Nagaland Prepares for Silver Jubilee Edition of Hornbill Festival

The Nagaland government seeks support from 18 tribal organizations to ensure the 25th Hornbill Festival's success. Scheduled from December 1-10 at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, the event aims to attract global tourists. A revamp of the venue is underway, and all involved parties are committed to making the festival memorable.

The Nagaland government on Wednesday called for active support from 18 tribal organizations to make this year's silver jubilee edition of the Hornbill Festival a grand success.

The tourism department held a consultative meeting with these tribal organizations, discussing preparations for the event scheduled from December 1-10 at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.

Tourism Secretary G Hukugha Sema emphasized that this year's festival would be a historic celebration, drawing visitors from around the globe.

At the meeting, Sema credited past festival successes to the collective efforts of the state government, tribal groups, and other stakeholders, urging all to collaborate for an even more memorable event this year.

He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to showcase Nagaland's land, tradition, culture, and cuisine to the world, noting that past festivals had significantly raised the state's global profile.

Sema assured that all tourists attending would be treated as special guests, and emphasized the importance of ensuring their comfort and enjoyment.

The master plan for Kisama's revamp is in full swing and expected to be completed by November 17.

Tribal organizations pledged their support toward making the event a success. Initiated in 2000, the Hornbill Festival has grown into Nagaland's primary tourism promotional event. Originally held at Kohima, it was relocated to Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, in the mid-2000s.

However, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation (ENPO) asked the state government to push their demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory to the Centre to ensure their wholehearted participation in the festival.

(With inputs from agencies.)