Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio gathered officials at Bamboo Hall in Kisama on October 13 to iron out plans for the 27th Hornbill Festival. The state must move fast. Rio demanded coordinated work from local communities and government departments to secure power, water, security, and traffic control. He plans to host a follow-up meeting specifically to address crumbling roads near the festival site.
A massive landslide on August 13 wrecked part of National Highway-29 between Kisama and Phesama. Repairs must finish soon. The Kohima District Disaster Management Authority expects the Phesama stretch to be motorable by late November. Rio also ordered every department to appoint nodal officers and tasked villages with cleaning highways near their borders.
Advisor Abu Metha pushed for sustainable event management, including rainwater harvesting and renewable energy. He wants international partnerships in film, art, and music to boost the state economy. Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along noted that foreign dignitaries are showing increased interest in the event and the ongoing mini-Hornbill festivals.
Kovi Meyase, Secretary of Tourism, briefed the committee on sanitation and vehicle pass systems. Meanwhile, the Department of Youth Resources and Sports confirmed plans for an e-sports tournament. Rio remains focused on the guest experience. Following the meeting, he told reporters, "we are committed to ensuring the 27th edition of the festival is flawless, and our guests feel comfortable." The government is also drafting tender documents for a public-private partnership to develop the Kisama Heritage Village.
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