New Delhi/Kohima, Nov 29 (NationPress) In a recent move, the Centre has agreed to ease the Protected Area Permit (PAP) restrictions for international visitors attending the Hornbill Festival, which kicks off on December 1, as per government officials.

A senior representative in Kohima indicated that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has informed Nagaland's Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen that the Indian Government has sanctioned the relaxation of the PAP requirements for this 10-day cultural celebration.

This decision comes after the state government’s multiple requests over the last year for a temporary easing of restrictions to facilitate greater international involvement in the festival.

Nagaland's Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has engaged with central leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on numerous occasions and has also sent several letters to the Indian Government.

In his latest correspondence to the Home Minister dated November 28, the Chief Minister urged the Centre, as a partner in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), to expedite the approval process for PAP applications from international delegates. The state cabinet has also expressed its disapproval of the PAP's enforcement in Nagaland.

The Home Ministry's response to the Chief Secretary acknowledged that the 26th iteration of the Hornbill Festival will feature six partner nations and emphasized the significant role of tourism in Nagaland's economy, particularly in creating jobs and livelihood opportunities.

The letter highlights that visitors from across India and beyond are expected to flock to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival. The partner nations will engage in various cultural showcases, business discussions, and networking opportunities, while the state government has advocated for lifting the PAP restrictions to promote tourism, enhance mobility, and foster integration with the rest of the nation.

The MHA's correspondence indicates that the Indian Government has taken the Nagaland government's request into account, recognizing the importance of the Hornbill Festival.

In his letter, Chief Minister Rio pointed out that the Hornbill Festival, one of India's most esteemed cultural events, coincides with the state’s commemoration day and draws thousands of attendees from both domestic and international locations.

Describing the festival as a crucial driver for the state’s economy, he underscored its essential role in creating employment and livelihood opportunities. A more relaxed PAP regime would enhance international cultural exchanges and further promote India's cultural identity.

He noted the urgency of the situation, particularly with the festive season around the corner, especially the Hornbill Festival 2025, which consistently attracts significant numbers of both domestic and foreign visitors annually. Reports suggest that the current PAP stipulations may deter many potential attendees. The PAP, imposed in regions like Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, regulates and limits the entry of foreign nationals into designated areas.

The 26th edition of the ten-day Hornbill Festival, which aligns with Nagaland's Statehood Day, is scheduled to take place from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama.