Kohima, Oct 23: Tribal Hohos have sought details of the Nagaland Government’s proposed privatisation of the Kisama Heritage Village complex, raising concerns over the future management of traditional morungs and the protection of Naga cultural heritage.
At a coordination meeting convened by the Directorate of Tourism in Kohima on October 22, representatives of tribal organisations called for the proposed privatisation modalities to be shared with them before a separate consultation is held on the issue.
The meeting was convened to discuss preparations for the 27th Hornbill Festival, scheduled to be held from December 1 to 10.
The Hohos sought clarity on the State Cabinet’s decision to privatise the entire Kisama complex, with some representatives expressing reservations about placing tribal morungs under private management.
They stressed that any proposed arrangement must safeguard the cultural significance of the morungs and the traditions they represent.
The representatives also called for consultation with tribal stakeholders before the government proceeds with the plan, given Kisama’s importance as a centre of Naga cultural heritage.
Nagaland Commissioner and Secretary for Tourism Kovi Meyase underscored the role of tribal Hohos in organising the annual festival and urged them to complete renovation works on their respective morungs by the second week of November.
On demands for increased renovation funds, the Tourism Department acknowledged rising costs and said the matter would be taken up with higher authorities. It also assured the Hohos that necessary funds would be released in time to complete the works.
The meeting also discussed cultural presentations, logistical arrangements and other preparations for the 10-day festival.
Director of Tourism Veyielo Doulo asked tribal Hohos to communicate their requirements for car passes well in advance to facilitate arrangements.
The department said the number of food stalls at Kisama would be restricted this year and confirmed that the plastic-free zone policy would remain in force throughout the festival. Adequate water and power supply would also be ensured, it said.
President Droupadi Murmu is likely to attend the 2026 Hornbill Festival, adding significance to this year’s celebrations.
The Directorate of Tourism thanked the tribal Hohos for their participation and cooperation in preparations for the festival, which showcases Nagaland’s cultural traditions.
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