enterprising spirit, he said, the youth could make a significant contribution towards a self-reliant Nagaland.
The Governor also appreciated the “Skill Based Economic Sustenance Initiative of I.G. Academy Students” under the Department, particularly the display of handmade products and creative works by students of the State Sports Academy.
Highlighting the role of sports in character building, Yadav said sports instilled discipline, teamwork, perseverance and leadership. He encouraged sportspersons to develop additional skills beyond their sporting careers.
Emphasising the importance of preserving Nagaland’s cultural heritage, the Governor said folk songs, dances and traditional art forms reflected the State’s identity, history and collective heritage. He urged the youth to learn about their heritage, respect the traditions of others and use creativity to present traditional art and culture in new and meaningful ways.
Addressing participants in declamation, poetry writing and painting, Yadav encouraged them to read widely, remain curious and think critically. He also stressed the responsible use of technology and the importance of distinguishing reliable information from misinformation.
Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, the Governor said the youth would play a central role in shaping the country’s future. He highlighted Nagaland’s strengths, including its talented youth, rich cultural traditions, natural beauty and strong community bonds, as well as opportunities in tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, sports and creative industries.
He urged the participants to take part in the festival with enthusiasm, sincerity and confidence while respecting fellow participants. Prizes, he said, represented moments of achievement, but the knowledge, discipline and experience gained through participation could remain valuable throughout life.
Yadav also called upon the youth to remain curious, acquire new skills and cultivate the habit of hard work while respecting teachers, mentors, parents and elders. He expressed confidence that with education, skills, discipline and perseverance, Nagaland’s youth could overcome challenges, create opportunities and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Governor congratulated all participants and appreciated the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, organisers and others associated with the festival. He expressed hope that the State Level Youth Festival would continue to grow as a platform for recognising and celebrating the talent, ideas and aspirations of Nagaland’s youth.
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