DIMAPUR, Dec 11 ? World War II Museum will be the added attraction to the newly established ?Naga Heritage Village? at Kisama, situated some 12 Kms away from the state capital in between Phesama and Kigwema on the National Highway 39. ?The site, in a short span of time has been able to find a place in the tourist map of not only the country but of the whole world.
The success story of this year?s Hornbill Festival, which has, since last four years became an annual event in the calendar of Nagaland Government, organized at the site, has given it the desired recognition. ?Let it be in its fourth year, at last, the Hornbill Festival, also termed as the festival of the festivals for the people of Nagaland, organized by the state government with an aim to revive, protect and preserve the richness and uniqueness of the Naga heritage has a permanent site of its own. ?Till last year local ground, Kohima was the venue of the festival. ?The State Art and Culture Department will maintain the upcoming World War II Museum at the heritage complex. ?Director Art & Culture, Smti Kevininuo Meru disclosed that proposals for construction of the museum have been cleared and the Union Ministry of Culture has given Rs. 5 crore initially.
The Department would start the 1st phase of construction very soon. ?She also disclosed that major display in the museum would include relics of 2nd World War like armouries, photographs, artifacts etc. ?Right now we are collecting materials from all over Nagaland and interviewing people who have seen and participated in the 2nd World War,? she added. ?Other attractions in the Heritage village would include a commercial complex, for leasing out to local entrepreneurs for handloom and handicraft products, souvenir outlets, a flower display, sale and exhibition by the State Horticulture Department.?The Complex on completion would be open through out the year with various activities, shows, exhibitions, displays, cultural events, competitions, etc. which could be availed and enjoyed by all.?