Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced that the much-awaited Eco Park Kohima is nearing completion and is set to open to the public ahead of the Hornbill Festival 2025, scheduled from December 1 to 10. Rio personally inspected the ongoing construction on Thursday and expressed satisfaction with the progress. Situated between the Capital Cultural Hall and the Indoor Stadium—opposite the Red Cross building—the Eco Park is being developed as a major urban green space and cultural hub under the Nagaland Forest Management Project (NFMP). The project is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through an Official Development Assistance (ODA) framework.
Speaking to reporters at the site, the Chief Minister highlighted that the park would host a range of activities and exhibitions during the festival. “The park will showcase Naga products, handloom and handicraft, Second World War antiques, and Naga artifacts, all aimed at promoting ‘Made in Nagaland’,” Rio said. Officials said the Eco Park will feature a Kohima Peace Memorial symbolising Indo-Japanese friendship, a view tower blending Naga and Japanese architectural styles, an open-air amphitheatre, and parking for approximately 50 vehicles. Additionally, stalls representing all 17 Naga tribes will display handloom, handicraft, and traditional art forms, complemented by cafeterias and restaurants for visitors.
Once inaugurated, the Eco Park is expected to become one of Kohima’s premier landmarks, celebrating Nagaland’s rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty while strengthening international friendship through sustainable development.
