📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Textiles, Government of India
Politics
Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio Calls for End of Protected Area Permit Regime
✍️ Northeast Today
🗓 12 Sep 2026, 02:33 PM
👁 24
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio urged the central government to scrap the Protected Area Permit system in Nagaland, citing its impact on tourism and local development.
Nagaland's Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio publicly appealed to the Union government to withdraw the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime that currently governs entry into the state. Rio argued that the permit system hampers tourism, restricts investment, and creates unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for visitors and businesses.
In a statement released to the media, the CM said that the PAP framework, a legacy of security concerns, no longer reflects the state's socio‑economic realities. He highlighted recent improvements in law and order and urged the centre to treat Nagaland like other Indian states that enjoy free movement.
The demand comes as the state seeks to boost its economy through greater connectivity and tourism promotion. While the central government has not yet responded, officials indicated that any change would require a review of the Inner Line and related statutes.
Stakeholders, including local tourism operators and civil society groups, have welcomed Rio's call, viewing it as a step toward unlocking Nagaland's growth potential.
In a statement released to the media, the CM said that the PAP framework, a legacy of security concerns, no longer reflects the state's socio‑economic realities. He highlighted recent improvements in law and order and urged the centre to treat Nagaland like other Indian states that enjoy free movement.
The demand comes as the state seeks to boost its economy through greater connectivity and tourism promotion. While the central government has not yet responded, officials indicated that any change would require a review of the Inner Line and related statutes.
Stakeholders, including local tourism operators and civil society groups, have welcomed Rio's call, viewing it as a step toward unlocking Nagaland's growth potential.