Kohima: The 23rd Edition of the Hornbill Festival began at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama near Kohima today with Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar as the chief guest. The festival will culminate on December 10.
The Vice President of India in his greetings expressed that he was thrilled, excited and captivated by the energy of the Naga youth. He said Naga culture and the memories of his stay in Nagaland would be embedded in his heart even in the days ahead. He praised the rich Naga songs, dances, crafts, cuisines etc and expressed his happiness over the vibrant Naga culture and traditions.
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Jagdeep Dhankhar said India is a land of culture and said that the place “Kisama”, where the annual Hornbill Festival takes place every year, could become the culture of cultures. “Nagaland has been endowed with scenic beauty and the pattern of its landscaping is captivating because of which”, he said, the State has a great potential in the tourism industry. He added that the Nagas being very hospitable and affectionate to their guests and outsiders could boost the tourism industry in a big way. He also mentioned about the rich horticulture produces of the state including kiwi fruits, pineapple, coffee etc.
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Dhankhar also congratulated the State Government for electing the first Naga woman MP to Rajya Sabha, Phangnon Konyak, which he said is an example of exemplifying women empowerment. He also appreciated the State for having the lowest crime rate against women in the country.
Meanwhile, greetings were delivered by honoured guests–Ambassador of France to India, Emmanuel Lenain, Trade Commissioner for South Asia & British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, Alan Gemmell and Australian High Commissioner to India, Barry O’Farrell Ao.
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