Tovi V. Chishi
Dimapur
Landslide- but Hornbill must go on.
Earthquake- but Hornbill must go on.
Flood- but Hornbill must go on.
No matter what, Hornbill must go on.
This year, Nagaland has faced numerous natural disasters, particularly landslides along the National Highway between Dimapur and Kohima. Yet, the government remains focused on the Hornbill Festival, investing hundreds of crores into a 10-day celebration.
While the festival is a vibrant showcase of culture, many citizens still struggle for basic necessities: roads, water, electricity, and healthcare are inadequate. The government stands by its claim that entrepreneurs benefit from the festival, but what is the use when most of the society continues to struggle for fundamental needs?
Festivals and Cultural events hosted in Meghalaya in the year 2024 brought in a remarkable return of Rs 133. 42 crore against an expenditure of only Rs 23.50 crore. Our neighboring state is progressing, improving infrastructure, and generating income through such initiatives. In contrast, Nagaland’s reality remains very different.
Assam was the first northeastern state to attain statehood, Nagaland the second. Despite this, Nagaland lacks behind its neighboring state in development. Spending Crores on a festival raises an important question: shouldn’t these funds be used towards long-term development that benefits everyone?
This is not a call to stop celebrating our heritage. Hornbill is a source of pride. But cultural celebrations should not overshadow urgent developmental needs.
Hornbill must go on-yes. But it must go on alongside responsible governance and meaningful development, not in place of them. True progress lies not only in celebrating our culture, but in improving the everyday lives of the people of Nagaland.
