Nagaland offers more than Hornbill Festival — Scindia

DIMAPUR — Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya M Scindia, on Saturday described the Hornbill Festival as an “extraordinary experience” as he concluded his three-day visit to Nagaland.

Speaking to the media at Dimapur Airport, he said that Nagaland’s greatest strength lies in its people, vibrant culture and heritage.

He added that the world must visit Nagaland to witness these treasures, stressing that the state should not be known only for the Hornbill Festival.

According to Scindia, Nagaland offers much more than what is showcased during the festival, as the state’s essence must be experienced, lived and explored.

Appreciating Nagaland coffee, he praised its world-class branding and packaging, and commended the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for identifying coffee as a key unique selling proposition.

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He said that approximately 11,000 hectares are currently under coffee cultivation, and that efforts are underway to establish a common processing centre, promote value addition and enhance income for coffee growers.

Highlighting that Nagaland offers vast opportunities, Scindia said that he has been closely working with the chief minister on various developmental fronts, adding that the state’s untapped potential needs to be harnessed.

He also conveyed his eagerness to continue working not only with Rio but with the people of Nagaland as well, with whom he said he has built a strong rapport over the past three days.