Union Minister for the Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, virtually interacted with the 12th batch of the ongoing Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme in Arunachal Pradesh today. Addressing the participating students, the Minister stated that the program embodies the spirit of "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" (One India, Better India). He added that the program fostered meaningful connections between the Northeast and the rest of the country, bringing together ideas, cultures, and aspirations. Describing the eight states of the Northeast as "Ashtalakshmi," Mr. Scindia encouraged students to deepen their understanding of the region's languages, traditions, and development potential. Speaking about tourism in Northeast India, the Minister highlighted its immense potential for economic growth and job creation, noting that the region possesses vast and untapped tourism opportunities.
The Ashtalakshmi Darshan is a flagship Youth Exchange Programme organized and funded by the Ministry to promote national integration and strengthen bonds among young people from diverse regions of the country. The 14-day program includes academic sessions, visits to historical sites, cultural exchanges, and interactions with local communities.