Chief Secretary J Alam addressing the meeting with line departments at Civil Secretariat Kohima on October 13 in preparation for the upcoming Hornbill Festival.
KOHIMA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Secretary, J Alam, IAS, presided over a meeting with all line departments to discuss the preparedness and roadmap for the upcoming Hornbill Festival 2023 on October 13. The meeting took place at the Secretariat Conference Hall, Kohima, informed a report from the DIPR.
During the meeting, Chief Secretary Alam emphasized the need for all departments to collaborate and actively support local entrepreneurs participating in the upcoming festival. Furthermore, he expressed deep concern about the poor road conditions between Kohima and Kisama village, a key route for festival-goers. He urged the Public Works Department (PWD) to ensure the timely repair of the road, emphasizing that a well-maintained road plays a vital role in shaping the state's image.
Alam stressed the importance of attracting more tourists to the festival and highlighted the need for every department to engage actively and contribute exciting activities.
An additional point of emphasis was the use of biodegradable products during the Hornbill Festival, with strict enforcement of a plastic ban at the event. He also 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, Nchumbemo Lotha, Secretary of Tourism, 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 honor of hosting the inaugural function, or all tribes would be given the opportunity to offer tribal blessings during morning and evening cultural programs. He urged departments to submit their activities promptly for inclusion in the festival calendar.
Dzuvinuo Thenuo, Director of Information and Public Relations, highlighted the department's plans, including the organization 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 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.
