Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has congratulated the people of Nagaland on the successful completion of the 25th edition of Hornbill Festival.
In a statement, Rio said the festival elevated the state’s reputation on the global stage, showcasing the vibrant energy, creativity, and innovation of local youth to the international community, enabling them to pursue their aspirations.
He said the policy of partner countries and states added a multi-dimensional aspect to the festival, fostering collaborations, partnerships, and developmental possibilities, while the Music Festival transcended boundaries, positioning Nagaland as an international music destination and providing unparalleled platforms for young talents within the state.
He maintained that the collective goal of promoting, preserving, and celebrating age-old traditions, rich cultural heritage, and the Naga way of life continued to be strengthened through this event.
While celebrating the resounding success of the festival’s 25th edition, Rio emphasised acknowledging the challenges faced this year, particularly in light of the natural calamities and hardships of recent months. Despite these adversities, he noted that several government departments worked tirelessly, completing multiple projects on a war footing in record time.
The chief minister said these achievements underscored the immense potential for Nagaland to achieve accelerated progress when all government and supporting agencies worked in unison with the same zeal and commitment.
He mentioned that the collective efforts of all sections, numerous agencies and individuals led by ministers, advisers, MLAs, chairpersons of PSUs, the entire government machinery under the able leadership of chief secretary and director general of police, and leaders of tribal hohos and civil society deserved special recognition.
He also acknowledged that the departments of Tourism, Art & Culture, Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), Home & Police department, Agri & Allied, Horticulture department, and Industries & Commerce department played exemplary roles in making Nagaland shine brighter. He also extended sincere gratitude to the Indian Army and paramilitary forces under the leadership of GOC 3 Corps and
Inspector General of Assam Rifles for their consistent partnership and support, besides the media and media persons across all platforms for the extensive coverage and reportage on the festival. He said the state and central agencies of the DIPR, AIR, Doordarshan and BSNL, including local, regional and national media institutions, too made appreciable contributions.
Rio congratulated and appreciated all government and non-government agencies, tribal hohos, partner countries and states, and every group, agency, and individuals who contributed to the success of this year’s festival, besides acknowledging the contributions of the communities of Kigwema, Phesama and the villages under Southern Angami area.
He especially appreciated the leaders and representatives of all church organisations and believers, whose enthusiastic participation added so much value and meaning to the festival.
He elaborated, “The memorable Devotional Advent Christmas Service held on Sunday, December 8, 2024 stands as a testament to their contributions. We deeply value their prayers, which have undoubtedly played a role in the remarkable success of this milestone event.”
He also expressed deep gratitude to well-wishers, guests, friends, and tourists who traveled from far and near to celebrate the occasion with us, stating their presence made the festival truly memorable, and hoped they would return with more friends and family in the years to come.
Describing the success of the 25th Hornbill Festival as a triumph for Naga people, Rio said every citizen of Nagaland was a stakeholder in this unique and unparalleled festival, which showcased not only cultural richness and soft power but also the unity of the people. He congratulated all concerned for their noble service. This was stated in a DIPR press release.