The Morung Express reports that the Nagaland state government is preparing to request the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to lift the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirements for foreign nationals. This decision, aiming to boost tourism, was reached by the state Cabinet during a meeting on January 6. The PAP requirement, as per the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order of 1958, was reinstated by the MHA in December 2024 for Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram, after being relaxed since 2010-11 during the UPA regime. The reinstatement was reportedly due to security concerns stemming from regional instability, including political turmoil in Bangladesh, prolonged conflict in Myanmar, and ethnic tensions in Manipur.
Apart from the PAP issue, the Cabinet discussed the Naga political issue and the proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) for the eastern Nagaland bloc. Consensus was reached on urging both the Centre and Naga Political Groups to progress swiftly towards a peaceful resolution. Regarding the FNT, the Cabinet aligned itself with the Eastern Nagaland Legislators Union (ENLU), supporting the stance of the 20 legislators representing Eastern Nagaland.
This strategic move by the Nagaland government reflects its intent to open up the region for tourism benefits while staying abreast of the security dynamics affecting the region. Further, it highlights the ongoing commitment to addressing regional political challenges and ensuring the interests of the eastern Nagaland populace are represented and safeguarded in negotiations with the central government.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-cabinet-for-reconsidering-re-imposition-of-pap-travel-regime
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-01-06 23:18:00
