Union Tourism Minister assures to help preserve Naga culture

Union Minister of State for Tourism and Art and Culture, Dr PS Patel and GEM Hospitals Chairman, Dr C Palanivelu being felicitated with traditional Naga head gear, spear and machete at Kisama on December 4. (DIPR Photo)

Our Correspondent 
Kohima | December 4 

Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture (Independent Charge), Prahlad Singh Patel today attended the ongoing Hornbill Festival at Kisama.

Addressing the gathering at the ‘Cultural Connect’ event in Kisama, Patel assured to do his best to uplift the tradition and culture of the Nagas. He said that festivals are a reflection of one’s cultural identity and heritage.

While acknowledging the rich and unique cultures of the Nagas, the Union Minister said that the Government of India will extend all possible help to preserve and promote the rich culture, tradition and heritage of the Nagas.

The Minister described the Hornbill bird as majestic and vibrant, stating that these qualities define the Nagas and their honour as well.  

Various cultural songs and dances were presented by different tribes during the event.
Earlier, the Union Minister graced the traditional stone pulling ceremony at Mima Village, near Kisama.
Patel, accompanied by Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio, took part in the event by marching along with hundreds of people dressed in their colourful traditional attires.

Visitor count at Kisama 85,101 till day 4
Meanwhile, the number of visitors at the main venue Kisama has gone up to 85,101 till December 4.
On December 4, the number of visitors was 14, 281. This included 492 foreign tourists, 3494 domestic tourists, and 10,295 local visitors.