Infamous as the Land of the Head Hunters and often referred to as the Switzerland of the East, Nagaland is one of the Seven Sister States in northeast India, bordered by Arunachal Pradesh to the north, Manipur to the south, and Assam to the west.

Until 1957, Nagaland was a district of Assam known as the Naga Hills. The State of Nagaland was formally inaugurated on 1 December 1963, and a democratically elected government took office in 1964. Today, Nagaland stands as a treasure-trove of natural and cultural resources.

Kohima is the capital city, while the twin Chümoukedima–Dimapur forms the largest city. Historically, Samagudting (now Chümoukedima) was the headquarters of the Naga Hills Government from 1848 to 1877, before being shifted to Kohima.

Weather in Nagaland remains pleasant for about eight months (mid-October to mid-June) and humid for the remaining months. Annual rainfall averages 1,800–2,500 mm, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 40°C.

Medziphema—the venue of the Conference—is located about 20 km from Chümoukedima–Dimapur. From its hills, one can view the Burrail Range in the south, hills and forests in the west, the Dhansiri Valley in the east, and the Doboka Hills in the north, behind which lies the mighty Brahmaputra River, the Bhutan hills, and the towering Himalayas.

The Patkai Range, part of the Eastern Highlands, passes through Nagaland. Though less rugged than the Himalayas, its peaks add to the region’s natural grandeur.

Nagaland is home to at least 16 recognized tribes including Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, Sema, Zeliang, and Kachari. These tribes are often grouped into two broad sections—the kilted (Angamis) and the non-kilted tribes. The Angamis, in particular, stand out with their unique dress, architecture, and cultivation methods, making them distinct from all other tribes.