Hornbill Extension 2025: CM Advisor Metha lauds Sumi community's leadership

DIMAPUR — Advisor to the chief minister and IDAN chairman, Abu Metha, attended the second day of Hornbill Extension 2025 in Zunheboto on December 5 as special guest.

Also present were former minister Y Vikheho Swu, TaFMA chairman Theja Meru, and Rusemtong Longkumer, PRO to the chief minister and NPF working president, a DIPR report stated.

Speaking on the occasion, Abu Metha made special mention of Sumi leaders such as Isak Chishi Swu and Hokishe Sema, noting that their legacy is why Sumi land is known as the ‘Land of warriors,’ a pride shared by all Nagas.

He also highlighted the achievements of Hokato Hotozhe Sema, a decorated Indian Army para-athlete who won bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics and a recipient of the Arjuna Award 2024.

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According to Metha, the Hornbill Festival has become a unifying platform for the Naga people and is now recognised internationally. Under the vision of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the festival has welcomed six partner countries and grown into a global space for partnership, cultural exchange, and showcasing Naga soft power, he said.

He went on to state that Nagas today have a newfound confidence and that ‘Brand Nagaland’ is being advanced by the youth, who are taking the state beyond its boundaries through talent and creativity.

The IDAN chairman highlighted Nagas' shift from insurgency to peace, culture, and excellence. He encouraged youth to contribute to state and nation, praising the Naga people's progress and Sumi community's leadership.

He further urged Nagas to rise above tribalism and unite as one people, adding that despite many challenges, Nagas have achieved much and can reach even greater heights through unity.

In his greetings, DC Zunheboto Dharam Raj lauded the significance of the festival and said he was amazed by how the Hornbill Festival has become a household name, adding that the Hornbill Extension plays a crucial role in promoting Nagaland to the world.

The DC lauded the Sumi Youth Organisation (SYO) for their commendable efforts and emphasised the need to fuse traditional values with modern aspirations.

In his presidential address, SYO president Hikavi H Kinimi highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and community involvement in sustaining heritage and values.

The second day of the festival culminated successfully showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Sumi Naga tribe while strengthening community bonds through heritage and tradition, the report stated.