Relevance: GS-1 (Culture – Tribes & Festivals) | Source: PTI, Govt. of Nagaland

News (Brief)

Nagaland’s 26th Hornbill Festival has recorded 1.13 lakh visitors in the first six days, with most attendees being domestic tourists while foreign arrivals remained steady.

About the Festival

Held every year from 1–10 December at Kisama Heritage Village, the Hornbill Festival—called the “Festival of Festivals”—celebrates the cultural heritage of Nagaland’s tribes. Started in 2000, it showcases traditional crafts, dances, music, cuisine, and indigenous games.

Related Tribes, Wildlife & Culture

• Represents 16 major Naga tribes (Ao, Angami, Konyak, Lotha, Sumi, Chakhesang, Phom etc.)
  
• Named after the Great Indian Hornbill, culturally revered in Naga folklore and art
  
• Promotes conservation awareness as hornbill populations decline due to habitat loss
  

Tourism Significance

A major pillar of Nagaland’s cultural tourism, drawing global visibility and economic benefits to the state.

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland:

1. The festival is jointly organised by the Government of Nagaland and the Ministry of Tourism as part of the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative.
   
2. The festival derives its name from a bird that plays a significant cultural role in Naga tribal traditions.
   
3. All 17 major Naga tribes participate in the festival, showcasing their distinct cultural practices.
   

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 2 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3