Hyderabad: Hyderabad Telangana North East Connect Phase 2 opened Tuesday evening at Raj Bhavan, where Hon’ble Governor Shri Jishnu Dev Verma inaugurated the techno-cultural festival. The initiative aimed to deepen cooperation between Telangana and the eight North Eastern states through culture, technology and human development. It followed a strong first phase that drew participation in sessions on women’s empowerment, cinema, painting, photography and sports.
During the inauguration, the Governor said Phase 2 would build on earlier progress and strengthen ties between the regions. He described Hyderabad as a natural host because the city leads in technology, pharmaceuticals and innovation. Moreover, he noted that the Connect supports the national vision of Viksit Bharat. “Such platforms help regions grow together, create opportunities for youth and build bridges of understanding across India,” he said.
He also quoted former President Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and urged the gathering to “let their dreams speak.” According to him, true dreams encourage people to strive harder and stay committed. The Governor added that the North East reflects confidence and energy today, while Telangana can share its strengths to support that momentum. He referred to his visits to T-Hub and WE-Hub and explained that both institutions can guide start-ups, create jobs and support entrepreneurs across both regions.
Hyderabad, Telangana North East Connect praised for inclusive spirit
Earlier, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Shri M. Dana Kishore, delivered the welcome address. He said the Connect reflects shared responsibility and a growing partnership anchored in institutional collaboration. Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries and Legislative Affairs, Shri D. Sridhar Babu, addressed the gathering and recalled an interaction with students from Nagaland. He said they appreciated Hyderabad because “no one asks us where we are from; they just accept us,” which he described as the city’s defining spirit.
The Minister said the initiative represents “a connection of hearts, not just a regional link,” as both regions value tradition, nature and warm human relationships. He expressed confidence that the coming decade could become the “decade of the North East,” with opportunities in several sectors. He also highlighted Telangana’s digital learning network through TSAT and outlined Hyderabad’s long-term goal of becoming a global pharmaceutical leader by 2047. Furthermore, he suggested that the T-Fibre model could strengthen healthcare delivery in the North East. He added that Telangana wished to walk with the region “as a trusted partner.”
Health Secretary Smt. Christina Z. Chongthu, IAS, praised the Governor’s vision and described the Connect as a strong bridge linking the two regions. She said collaboration and shared learning are essential for a resilient future. Diplomats, senior officials and leaders from technology, health and pharmaceuticals also attended the event. The gathering included V. Rajanna of TCS, Smt. Mahima Datla of Biological E Ltd and several CEOs from the IT and ITES sectors.