IT News
Imphal, Dec 19:
The Ministry of Home Affairs has reimposed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland due to heightened security concerns stemming from an influx of individuals from neighboring countries. The Manipur government announced the development on late Wednesday night, emphasizing the need for stringent monitoring of foreign visitors to these states.
Under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, foreign nationals must obtain a PAP to enter designated areas in India, especially in the Northeast. In 2011, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, under the UPA II government, lifted the PAP requirement for Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram, excluding China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, with the aim of boosting tourism in the region.
According to the guidelines, foreign nationals holding visas other than Tourist Visas and intending to visit Protected or Restricted Areas for non-tourism purposes must secure prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs before obtaining a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Also, the intended purpose of the visit—such as business, employment, or education—must be clearly endorsed on the individual’s passport. Both the Union Home Ministry and the respective state authorities have the authority to issue these permits.
