HO CHI MINH, 30 Oct (PTI): The third edition of the Northeast India Festival (NIF) – providing a platform for promoting trade, investment, tourism, education and cultural ties between India and Vietnam – concluded on Sunday.
The three-day festival, held here in Vietnam for the first time, was attended by union Minister of State for External Affairs Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Indian Ambassador to Vietnam Sandeep Arya, Indian Consul General Madan Mohan Sethi, Vietnamese leaders and officials, investors, entrepreneurs, tour operators, fashion designers, singers and musicians from the eight northeastern states of India.
The consul general said on the occasion that the event has not only strengthened the existing bonds between India and Vietnam but has also laid the foundation for even deeper collaboration in the future.
The festival’s chief organiser, Shyamkanu Mahanta, said that they received overwhelming response and support from Vietnam’s stakeholders, local communities, and representatives from India.
“We engaged in fruitful discussions on education exchange programmes between India and Vietnam, as well as collaborative efforts in tourism. The outcomes have far exceeded our expectations,” Mahanta said.
Talks will be held with stakeholders to establish direct flight routes between Vietnam and Northeast India, he said.
“The Northeast Festival is not merely a cultural show but a platform for forging stronger ties in economy, education, and cross-cultural connections,” Mahanta added.
Discussions on education exchange, trade and business initiatives, flight connectivity, and tourism collaborations were held during the first two days of the festival.
Stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and representatives from educational institutions came together to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration, creating a positive atmosphere for progress and development, Mahanta said.
The last day of the festival showcased a kaleidoscope of northeastern dance forms, including Bagrumba (Bodo), Bhortaal (Assam), drum ensemble & flute (Meghalaya), Tiwa dance (Assam), Mwsaglangnai (Bodo), Bihu dance (Assam), Mishing (Assam), Daosri Delai (Bodo), drum beating (Meghalaya), and Jarapagla (Bodo).
A folk performance by Vietnamese artists was also presented on the occasion.
Renowned bands from Northeast India and Vietnam, including Bright Lights, rapper Huynh Cong Hieu, The Kod Crew, Baba, Summersalt India, Saigon LH, and Bollywood DJ Cyco also performed on the concluding day.
A fashion show featuring famed designers of Northeast India showcased exquisite designs and rich fabrics from the region. Models from Vietnam graced the runway, presenting creations by Bidyut & Rakesh, Daisy G Momin under the label Daisy’s’, Anjushree Saikia under the label ‘Ura Maku’, and Babbi Kevichusa under the label ‘Bambi’.
The festival also featured an ‘Incredible India’ exhibition, showcasing the diverse destinations of India.
A dedicated textile zone, state-specific exhibition zones representing various northeastern states, and themes related to the Act East policy, tea, industry, and tourism were part of the exhibition organised as a part of the festival.
Authentic delicacies and food products of the NE states also attracted a large number of visitors to the stalls set up at the festival.
The first two editions of the festival were held at Thailand’s capital Bangkok. (PTI)