Union Minister for the Development of the North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, stated that the North Eastern states act as a bridge between India and the Global South, capable of driving economic and cultural exchange on a global scale. He made this statement while addressing the 15th edition of NEtym 2026, the annual cultural festival of the Northeast Cell at Hindu College of the University of Delhi, on Saturday. Mr. Scindia emphasized that with 93 percent literacy and unparalleled cultural depth, the North East must lead India in all areas. He also stated that NEtym serves as a dynamic platform that reflects the capabilities, energy, and cultural richness of the North East, which is reverentially referred to as the "Ashtalakshmi" of India. The Minister stressed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the approach to the North East has transitioned from intent to implementation, ensuring that opportunity is defined by access and inclusion. He also paid tribute to cultural icons such as Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg, noting that the North East remains a repository of unparalleled artistic and cultural wealth.