19th National Youth Festival kicks off in Guwahati

The five-day-long 19th National Youth Festival-2015 kicked off today, showcasing the cultural diversity of Indian states and prompting leaders to exude confidence on the power of the country's youth.
A total of 3,249 participants, including six from abroad, would present their prowesses in different cultural activities such as drama, dance and music.
"Though I am 80 years old, I am feeling very young and one of you. Today Guwahati has become a mini-India and it has become a garden, even more beautiful than the Mughal Garden and Brindavan Garden," Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said while inaugurating the cultural extravaganza.

With its diversity and vibrancy, India has the capability to become a great nation in the world soon, he said.
"In spite of all diversity, unity is still there. In spite of troubles and challenges, India is growing strong. Youth has great potential," Gogoi said.
Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said the society would be like what the youth of India decides.

"Youth symbolises power and strength. So far, the youth of the Northeast has not diverted all its energy into positive development. If we do so, we can transform Northeast into a vibrant region in India," he said.

Stating that India was seeing exuberance in the youth, Rijiju said no one can stop the country from becoming a super power.
"We will not become a super power if we do not wish to be a super power," he added.