State chief secretary J Alam expressed deep concern about the poor road conditions between Kohima and Kisama village, a key route for Hornbill Festival festival-goers. Addressing the officials of all line departments at the Secretariat Conference Hall, Kohima on Friday to discuss the preparations and roadmap for the upcoming Hornbill Festival 2023, Alam urged the Public Works Department (PWD) to ensure the timely repair of the road, emphasising the vital role of a well-maintained road in shaping the state’s image.
During the meeting, Alam also emphasised all departments collaborating and actively supporting local entrepreneurs participating in the festival.
He stressed attracting more tourists to the festival and highlighted the need for every department to engage actively and conduct exciting activities.
He also emphasised use of biodegradable products during the Hornbill Festival by strictly enforcing ban of plastic at the event. He announced plans for another review meeting and requested all departments to submit their proposed activities for further discussion during the upcoming meeting.
During the meeting, tourism secretary Nchumbemo Lotha provided insights into various ongoing activities and reported ongoing renovation and upgrading work at the heritage village. He mentioned that either the Pochury Naga or Rengma Naga tribe would have the honour of hosting the inaugural function, or all tribes would be given the opportunity to offer tribal blessings during morning and evening cultural programmes.
He urged the departments to submit their activities promptly for inclusion in the festival calendar.
Information & Public Relations director Dzuvinuo Thenuo highlighted the department’s plans, including the organisation of an open video/vlogging competition for the first time to promote film development and provide a platform for film enthusiasts.
Dr Hovithal Sothu, project director of ask Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), announced the establishment of a Contemporary Art Gallery to showcase artistic talents.
Various line departments, including Art & Culture, Tourism, Industries & Commerce, Honey Mission, PWD, and RD, provided updates on the status of their respective departmental activities planned for the upcoming Hornbill Festival.