Abstract: The present study assesses the prevalence and pattern of risk-taking behavior among youth aged 15-24 years in Dimapur, Nagaland. Using a self administered questionnaire, we collected information on risk-taking behavior from 300 youth. Simple bivariate analysis was used in the study. Prevalence of current use of tobacco and alcohol use is high among youth. It is observed that young people start initiating into risk-taking behavior, early, during their teenage years. Initiating to smoking behavior is found to happen earlier than initiating into alcohol use or initiating sexual act (18.2 years). There is a gender differential in terms of engaging in risk-taking behaviors. Boys are found to initiate into risk-taking behavior earlier than girls and represent more in risk-taking behaviors. Childhood exposure to alcohol use is also found to be significantly associated with alcohol use pattern. Programs should aim at reducing early childhood exposure to alcohol by addressing the avoidance of consumption or use of alcohol in the presence of childhood. There should also be programs that educates youth about various adverse effects of engaging in risk-taking behavior and to impart refusal skills.