Sikkim Becomes Partner State for Hornbill Festival 2024: CM Flags Off Sikkimese Delegation to Nagaland

KalimNews with inputs from IPR, November 29, 2024, Gangtok : In a momentous occasion for cultural exchange and collaboration, Sikkim has been officially announced as the Partner State for the prestigious Hornbill Festival 2024. The announcement was marked by a grand ceremonial flagging off of the Sikkimese delegation by Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang-Golay at Ridge Park this morning, ahead of their journey to Nagaland’s Kisama Village, where the iconic festival will take place from December 1 to 10.

The Hornbill Festival, an annual celebration of Naga culture and traditions, serves as a platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the northeastern states. This year, Sikkim’s partnership with the festival is significant as it underscores the shared cultural legacies and solidarity among the northeastern states of India. The participation of Sikkim in this grand event provides an exceptional opportunity to promote and celebrate Sikkimese heritage on an international stage, further enhancing the state's cultural footprint.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay expressed his pride and excitement about Sikkim's participation in the Hornbill Festival. "This collaboration is a testament to our shared cultural legacy and the spirit of unity among our northeastern states," he said, while wishing the delegation a safe and successful journey. "I have full confidence that the Sikkimese delegation will represent our state with pride and enthusiasm. May this opportunity bring fruitful exchanges and strengthen the cultural ties between our states."

The Sikkimese delegation, numbering 144 members, will journey to Nagaland under the theme "50 Years of Statehood," celebrating the state's vibrant history and cultural heritage. The delegation includes self-help groups (SHGs), bikers, car rally teams, media personnel, and officials from key departments such as the Information and Public Relations Department, Culture Department, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Commerce and Industries Department, and social organizations.

In his address, CM Tamang-Golay urged the delegation to operate as self-sufficient representatives of Sikkim, acting as hosts rather than guests. He emphasized the importance of minimizing the logistical burden on festival organizers and representing Sikkim in the most effective manner. He also encouraged the delegation to observe and gather insights from Nagaland’s festival operations, which could be implemented in Sikkim for future cultural events and tourism development.

The delegation was accompanied by key officials including Mr. Tshering Thendup Bhutia, Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation and Commerce & Industries; Mr. Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, MLA cum Advisor, UDD and Food & Civil Supplies; Mr. Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia, Chairman of SIMFED; Mr. R. Telang, Additional Chief Secretary; Mr. C.S. Rao, Principal Secretary of the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department; Ms. Annapurna Alley, Secretary, IPRD; Ms. Karma D. Yutso, Secretary, Commerce & Industries Department; and Mr. Rim Dorjee Lepcha, Chief Engineer, Culture Department.

This year’s Hornbill Festival is expected to further strengthen the bonds between the northeastern states and highlight the region’s diverse cultural heritage. The event will also provide Sikkim with a significant platform to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges with other participating states, including Nagaland, which is home to one of India’s most colorful and historically rich tribal communities.

CM Prem Singh Tamang-Golay expressed his enthusiasm about Sikkim’s role as a Partner State, calling it a “blissful moment” for the people of Sikkim. He concluded, "May the Hornbill Festival be a resounding success, fostering greater cultural exchange, unity, and understanding among the diverse communities of India."

The Sikkimese delegation will remain in Nagaland throughout the duration of the festival, from December 1 to December 10, 2024, taking part in various cultural performances, exhibitions, and discussions that highlight the unique heritage of Sikkim and its people.