DIMAPUR — The Directorate of Tourism has
extended formal apology for the oversight and failure to include the name of
the Khiamniungan tribe in the ‘Heritage Guide Map’ displayed at the main arena
during the Hornbill Festival 2024.
In a letter to the president of the Khiamniungan Union
Kohima on Tuesday, Director of Tourism, Veyielo Doulo acknowledged that the
non-inclusion of the tribe's name in the display board has caused deep
discontentment and unhappiness among the members of the tribe.
“The department would like to sincerely express our regret
for this mistake and assure you that it was never our intention to exclude or
overlook the importance of your tribe. We acknowledge the significance of
recognising and respecting the cultural heritage and identity of all indigenous
communities, including all the sub-tribes of the State,” the letter stated.
Conveying regret for the offense caused by the oversight,
the department assured that it is committed to rectifying this kind of
situation in the years to come to ensure that the Khiamniungan tribe is
properly represented and acknowledged.
“The department truly valued the relationship we have with
the Khiamniungan tribe and want to assure you that we are dedicated to
promoting diversity, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity within our
department.
“Your feedback and concerns are important to us and we will
strive to do better in the future to avoid similar oversights. Please accept
our most sincere apologies for any distress or disappointment that this
oversight may have caused,” the letter read.
