Departments urged to collaborate for success of Hornbill Fest

DIMAPUR — The necessity for state departments to actively collaborate and support local entrepreneurs participating in the upcoming Hornbill Festival, 2023, was emphasised during a meeting at the Secretariat Conference Hall, Kohima on Friday. During the meeting, chief secretary J Alam, along with all line departments, discussed the preparedness and roadmap for the upcoming festival. Besides supporting local entrepreneurs, Alam also stressed the importance of attracting more tourists to the festival and underlined the need for every department to engage actively and contribute to exciting activities.

An update from the state DIPR stated that the Chief Secretary expressed deep concern about the poor road conditions between Kohima and Kisama village, a key route for festival-goers. He urged the Public Works Department (PWD) to ensure the timely repair of the road, emphasising that well-maintained roads are vital in shaping the state’s image.

An additional point of emphasis was the use of biodegradable products during the Hornbill Festival, with strict enforcement of a plastic ban at the event. The Chief Secretary is said to have announced plans for another review meeting, requesting all departments to submit their proposed activities for further discussion during the upcoming meeting.

Secretary of Tourism, Nchumbemo Lotha shared insights into various ongoing activities and reported on the ongoing renovation and upgrading works at the Heritage Village. He also mentioned that either the Pochury Naga or Rengma Naga tribe would have the honour of hosting the inaugural function, or all tribes would be given the opportunity to offer tribal blessings during morning and evening cultural programmes. Lotha urged departments to submit their activities promptly for inclusion in the festival calendar, the DIPR informed.

Dzuvinuo Thenuo, Director of Information and Public Relations, revealed the department’s plans, including the organisation of an open video/vlogging competition for the first time, aimed at promoting film development and providing a platform for film enthusiasts. Dr. Hovithal Sothu, Project Director of TAFMA, also announced the establishment of a contemporary Art Gallery to showcase the artistic talents of the region.

Representatives from various line departments, including Art & Culture, Tourism, Industries & Commerce, Honey Mission, PWD, and RD, provided updates on the status of their respective departmental activities planned for the festival.

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