Kohima: The Nagaland government on Monday signed an agreement with the British Council in India, confirming the United Kingdom as the country partner for the Hornbill Festival 2025, one of India’s largest tribal festivals.
According to an official statement, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Alison Barrett, Director of the British Council in India, signed the agreement in New Delhi. British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron was also present at the signing.
As part of the collaboration, the British Council will curate select festival events, including a performance by Scottish artist Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) on December 2. The government said the partnership aims to strengthen cultural exchange and broaden opportunities in tourism, education, and the creative industries.
The airline unveiled a new Boeing 737-8 featuring a Tsüngkotepsü-inspired livery, honouring Ao Naga heritage, and announced a 15 per cent fare discount on flights to and from Dimapur for festival-bound travellers for bookings made between November 20 to 30, the official statement added.
The aircraft will be formally received by the chief minister at Dimapur Airport on November 22. Air India Express will also support artist travel and operate a dedicated Hornbill kiosk at the airport.
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Held annually from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, the Hornbill Festival is Nagaland’s premier tourism festival. Officials said the new partnerships are expected to boost global visibility, enhance accessibility, and enrich the overall visitor experience.
