TaFMA Excellence Awards 2025 was held on June 19, 2025 at the Regional Centre of Excellence for Music & Performing Arts (RCEMPA), Jotsoma, Kohima. Organized by the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), the awards ceremony recognized and honoured the outstanding contributions by musicians, artists, actors and creative professionals who brought laurels to the state by achieving distinction at the national and international platforms. This year's edition was particularly noteworthy as it featured the unveiling of a grand piano gifted to the state by world-renowned music composer Dr. A.R. Rahman and the release of the 25th Hornbill Music Festival Coffee Table Book.

The event was graced by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio as the Special Guest accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, Advisors and other esteemed dignitaries. In his speech, Dr. Rio recognized the exceptional talents of Naga artists who have excelled in their respective disciplines across the world and expressed immense pride in their contributions, which brought laurels to both the state and the country. He highlighted that the establishment of TaFMA formerly known as Music Task Force in 2003 was aimed at promoting the culture and tradition of Nagaland through arts, music, and sports across the world and also to provide job opportunities and employment to the youth of Nagaland.

He also lauded TaFMA's decision to host music festival across all districts of Nagaland. He encouraged the youth to continue making the state proud by showcasing their talents in the national and global arena and urged the youth to uphold the state's reputation with excellence. He thanked Dr. Rahman for his gift and, more importantly, for his love and dedication to the people of Nagaland. He expressed his gratitude for this partnership, which continues to strengthen the state's cultural and economic fabric.

Dr Rio concluded his speech by congratulating all the award winners and assured the state government’s continued commitment to empowering the creative sector through meaningful recognition and infrastructure.

Earlier in the program, a Welcome Address was delivered by Chairman of TaFMA, Theja Meru where he thanked the Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio for his patronage, vision, and leadership. He also congratulated the awardees for their hard work and encouraged them to continue bringing more accolades to the state.

Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman IDAN, Abu Metha emphasized the role of music and arts, spotlighting Naga musicians who are making waves and putting India on the global stage.

Metha highlighted the Naga story, told through the talents of Naga artists, as a cornerstone of cultural identity and underscored the importance of documenting Nagaland's way of life for future generations. He noted that the music and arts industry has not only excelled but has also contributed significantly towards national recognition, rising to earn respect among the global community. He also stated that under the guidance and leadership of the Chief Minister, the state government is focused on developing Nagaland’s creative economy.

This initiative aims to generate employment opportunities for the youth while serving as a revenue source for the state. He concluded his speech with a call to action, urging continued support and collaboration from the community to empower Nagaland’s youth and strengthen the state’s economic foundation.

The event also featured a diverse musical  lineup, including Special Performances by Inato Assumi, Palak Chauhan,Temsuinla Longchar, Trance Effect and the Nagaland Madrigal Singers.  Ten individuals were awarded the TaFMa Excellence Awards 2025. Hito Kiho was declared the Ultimate Achiever Award winner.  List of awardees: Fifth Note Band, Ruopfuzhano Whiso, Arenla Subong, Lenen Jamir, Tiameren Aier, Nagaland Madrigal Singers, Trance Effect, Bendang Walling, Alobo Naga and Hito Kiho.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Project Director, TaFMA, Dr. Hovithal Sothu, expressing gratitude to all participants, sponsors, including Toyota, and attendees for making the event a success.

(Samuel, IA)