KOLKATA : Biswadeep Shome, former middle level executive of Air India Engineering, on January 2, lauded KRC Foundations for initiating a month-long rally aimed at uniting all the Northeastern states, scheduled to begin from Kolkata on January 4.

The rally will conclude on February 4 in Guwahati. Describing the initiative as thoughtful and forward-looking, Shome said the rally would serve as a platform to showcase the rich cultural diversity, traditions, and heritage of the Northeast. He noted that many people across the country remain unfamiliar with the region’s customs, festivals, and social practices, and said the rally would help bridge that gap by creating direct engagement and awareness.

Emphasising the importance of such outreach programmes, Shome said initiatives like this help challenge long-held stereotypes and foster mutual respect. He also expressed hope that the organisers would consider expanding the concept in the future by organising a cycle rally to reach more people at the grassroots level.

Several other speakers also praised the initiative, calling it a meaningful and timely step towards national integration. They pointed out that despite its cultural richness and strategic importance, the Northeast has often remained on the margins of mainstream narratives.

According to them, the month-long rally has the potential to bring the region into sharper national focus by highlighting both its diversity and shared values. Terming the effort noble and necessary, the speakers said the rally would help elevate the Northeastern states collectively, create wider awareness about the region and its people, and strengthen emotional and cultural ties between the Northeast and the rest of the country.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally