Complete road projects before Hornbill Festival ’25: Nagaland CM Rio to line depts

Dimapur: CM Neiphiu Rio directed the line departments to complete all road projects and make them operational before Hornbill Festival 2025, slated from Dec 1.

Reviewing the preparations and roadmap for the upcoming festival with all line and sectoral departments in Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, on Friday evening, Rio expressed satisfaction over the progress of works by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).

He said the 10-day Hornbill Festival is the state’s most significant annual event, emphasising the importance of upgrading infrastructure, sanitation, and beautification of the Heritage Village, the venue of the festival.

Rio also stressed the need to provide visitors and travellers with basic amenities such as comfortable facilities, drinking water, food and proper sanitation.

Highlighting the importance of cleanliness, the CM called upon the departments to create greater awareness among the public.

He further said the quality and content of the festival must not be compromised as it serves as a platform to showcase the very best of Nagaland. He acknowledged the progress made over the years and expressed hope that this year’s edition will be celebrated in a grand manner.

Advisor to the chief minister and chairman of Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland Abu Metha said several dignitaries, including foreign officials, will be attending the festival this year.

He urged the line departments to sincerely address various challenges to ensure the success of the event.

Tourism and higher education minister Temjen Imna Along also shared his views during the meeting.

Line departments, including tourism, art and culture, industries and commerce, transport, PHE, PWD and power, highlighted the progress of works and activities being undertaken by their respective departments for the Hornbill Festival .