DIMAPUR — A three-day Hornbill Bamboo Carnival
was inaugurated by the advisor to chief minister and chairman of Investment
& Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, at the Nagaland
Bamboo Resource Centre, 6th Mile, Sovima, Chümoukedima, on Thursday.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Metha said that the
Hornbill Festival, in the last 25 years, has grown from strength to strength.
He informed that from a single venue at Kohima's local ground, which was
celebrated for three days, the Hornbill Festival today is celebrated across six
districts for ten days.
With more than 300 events spread over six districts, he said
that Hornbill Festival is one of India's shining tourism events.
He stated that the Hornbill Festival is no longer just about
cultural festivities but has evolved into a platform for economic discussions,
international collaborations and entrepreneurial growth.
While referring to independent studies, he stated that the
2023 Hornbill Festival generated INR 108 crore revenue within 10 days and also
created 8,500 jobs.
Metha said that the Hornbill Bamboo Carnival is also a key
component of the festival and acknowledged for its innovative approach under
the Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA).
Speaking on the Hornbill Bamboo Carnival, team member of
Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA), Dr. Tolto Metha, said the carnival
has evolved from a humble beginning into a key platform for entrepreneurship
across diverse sectors including bamboo, music, arts and the food industry.
This year’s carnival saw participation of over 200
entrepreneurs and around 20 stalls.
He mentioned that the event has been rechristened as the
Hornbill Bamboo Carnival since 2022, solidifying its position in the Hornbill
Festival celebrations and added that at the carnival, international guests from
Japan would also be part of the carnival.
Dr. Metha said that the carnival not only showcases bamboo’s
versatility but also united people from various walks of life to recognise its
potential as a medium for sustainable livelihood and economic growth.
