Shillong, Meghalaya: Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)( mybharat.gov.in), under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, inaugurated the MY Bharat Budget Quest 2026 –North Eastern Region covering the 8 states of the North East, with Shillong being one of the 17 locations of the country. The two-day event commenced today at the Usoso Tham Auditorium, Shillong and will end on 13th April.
This milestone event brings together the finest young minds who have progressed through a rigorous multi-stage national competition and now stand at the threshold of a historic two-day brainstorming session bringing together academicians, industry leaders, and subject experts to deliberate on themes aligned with the Union Budget 2026, where more than 15,000 youth across 17 locations, representing all States and Union Territories, will engage throughout the country. This reflects the spirit of India’s Amrit Peedhi – a generation that is not merely inheriting the nation but actively shaping its future.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Chief Guest Sh. Mariahom Kharkhang (Retd. IPS officer and social worker) along with Sh. Dinobondhu Saha , Regional Director of MYBharat North-eastern region, Sh. Bimal Patrick Shah (Joint Director), Sh. Mehbub Alam Laskar (Joint Director), Sh. Ataur Rahman (Joint Director), and Sh. Bobby Wahlang (State Youth officer, Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, Govt of Meghalaya).
The event commenced with a felicitation ceremony, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment. The gathering resonated with patriotic spirit as participants joined in singing Vande Mataram.
Delivering the welcome address, Shri Bimal extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and all attendees. He emphasized the importance of active participation of youth in meaningful dialogue and discussions on national policies. He highlighted the need to nurture a generation that understands and contributes to the Union policy framework and nation-building.
In his address, Shri Bobby Walang urged the youth to reflect upon the ideals of Swami Vivekananda. He urged young individuals to channelize, organize, and utilize their energy constructively for the progress of the nation. He stressed that true development can only be achieved when youth rise above divisions of religion and caste.
The Chief Guest, Shri Mariam Kharkhang, addressed the gathering and highlighted the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. He encouraged the youth to embrace unity in diversity and work collectively toward national development. He also urged young people to contribute in every possible way, no matter how small, to achieve this vision. Emphasizing key social issues, He called for a firm stand against drug abuse, promoted the importance of Nari Shakti, and appreciated progressive initiatives such as the reservation bill. He also encouraged participants to explore and promote local cuisines.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Laskar, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, state government, officials, and all stakeholders for their support. After post lunch, a spirited “Sundays on Cycle” bicycle rally was organized in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India, witnessing enthusiastic participation from male participants.
Simultaneously, a Women’s Mock Parliament was conducted, providing a platform for 40 women participants referencing different ministries to engage in democratic discourse and leadership simulation. In a landmark expression of Nari Shakti, the Women’s Youth Parliament was conducted under the theme “Nari Shakti: Viksit Bharat Ki Awaaz”. Women participants comprehensively and inclusively engaged in a structured parliamentary style discussion on the Women’s Reservation Bill, articulating their perspectives in a simulated legislative format. The session, facilitated by a female speaker concluded with the collective adoption of a resolution, reflecting the voice of Nari Shakti.
The two-day programme has been thoughtfully curated to ensure meaningful engagement and dialogue. On 13 April 2026, the programme will commence with the Inaugural Ceremony, followed by a MY Bharat Session and two Expert Panel Discussions on diverse aspects and informative contents followed by a virtual interaction with the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the Hon’ble Union minister of youth affairs and sports.
