The serene surroundings of Dzüü Resort in Rüsoma Village, Kohima, came alive on June 11 as Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio formally inaugurated the 2025 edition of the Northeast National Service Scheme (NSS) Festival. The event marked a vibrant beginning to a week-long celebration of youth leadership, cultural exchange, and public service, bringing together hundreds of volunteers from across the northeastern region of India. Organised by the NSS Cell under the Directorate of Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate of NSS, Guwahati, and sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, the festival is themed “Viksit Bharat”, reflecting the national vision of building a developed and inclusive India.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Chief Minister Rio called the festival a “celebration of unity in diversity” and praised the youth as the backbone of national progress. “The youth are the heartbeat of the nation,” he said. “This is not just an event, but a powerful symbol of our collective dream for a brighter future.” The festival, which runs from June 10 to 14, has brought together over 300 NSS volunteers and officials from eight northeastern states. However, the Mizoram delegation could not attend due to unforeseen circumstances. During his speech, Dr. Rio reflected on his own upbringing in a disciplined environment, shaped by his army family background. He highlighted values such as integrity, service, and discipline as crucial ingredients in leadership and community development.
“These values are the foundation of good governance and public service,” he remarked. He commended the ongoing work of NSS volunteers across the country, particularly their involvement in blood donation drives, health and hygiene awareness programmes, disaster response, and cleanliness campaigns. He described their contributions as true examples of nation-building through selfless service. Quoting the NSS motto “Not Me, But You,” Dr. Rio encouraged the volunteers to remain committed to serving their communities. “You are already leaders, not by title but through your actions. The world needs more of this spirit,” he told the young audience.
