PM Modi Praises Nagaland's Waste Management Initiatives During Hornbill Festival

Kohima, Dec 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday applauded Nagaland for its commitment to waste management and sustainability, showcased during the ongoing Hornbill Festival at Kisama Heritage Village.
In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister conveyed his warm wishes to the people of Nagaland, commemorating the festival's vibrant 25-year anniversary.
Recalling his unforgettable visit to the festival a few years back, PM Modi characterized the Hornbill Festival as a dynamic exhibition of Naga culture and traditions.
He urged everyone to immerse themselves in its vibrancy.
An official from the Nagaland Tourism Department noted that the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the State's sustainability efforts emphasizes the significance of integrating cultural celebrations with environmental awareness.
The Prime Minister remarked on X: “My best wishes for the ongoing Hornbill Festival and congratulations to the people of Nagaland on this lively festival completing 25 years. I am also glad to see the focus on waste management and sustainability during this year’s festival. I have fond memories from my own visit to this Festival a few years ago and I urge others to visit it and experience the vibrancy of Naga culture.”
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Hornbill Bamboo Carnival-2024, organized by the Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA), commenced with grandeur at the Bamboo Amphitheater, Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre, Sovima, Chümoukedima, on Thursday.
The event was inaugurated by Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN).
During the event, Abu Metha praised the NBDA for its commitment to promoting bamboo as a crucial resource for sustainable innovation and development.
He highlighted its role in driving economic growth and creating prospects for the people of Nagaland.
Metha also appreciated the diverse contributions that have led to the festival’s success.
He conveyed greetings on behalf of the Chief Minister and underscored the significance of the Hornbill Festival as a major cultural event not just in India, but throughout the region.
Metha pointed out the festival’s evolution from a three-day event at Kohima local ground to a 10-day celebration spanning six districts.
This year, the festival included participation from four partner countries -- the United States, Peru, Japan, and the United Kingdom, along with partner states Telangana and Sikkim.
According to Metha, these international collaborations demonstrate the festival’s increasing global significance and its role in promoting cultural unity and development.
He also commended the Chumukedima district, host of the Bamboo Carnival, for its rapid development and potential as an economic hub.
Metha emphasized the festival’s economic impact, sharing findings from an independent study indicating that the event generated significant revenue and new job opportunities.
He noted that last year, in just 10 days, the Hornbill Festival contributed Rs 108 crore and created over 8,500 jobs.
Metha highlighted that the festival has transitioned from a cultural celebration to an essential platform for promoting entrepreneurship and supporting the aspirations of Naga youth.
Particularly, Metha expressed pride in the accomplishments of Naga youth, citing their success both locally and internationally. He referenced the Naga Madrigal Singers, who achieved two gold medals at the World Choir Games in New Zealand, as a prime example of Naga youth excelling on the global stage.
He emphasized that the Hornbill Festival is not only about showcasing Naga culture but also about providing avenues for young entrepreneurs to realize their dreams and contribute to the state’s progress.
Celebrating the traditional and diverse culture, customs, and vibrant life of Nagaland, the 10-day-long silver jubilee edition Hornbill Festival commenced on December 1 at the scenic Naga heritage village Kisama, located 12 km from the capital city Kohima.