Silchar: The Assam–Mizoram Border Festival 2025 unfolded with energy and colour on Monday at the Central Field of the Dholai Co-District Commissioner’s Office. The event, organised by the Cachar district administration, marked the second edition of this cross-border cultural gathering and drew senior officials, dignitaries, and a large crowd from both states.

The festival aimed to deepen trust, encourage cultural exchange, and reinforce the shared commitment to peace along the inter-state border.

A high-level delegation from Mizoram attended the celebration, led by Kolasib Deputy Commissioner Robert C. Lalhmangaiha.

He was joined by Superintendent of Police Lalrinpuia Varte, Additional Deputy Commissioner B. Malsawmtluangi, DRDO Project Director Lalmuan Puia, Vairengte SDO (Civil) Lalbiakzauva, and the SDO of Kawrthah from Mamit district.

Representing Assam were Silchar MP Parimal Suklabaidya, Dholai MLA Nihar Ranjan Das, Cachar Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav, Dholai Co-District Commissioner Roktim Baruah, District Development Commissioner Norsing Bey, and several assistant commissioners and senior officials. Local residents filled the venue, turning it into a lively meeting point of cultures.

Addressing the audience, MLA Nihar Ranjan Das said he was pleased to see the festival grow into a meaningful link between the people of both states.

He said cultural exchange helps erase past misunderstandings and builds durable goodwill. He noted that continued interaction is essential for peace and mutual respect, and expressed confidence that the festival would strengthen bonds on both sides.

MP Parimal Suklabaidya spoke at length about the value of unity and reminded the gathering that the idea of national identity must always come first. He urged everyone to move forward with a constructive mindset, leaving behind past tensions.

Pointing to India’s ongoing infrastructure growth, including new four-lane highways under the Bharatmala project, he said improved connectivity will open economic opportunities, encourage trade, and deepen ties between Assam and Mizoram.

From the Mizoram delegation, Kolasib DC Robert C. Lalhmangaiha stressed the need to ensure that past incidents along the border are not repeated. Clear communication and administrative coordination, he said, are essential for maintaining peace. He thanked the Cachar district administration for creating a platform that encourages dialogue and expressed optimism that such efforts will build long-term trust.

Cachar Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav welcomed the guests and said the festival exemplified the spirit of unity and cultural diversity that defines the region. He said he was glad to see representatives from different communities in Assam interacting freely with visitors from Mizoram, adding that these exchanges strengthen both social and administrative ties.

Earlier in the programme, District Development Commissioner Norsing Bey delivered the welcome address. He noted that the Border Festival reflects the shared cultural roots and neighbourly connection between the two states.

He said people-to-people contact remains the most effective way to bridge gaps, and he appreciated the enthusiastic participation from both sides. He hoped the festival would continue to stand as a symbol of goodwill and cooperation.

The formal remarks gave way to a lively cultural showcase. Dance groups from Vairengte and Mamit performed traditional items, while Assam’s troupes added their own colour and rhythm. Visitors browsed craft and livelihood stalls set up by ASRLM and MZSRLM, which displayed the skills and entrepreneurship of artisans from both states.

The afternoon saw friendly football and volleyball matches, adding a sporting spark to the celebrations.

Representatives from Sub-HQ YMA Kolasib, MJA Kolasib district, and several cultural organisations also joined, enriching the day’s events.

The festival ended with a shared commitment from both states to continue building peace, cooperation, and lasting harmony along the Assam–Mizoram border.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally