Nagaland Assembly seeks withdrawal of Protected Area Permit regime

The Nagaland Legislative Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution urging the Government of India to withdraw the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime in the state. Legislators argued that the current restrictions are hindering tourism, investment, business engagement, and international partnerships.

Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that Nagaland’s peaceful environment and growing economic potential warrant a reconsideration of the regime. The assembly noted that sectors like tourism and the creative industries have become vital sources of livelihood, particularly for the state's youth. The resolution highlighted that initiatives such as the Hornbill Festival have helped project Nagaland internationally, but the PAP regime creates impediments to such growth.

While the state government reaffirmed its commitment to national security, it proposed using modern technology and coordination with central agencies to monitor foreign nationals instead of maintaining the permit regime. The assembly requested the restoration of the relaxation that had previously been in operation before the Ministry of Home Affairs reinforced the application of the PAP in December 2024.