The North East Integration Rally 2026 (NEIR Fest) was formally launched on January 9 with an interaction programme involving the BTR Happiness Mission Team at Cygnett Park Meghna, Chapaguri, Assam. The event also focused on the preservation of Bodo culture and heritage.

The rally was flagged off on January 9, marking the beginning of a region wide initiative aimed at strengthening unity and people to people connections across the Northeast.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Kh. Gajendra Singh, Ramcharan Das, Biswadeep Gupta, Rajneesh Roy, Rajib Saha, and Madhab Chetri. Introducing the concept of the North East Integration Rally 2026, Biswadeep Gupta spoke about the need for dialogue, cultural understanding, and sustained engagement among the states of the region.

Musician and social worker Uttam Boro added a cultural note to the programme with a rendition of Zubeen Garg’s popular song Mayabini, which was warmly received by the audience.

Speaking on the occasion, Kh. Gajendra Singh referred to the turbulent period Manipur went through, particularly in 2023. He said there is no inherent conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities and attributed the unrest to external forces. He stressed that strong connectivity among all northeastern states is essential to prevent such forces from creating disturbances.

Prof. Dr. Sukamal Deb highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in development. He said natural resources alone cannot drive growth and emphasised that human intervention, innovation, and enterprise are necessary to convert resources into meaningful progress.

Rajib Saha spoke on HAM Radio communication, explaining its relevance, especially during emergencies. He also spoke about online and offline classes and examinations related to HAM Radio, encouraging greater awareness and participation.

All the speakers praised the organisers for their efforts in bringing together diverse voices and perspectives under the NEIR Fest 2026 platform, calling the initiative timely and significant for the region.

Alemoon Nessa, proprietor of A N Spice Industries in Bongaigaon, Assam, and a national awardee for promoting entrepreneurship and generating employment, was felicitated at the event. Sanjeev Baishya of Fine Line Communication, Guwahati, was also present at the event. 

Earlier, Kokrajhar Lok Sabha MP Joyanta Basumatary received the NEIR team at the venue and extended his best wishes for its grand success. The NEIR team felicitated him.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally