Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Interacts with Participants of Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme

Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on 22nd April virtually interacted with students of Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme, a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). The programme was attended by Secretary, Sanjay Jaju, Joint Secretary Niraj Kumar among other dignitaries.

As part of the programme, the Union Minister, MDoNER interacted with the students of Batch–13, 14 & 15 at IIT Guwahati, Assam University and Tezpur University, respectively. The batches comprised 100 students, including 20 students each from Chhattisgarh, New Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Goa, participating in the exchange programme scheduled from 15 March 2026 to 10 April 2026.

The interaction programme commenced with opening remarks by Shri Niraj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of DoNER, followed by a keynote address by the Union Minister, MDoNER. During the interactive session, students shared their experiences and reflections on the exposure visit:

Ms. Ragini Sahu from Durg, Chhattisgarh highlighted the unique aspects of the NER, including visits to diverse locations, and emphasized that such exposure visits are extremely valuable and should be encouraged for students across India.

Another participant from Chhattisgarh, Mr. Harish Kumar Sahu shared that after visiting the North East, he truly understood why the region is referred to as “Ashtalakshmi”, symbolizing its richness and diversity.

Sharing her experience, Ms. Ifrah Kawa from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, appreciated the warm hospitality of the region and expressed her interest in the hospitality management and cultural richness of the NER.

Reflecting on her visit, Ms. Shaily Tiwari from Barkatullah University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh highlighted her enriching experience, including visits to the Air Force Station, interactions with officials from the Assam Rifles, and exposure to terrace farming, bamboo houses, and the diverse tribal cultures of the region.

Reflecting on his experience, Mr. Vikas Bali from Central University of Rajasthan stated that his visit to the North Eastern Region was truly enriching. He expressed that seeing the NER firsthand gave him a deeper appreciation of its natural beauty, culture, and diversity, making the experience both insightful and memorable.