“The Hornbill Festival has elevated our state’s reputation on the global stage, showcasing the vibrant energy, creativity, and innovation of our youth to the international community, while enabling them to pursue their aspirations,” Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio wrote to Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism, congratulating him on the successful completion of the 25th Edition of the Hornbill Festival.
The Chief Minister stated that while celebrating the success of the iconic festival, it is important to acknowledge the challenges we faced this year, particularly in light of the natural calamities and hardships of recent months. He noted that despite these adversities, several government departments worked tirelessly, completing multiple projects on a war footing in record time. These achievements underscore the immense potential for Nagaland to achieve accelerated progress when all government and supporting agencies work in unison with the same zeal and commitment, he stated.
The Chief Minister underscored the collective efforts of all sections and numerous agencies and individuals that have played exemplary roles in making “Nagaland shine brighter”. He extended gratitude to the Army and paramilitary forces for their consistent partnership and support and also the press and media and media persons across all platforms for the extensive coverage and reportage on the festival.
Rio also conveyed his personal congratulations and the appreciation of the State Government to all government and non-government agencies, Tribal Hohos, Partner Countries and States, and every group, agency, and individual who contributed to the success of this year’s festival. We acknowledge the contributions of the communities of Kigwema, Phesama and the villages under the Southern Angami area, he said. The Chief Minister also conveyed a special note of appreciation to the leaders and representatives of all church organizations and believers,
Further, he expressed deep gratitude to the well-wishers, guests, friends, and tourists who traveled from near and far to celebrate this occasion with us. Their presence made the festival truly memorable. We hope they will return with more friends and family in the years to come, he added.
In conclusion, Rio mentioned 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 festival, which showcases not only our cultural richness and soft power but also the unity of our people, and congratulates all concerned for their noble service, he said.
The #HornbillFestival is a vibrant celebration of Nagaland’s culture. I thank all Partners, guests, and participants, who helped make the 25th Edition truly special. I hope you take a piece of our culture with you and be our ambassadors.
We look forward to welcoming you again. pic.twitter.com/WLax367OTM
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) December 10, 2024