Sikkim becomes Partner State for Hornbill Festival 2024

CM flags-off Sikkim contingent to Nagaland fest

GANGTOK,(IPR):  In a significant moment of cultural collaboration, Sikkim has been announced as the Partner State for Hornbill Festival 2024.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay ceremonially flagged-off the Sikkimese delegation along with a car and bike rally to the Hornbill Festival being celebrated in Kisama Village, Nagaland this morning from Ridge Park.

The Hornbill Festival, an annual event, aims to revive and safeguard the cultural heritage and traditions of the Naga tribes. The partnership with the State of Sikkim highlights the shared heritage and unity among the Northeastern States, providing an opportunity to showcase and celebrate Sikkimese heritage and traditions on the Hornbill stage, which garners international attention.

The Sikkimese delegation will travel under the theme "50 Years of Statehood," highlighting Sikkim and its rich legacy. The 144 number of contingent include Self-Help Groups (SHGs), bikers, car rally teams, media personnel, and officials from the Information & Public Relations department, press and media, Culture department, department of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Commerce & Industries department and also participants from various social organisations.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt wishes to the contingent, encouraging their enthusiastic participation. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared cultural legacy and the spirit of unity among our States. I wish everyone a safe journey and a commendable representation of Sikkim at this prestigious festival,” he said.

The delegation was encouraged to operate as a self-sufficient entity, acting as hosts rather than guests. As a partner State, they were also requested to minimise any burden on the organisers and to represent their State effectively. Furthermore, the Chief Minister urged the delegation to gather experiences and positive insights from Nagaland that could be implemented in Sikkim for the betterment of the State.

Tshering Thendup Bhutia, minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation and Commerce & Industries departments, Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, MLA cum Advisor UDD and Food & Civil Supplies, Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia, chairman SIMFED, R Telang, additional chief secretary, CS Rao, principal secretary Tourism & Civil Aviation department, Annapurna Alley, secretary IPRD, Karma D Yutso, secretary, Commerce & Industries department, Rim Dorjee Lepcha, chief engineer, Culture department along with officials and staff of various departments were also present during the flag-off.

This year’s Hornbill festival is expected to further strengthen ties and celebrate the diversity of India’s Northeastern region.

It might be noted that the delegation will stay in Nagaland for the duration of the festival from December 1 to December 10.