Tourism Ministers of Nagaland and Sikkim Convene at Hornbill Festival

Kohima/Gangtok, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Sikkim Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia had a meeting with his Nagaland counterpart Temjen Imna Along at the Tourist Information Centre, Kisama in Kohima on Monday, coinciding with the Hornbill Festival, according to officials.

The two Ministers from the northeastern states deliberated on potential collaborations aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, fostering cultural exchange, and enhancing inter-state tourism initiatives.

A senior government official noted, “Both Ministers emphasized the necessity of building partnerships to utilize the unique cultural and natural resources of their respective states.”

Previously, Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia toured the kiosk established by the Sikkim government’s Tourism department at the ongoing Hornbill Festival 2024.

“While interacting with the team, he praised their efforts in highlighting Sikkim’s tourism potential on such a notable platform and extended his best wishes for their ongoing success,” an official statement indicated.

The festival, which showcases Nagaland’s traditional and diverse culture, customs, and vibrant lifestyle, kicked off its 10-day-long 25th edition at the scenic Naga heritage village Kisama on Sunday evening.

With the rhythm of Naga gongs, the beat of log drums, and the traditional war cry, the annual Hornbill Festival, named after the vibrant forest bird, commenced in tandem with the 62nd Nagaland Statehood Day celebrations.

This year’s festival will also present a collaborative cultural experience featuring partners from Japan, the USA, the United Kingdom (Wales), Peru, and Bulgaria, alongside Sikkim and Telangana as the partner states.

Prominent figures, including Padma Bhushan, Grammy, and Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman and representatives from various nations, graced the inaugural ceremony.

“This festival not only allows us to celebrate and showcase our unique culture and traditions, our lifestyle, cuisine, art, and crafts, but it has also become a central hub for networking among people,” remarked Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along.

Organized by Nagaland’s Tourism and Art and Culture department, the Hornbill Festival exhibits the deep-rooted traditions and rich cultural heritage of the northeastern state in all its diversity and grandeur.

The festival also pays homage to the majestic Hornbill, a bird that is highly esteemed by the Naga community for its vigilance and magnificence.

For the numerous foreign and domestic visitors, it provides a unique opportunity to gain a profound understanding of the Naga community, their land, and cultural richness.

The festival was hosted by Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.