Nagaland’s Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along emphasized the significant role of the Hornbill Festival in boosting the state’s recognition nationally and globally. He mentioned that expanding the festival to different districts has increased grassroots involvement while showcasing the Naga people’s rich traditions, culture, and music. This move has not only strengthened the state’s cultural identity but also contributed to its tourism development.
The 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival, held from December 1 to 10, 2025, at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, near Kohima, attracted numerous tourists from various parts of India and abroad. Minister Along also commended the Department of Youth Resources and Sports for promoting sports as a professional career among the youth. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in nurturing talent, providing structured opportunities, and fostering a culture of excellence in Nagaland.
During the discussion on the motion of thanks, MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu emphasized the need for unity, constructive criticism, and shared responsibility. He praised the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) for signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of India to establish the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA). Nienu expressed optimism that this agreement would bring peace, unity, and accelerated development to the eastern region of Nagaland.
In a significant development on February 5, a tripartite agreement was signed in New Delhi, granting administrative empowerment to Eastern Nagaland. This agreement, witnessed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, delegates powers over 46 subjects to the six eastern districts. The ENPO, representing eight recognized Naga tribes in these districts, has long advocated for a separate ‘Frontier Nagaland Territory’ or a distinct state comprising specific districts inhabited by backward tribes.
MLA Ar. Jwenga, while acknowledging the state government’s progress despite resource limitations, lauded Nagaland’s advancement towards Viksit Bharat @2047 and Viksit Nagaland @2047 under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s leadership. He congratulated the people of Eastern Nagaland on the MoA signing for the FNTA and emphasized the need for the proposed interim council to unify the region. Jwenga also urged the government to address developmental gaps in central Nagaland through targeted programs for economically disadvantaged sections.
