Governor Yadav’s Call for Self-Reliance at Youth Festival
KOHIMA, Sep 29 — Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Tuesday urged the state's youth to foster self-reliance and help build a self-reliant Nagaland during the State Level Youth Festival 2026. Speaking at the event held at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima, the Governor emphasized that preserving cultural heritage is integral to this goal, noting that folk songs, dances, and traditional art reflect the state's identity, history, and collective heritage.
The festival was organized by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports. In his address, Governor Yadav stressed that while understanding heritage is vital, young people must also look toward practical avenues for growth. He observed that government employment alone cannot meet every young person's aspirations, calling on the youth to acquire practical skills and embrace entrepreneurship as primary pathways to economic independence.
Skills, Discipline, and Emerging Sectors
Referring to the festival's theme, "Youth, Skills and a Self-Reliant Nagaland," Yadav said that talent must be supported by knowledge, practical skills, discipline, and continuous learning. He encouraged youth to explore diverse fields including digital technology, entrepreneurship, agriculture, tourism, handicrafts, creative industries, and other emerging sectors.
The Governor highlighted Nagaland’s strengths, which he described as talented youth, rich cultural traditions, natural beauty, and strong community bonds. He noted that these assets provide opportunities in tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, sports, and creative industries, urging students to leverage these local advantages for professional development.
Recognizing Student Initiatives and National Vision
During his address, Governor Yadav appreciated the "Skill-Based Economic Sustenance Initiative of I.G. Academy Students" under the Department. He specifically pointed to handmade products and creative works by State Sports Academy students as examples of youth engagement in skill development, validating their efforts as steps toward self-reliance.
Looking beyond the state's borders, Yadav referred to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, saying that youth are central to shaping India’s future. He concluded his address by reiterating that the combination of cultural pride and skill-based economic sustenance is essential for the state's progress.