Protected Area Regime in Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland due to security concerns arising from the influx of foreigners from neighboring countries.

Purpose:

 To monitor the movement of foreigners and address security concerns. Permit Requirement: Protected Area Permit (PAP): Foreigners visiting these states must obtain a PAP in accordance with the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.

Extraordinary Reasons: 

Visits to protected areas are discouraged unless there are extraordinary reasons to justify them.

Historical Context: Initial Relaxation: 

The PAR was initially relaxed in 2010 for a year and extended for five years to promote tourism. Latest Order: The latest PAR order was issued on December 16, 2022, and was valid until December 2027

PAP vs ILP: 

 A Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required for foreign nationals to visit certain areas in India, while an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens to visit protected areas in certain states.