Matter of time for Nagaland to become favoured tourist destination, says VP at Hornbill Festival

Our Correspondent

Kisama, Dec. 1 (EMN): Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, on Thursday inaugurated the 23rd edition of the Hornbill Festival at a grand opening ceremony here at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.

Addressing the gathering, he said that the state has “great” tourism potential and it is a matter of time for Nagaland to become a “favoured destination” in this country for tourists.

He expressed confidence that the Hornbill Festival would contribute to the growth of tourism industry in India.

Stating that farmers of the state produce some of the best products in the form of coffee and organic fruits, he urged to ensure market availability and greater dissemination for Nagaland’s produce.

The vice president also said that the state is the “focal centre” of the Act East Policy and a “big developmental change” is taking place. Funds are being earmarked and development is taking place under the Ministry of DoNER.

Nagaland has a glorious history and unique culture and the word ‘Naga’ is known for culture, courage and display of talents, he said.

‘I am thrilled, excited and enthralled, captivated by the energy of the Naga boys and girls. It is a great day in my life. I will never forget this day’, he said on his visit to the Festival of festivals.

‘India is proud of its tribes, proud of its tribal culture’, he went on to add.

He further observed that “Nagaland exemplifies women empowerment”, while making a mention of the first female Rajya Sabha MP and low crime rate against women.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said that Hornbill Festival exemplifies the Naga way of life, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Naga people along with the rest of the northeastern states, showcasing unity and oneness under the spirit of solidarity.

‘It is aimed at protecting, preserving and promoting the culture and heritage of the people, while creating opportunities for economic growth and employment generation. It is a platform that allows the creativity and innovation of our youth to blossom and flower while opening vistas for the entrepreneurs to pursue their aspirations,’ Rio said.

‘In so many ways the Hornbill Festival expresses the energy, vibrancy and the ambition of the new generation of Naga youth. The festival is a symbol of Nagaland and the emerging Naga soft power. Over a period of 10 days, hundreds of events will take place. It is a festival like no other. But at the core of it all are the cultural displays. The cultural ambassadors representing the tribes of Nagaland and from the different states of the northeast and even the mainland are the heart and soul of the Hornbill Festival.

‘Today, we aspire for genuine peace, and we are hopeful that with the successful conclusion of the peace process, our contributions in the forward  march of this great nation will only increase, and Nagas will be able to play a contributory role in the interest of humanity on the global stage,’ Rio stated.

Central, state governments working towards lasting peace

Governor of Nagaland Prof. Jagdish Mukhi said that the Central and state governments are working together to bring in lasting peace in the land.

“We, as beneficiaries, should make up our minds and create a conducive atmosphere for welcoming the new dawn for a peaceful and progressive Nagaland”, he said.

He urged all to look back and introspect at what has been achieved over the last 60 years, and what ground remains to be covered.

“Today, Nagaland is at the edge of making history. After years of insurgency, there is hope. With the support from all the stakeholders including the general populace, there is an opportunity for lasting peace. I congratulate all the Naga groups for having come so far. I am confident that a final agreement – one that is fair to all and meets the expectations and aspirations of all – will be reached soon”, Mukhi added.

He also lauded the government of India for recognising Hornbill Festival as one of the premier and major events for the performing artistes in India.

Over the years, with the immense cooperation and enthusiastic participation of all the tribes of Nagaland and the neighboring states, this cultural festival has received much fame and name, he observed.

Ambassador of France to India, Emmanuel Lenain, Trade Commissioner for South East Asia and British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India Alan Gemmell, and High Commissioner of Australia to India, Barry O’ Farrell also spoke during the opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, the eastern Nagaland tribes’ morungs wore a deserted look at Kisama on Thursday following their decision to abstain from participating in this year’s Hornbill Festival.