The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, expressed his heartfelt congratulations on the successful completion of the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival. This year marks a historic milestone as Nagaland celebrates 25 years of this iconic event, a source of immense pride for all its citizens. The Hornbill Festival has elevated Nagaland’s reputation on the global stage, showcasing the vibrant energy, creativity, and innovation of its youth to the international community, while enabling them to pursue their aspirations, he noted.
The policy of engaging Partner Countries and States has introduced a multi-dimensional aspect to the festival, fostering collaborations, partnerships, and developmental possibilities. The Music Festival component has transcended boundaries, positioning Nagaland as an international music destination and providing unparalleled platforms for young talents in the state. Most importantly, the festival continues to strengthen the collective goal of promoting, preserving, and celebrating the age-old traditions, rich cultural heritage, and the Naga way of life, the Chief Minister added.
While celebrating the resounding success of the festival’s 25th edition, Rio acknowledged the challenges faced this year, particularly in light of natural calamities and hardships in recent months. Despite these adversities, several government departments worked tirelessly, completing multiple projects on a war footing in record time. These achievements underscore Nagaland’s immense potential for accelerated progress when all government and supporting agencies work in unison with dedication and commitment.
Rio also recognized the collective efforts of numerous agencies and individuals, including Ministers, Advisors, MLAs, Chairpersons of PSUs, and the entire government machinery under the able leadership of the Chief Secretary and the DGP. He commended the contributions of tribal hohos, civil society leaders, and various departments such as Tourism, Art & Culture, the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), Home & Police, Agriculture & Allied, Horticulture, and Industries & Commerce. He also extended gratitude to the Army and paramilitary forces, led by the GOC 3 Corps and IG Assam Rifles, for their consistent partnership and support.
The Chief Minister thanked the press, media, and other platforms for their extensive coverage of the festival. He acknowledged the contributions of agencies like DIPR, AIR, Doordarshan, BSNL, and local, regional, and national media for their efforts. Rio extended his appreciation to all government and non-government agencies, tribal hohos, Partner Countries and States, and every group and individual who contributed to the success of this year’s festival. He acknowledged the communities of Kigwema, Phesama, and the villages in the Southern Angami area for their involvement.
He also conveyed a special note of gratitude to the leaders and representatives of church organizations and believers whose enthusiastic participation added depth and meaning to the festival. The memorable Devotional Advent Christmas Service held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, stands as a testament to their contributions, and their prayers undoubtedly played a role in the festival’s remarkable success.
Lastly, Rio expressed deep gratitude to well-wishers, guests, friends, and tourists who traveled from near and far to join the celebrations. Their presence made the festival truly memorable, and he hoped they would return with more friends and family in the years to come.
In conclusion, the Chief Minister emphasized that the success of the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival is a triumph for the Naga people. Every citizen of Nagaland is a stakeholder in this unique and unparalleled event, which not only showcases the state’s cultural richness and soft power but also reinforces the unity of its people. He congratulated all contributors for their noble service.