Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio chaired a meeting of the High-Powered Committee (HPC) and concerned departments to review preparations for the upcoming Hornbill Festival 2026, at the Chief Minister's Residential Complex, Kohima, on 10th November 2026.

The meeting deliberated on matters relating to the smooth conduct of the upcoming hornbill festival. Discussions included the Protected Area Permit (PAP) issue, Chief Guest for the inaugural programme, and other arrangements for the festival.

Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism, Kovi Meyase briefed the meeting on the preparations being undertaken at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, laying emphasis on waste management, food stalls and sensitisation programmes for stall operators to ensure cleanliness and proper hygiene during the festival.

The meeting was also informed about the proposed BBQ Zone at the amphitheatre area and also stressed on promoting locally made products and ensuring that refreshments, including coffee and tea, served at Kisama are sourced from within Nagaland.

Public Health Engineering Department informed the meeting that restoration of water supply pipelines is underway, while the Power Department apprised the house of the ongoing installation of solar lighting. The meeting also discussed preparations for the stone-pulling ceremony which is an important component of the Hornbill Festival.

The Chief Minister stressed on the need for proper signage, zebra crossings and other necessary arrangements, to ensure the convenience and safety of tourists visiting the festival site, as well as other tourist spots. He also spoke on the State-wide mass social work scheduled for 13th November 2026 calling for active participation from all quarters, and directed the concerned departments to give wide publicity to the programme.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet members, senior government officials and representatives of various departments concerned.