Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, a three-day cultural festival, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on December 6, 2024. Celebrated for the first time, the event ran from December 6 to 8 and showcases the vibrant cultural diversity of Northeast India, featuring traditional arts, crafts, and cultural practices.
The event was attended by Officer Trainees of the Indian Forest Service (IFS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), who had the opportunity to listen to the Prime Minister’s inspiring address. PM Modi emphasized the significance of promoting the unique products of the Northeastern states on a global scale. He highlighted the government’s efforts under the One District One Product (ODOP) campaign, aimed at bringing the distinctive products of each district into international markets.
Calling the Northeast the “Ashtalakshmi” of India, the Prime Minister underlined the region’s pivotal role in the nation’s cultural and economic growth. He expressed his vision of empowering local communities by preserving their heritage and creating global demand for their crafts and products.
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav has drawn significant attention for its rich display of traditions, offering a glimpse into the unparalleled cultural and ecological richness of Northeast India, and inspiring future administrators to actively contribute to the region’s development.
