GUWAHATI: In a significant announcement at the golden jubilee celebrations of the Karbi Youth Festival (KYF), Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed a commitment of Rs 3 crore annually from the next year onwards to support the event. The celebration held at Taralangso in Diphu, where the Chief Minister addressed a massive gathering.
CM Sarma emphasized the historical significance of the Karbi Youth Festival, labeling it as the oldest festival in the Northeast dedicated to the promotion of folk culture. Expressing his vision, he called for a transformation of the festival into a leading youth event. He stated, "I feel that the time has come for us to take this youth festival to a new dimension. We can convert this youth festival into a leading festival in the country by building on the success of the last 50 years."
The financial assistance, amounting to Rs 3 crore annually, will be provided by the Department of Culture of the Assam Government. The Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to nurturing and promoting the cultural heritage of the region through this grant.
CM Sarma highlighted the festival's historical role in fostering unity, peace, and brotherhood among various communities residing in Karbi Anglong. He expressed confidence that the Karbi Youth Festival will play a crucial role in spreading Karbi culture and heritage not only within the country but also beyond its borders.
Notable dignitaries present at the event included Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Tuliram Ronghang, Assam Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Dr Nomal Momin, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Yogen Mohan, and Power Minister Nandita Garlosa.
This financial commitment reflects the government's recognition of the cultural significance of the Karbi Youth Festival and its dedication to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the region. The annual grant is expected to contribute significantly to the festival's growth, solidifying its position as a premier event celebrating the diverse folk culture of the Northeast.