Neiphiu Rio calls for coordinated efforts, improved roads and essential services as Nagaland prepares for the 27th Hornbill Festival
DIMAPUR/KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday called for coordinated efforts among government departments and local communities to ensure the smooth conduct of the 27th edition of the Hornbill Festival, while acknowledging the need for a further review of road conditions leading to the venue.
Speaking after a High Power Committee (HPC) meeting at Bamboo Hall, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, Rio said departments had submitted their preparedness reports and the government was working to ensure a comfortable experience for visitors. He said a separate meeting would be convened to examine road-related issues.
In a social media post following the meeting, Rio said officials from various line and sectoral departments had reviewed preparations for the festival. He stressed the need for collective efforts and directed departments to designate nodal officers to improve coordination and ensure timely action.
According to a DIPR update, Rio also called on villages to take responsibility for keeping roads clean, particularly highways passing through or near their areas. He highlighted the need for reliable power and water supply, security, traffic management, cleanliness, parking and public conveniences.
Asked about the chief guest for the festival, Rio said invitations had been sent and confirmation was awaited.
Also read: Hornbill Festival preparations on track; road conditions to be reviewed
On the proposed public-private partnership (PPP) model for managing Kisama Heritage Village, the chief minister said the process was underway and tender documents were being prepared.
Minister for Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along said departments were working to complete arrangements at Kisama and across the state. He expressed confidence that the festival would be conducted successfully.
Along said the government intended to develop tourism into a year-round industry, with Kisama Naga Heritage Village operating beyond the festival period to attract visitors and create opportunities for stakeholders to engage with Nagaland’s cultural heritage.
On partner countries for the festival, Along said several countries had expressed interest, but the HPC would take the final decision in consultation with stakeholders. An official announcement would be made by the chief minister, he said.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha described the Hornbill Festival as a major platform for international engagement and economic activity, saying it had grown from a three-day event to a 10-day festival featuring more than 300 events across multiple venues in the state.
He said the festival had helped introduce Nagaland to international audiences and that extensions in other districts were emerging as additional tourist attractions.
Metha also called for greater emphasis on sustainable event management, including rainwater harvesting, proper waste disposal and renewable energy.
He highlighted opportunities for international partnerships and collaborations in art, music and films to promote the state’s creative economy.
Commissioner and Secretary for Tourism Kovi Meyase outlined logistical requirements, including water supply, sanitation and the streamlining of vehicle passes. The Department of Art and Culture briefed the meeting on arrangements for cultural troupes and tribal guests, while the Department of Youth Resources and Sports outlined planned activities, including an e-sports tournament.
The meeting also reviewed preparations by other departments involved in the festival, which is scheduled to be held in December.