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Travel
Manipur Requests Easing of PAP Rules for Indian-Origin Tourists to Spur Travel
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 31 Oct 2026, 05:20 AM
👁 19
The Manipur government has asked the centre to relax Protected Area Permit requirements for Indian-origin foreign visitors, aiming to boost tourist arrivals.
Manipur's state administration has formally approached the Union government seeking a relaxation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for foreign tourists of Indian origin. The move is part of a broader strategy to revive the state's tourism sector, which has struggled to attract visitors despite its rich cultural and natural attractions.
Under the existing PAP framework, foreign nationals, including those of Indian descent, must obtain special permission to travel to certain ecologically sensitive zones in the state. Critics argue that the procedure is cumbersome and deters potential visitors, especially those with familial or heritage ties to the region.
State officials contend that easing the PAP restrictions will encourage Indian-origin travelers to explore Manipur's heritage sites, hill stations and festivals, thereby generating additional revenue for local businesses and creating employment opportunities. They have indicated that the proposal will be reviewed in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism.
If approved, the revised guidelines could be implemented before the upcoming peak tourist season, allowing travel agencies and tour operators to promote Manipur more aggressively in domestic and diaspora markets.
Under the existing PAP framework, foreign nationals, including those of Indian descent, must obtain special permission to travel to certain ecologically sensitive zones in the state. Critics argue that the procedure is cumbersome and deters potential visitors, especially those with familial or heritage ties to the region.
State officials contend that easing the PAP restrictions will encourage Indian-origin travelers to explore Manipur's heritage sites, hill stations and festivals, thereby generating additional revenue for local businesses and creating employment opportunities. They have indicated that the proposal will be reviewed in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism.
If approved, the revised guidelines could be implemented before the upcoming peak tourist season, allowing travel agencies and tour operators to promote Manipur more aggressively in domestic and diaspora markets.