Yangerjungla, a research scholar from the Department of Law, Nagaland University, was awarded as the Best Paper Presenter for her paper titled “Hornbill Festival as a Platform of Cultural Diplomacy: Bridging Nagaland with Asia and Beyond.”

She received the award during the three-day Multidisciplinary International Seminar on “North-East India and Beyond: Past, Present, and Future” held during November 14 to 16. Organised by Rajiv Gandhi University Research Scholars’ Forum (RGURSF) in collaboration with the Department of Mass Communication, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), the seminar served as a dynamic platform for students, researchers, academicians, experts, and policymakers to engage in meaningful dialogue on the region’s past legacies, present challenges, and emerging futures.

The event featured five technical sessions and brought together over 273 participants who presented their research across diverse disciplines linked to North-East India and its wider connections. The seminar encouraged interdisciplinary exchange, fostering new perspectives on cultural, socio-political, economic, and developmental issues shaping the region.

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Yangerjungla’s study highlighted how Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival has evolved into a significant tool of cultural diplomacy projecting indigenous Naga heritage on a global stage while complementing India’s Act East Policy outreach. The paper also underscored the urgent need to address concerns related to authenticity, commodification, and sustainability as the festival continues to expand its international influence.

Yangerjungla is pursuing PhD under the supervision of Dr. Sentikumla, Assistant Professor in the Department of Law, Nagaland University, Lumami Campus.