Hikali Achumi, 23, from Zunheboto district was crowned Miss Nagaland 2022 during a glamourous grand finale of Miss Nagaland 2022 held at Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima on Friday night.

Kenei Ritse, 20, from Phek was declared the first runner-up and Jentiren Jamir, 21, from Mokokchung the second runner-up.

Hikali Achumi won the hearts of the judges and the crowd with her spectacular answer in the question-and-answer round of the Top 4. Achumi, said she deserves to win the title of Miss.Nagaland because she wants to be the virtuous example of upright women and influence the womenfolk of her state and beyond.

Achumi was awarded with a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh along with gift hampers.

The first and second runners-up received cash rewards of Rs 70,000 and Rs 50,000 respectively and gift hampers.

The subtitle winners received a cash prize of Rs 10,000 each with gift hampers.

The subtitle winners are:

Miss Photogenic – Kenie Ritse

Miss Perfect Ten – Chochou Lhoujem

Miss Talent – Ketou-u Pfusenuo

Queen of Hearts – Linovi P Kiba

Miss Beautiful Skin – Jentiren Jamir

Miss Multimedia – Hikali Achumi

Miss Nagaland is a part of Hornbill Festival and is presented by the Beauty and Aesthetic Society of Nagaland (BASN) in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland.

In the first round, ethnic round, all the contestants showcased their rich traditional cultures. In designer round, the contestants wore designs of Sheli Chishi which was followed by the final round, evening gown.

The panel of judges included Miss North East 2022 Irene Dkhar, Miss North East 2022 1st runner-up Eshanee Hatimuria, Dr Abeny Khuvung, Lhouvi Mezhur and Theja Therie.

The official choreographer of Miss Nagaland 2022 was Veineinem Singson Haolai.

Meanwhile, Achumi said it is an overwhelming feeling to be crowned Miss Nagaland and thanked God and her supporters.

Asserting that she strongly believes in empowering women, she said will take the step forward to start a campaign and be a spokesperson for women.