The ongoing National Integration Tour (NIT), organized under Operation Sadbhavana for the youth of Manipur, has provided participants with an enriching journey across southern and western India. The tour, comprising 24 youths representing the Kuki, Meitei, Pangal, and Naga communities, symbolizes unity in diversity and aims to foster national pride and mutual understanding.
On March 7, the participants explored prominent cultural and scientific institutions in Thiruvananthapuram. They visited the Napier Museum, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, and Sri Chitra Art Gallery, gaining insights into Kerala’s rich heritage. A highlight of the day was their interaction with the governor of Kerala at Raj Bhavan, where the governor encouraged them to pursue education and uphold national unity. The group also visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, which offered valuable exposure to India’s achievements in space science and technology, conveyed IGAR(S) in a press release.
Continuing their journey, the participants visited Pangode Military Station on March 8, witnessing military activities and interacting with personnel. They also toured the Priyadarshini Planetarium and traveled to Kanyakumari, experiencing the confluence of cultures and natural beauty at India’s southern tip.
On March 10, the tour reached Mumbai, India’s financial and cultural hub. The participants explored iconic landmarks, including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Marine Drive, Bandra Bandstand, Juhu Beach, Girgaum Chowpatty, and the Bandra–Worli Sea Link. They also visited the Nehru Science Centre, Bombay Stock Exchange, Reserve Bank of India, Wankhede Stadium, Indian Government Mint, and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. The exposure extended to industrial landmarks associated with Reliance Group and Raymond Group, as well as glimpses of residences of renowned Bollywood personalities.
The multi-modal travel experience, involving flights, trains, and local transport, further enhanced their understanding of India’s vast geography and connectivity. The tour has provided invaluable exposure to India’s cultural heritage, strategic institutions, urban development, and regional cuisines, strengthening the spirit of national integration and inspiring the youth to contribute positively to society, it said.
