Kohima, December 11 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today lauded the State’s Tourism Department for the "overwhelming success" of the 19th edition of the Hornbill Festival “with a record number of visitors and tourists from different parts of the world.”
“The most welcome aspect was the positive participation of the local tourists and the local population who participate and support the dozens of events that took place in different districts,” Rio said in letter to department’s Advisor Khehovi Yepthomi.
The letter, release to media via Chief Minister's Office, also complimented the overall conduct and organisation of the festival, which, he maintained, has significantly improved.
Meanwhile, Rio noted that the Hornbill Festival is a unique festival that brings so many aspects and dimensions together and exemplifies the unity and brotherhood of Nagaland and the Naga people.
It showcases Nagas’ rich culture and vibrant heritage like no other event, he added. The CM called for making continued “efforts to constantly improve upon our shortcomings and learn from experiences so that together with the people of Nagaland-who are the real stakeholders of the festival - make this event grow and improve to become a major international festival on a global scale.”
