The Centre has eased Protected Area Permit (PAP) rules for foreign tourists visiting Nagaland during the Hornbill Festival, following repeated requests from the state government. The Ministry of Home Affairs informed Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen that a temporary relaxation has been approved for the 10-day event beginning December 1, enabling wider international participation in one of India’s most prominent cultural festivals.
Nagaland had sought the relaxation for over a year, emphasising that the PAP regime was limiting foreign attendance. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had also taken up the matter with central leaders and highlighted the festival’s significance for tourism, livelihoods and cultural exchange.
The Hornbill Festival’s 26th edition will feature six partner countries, with international delegates expected to join cultural showcases, business meetings and networking programmes. The MHA noted that easing access would support tourism growth and improve ease of movement.
The PAP, applicable in Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, regulates foreign entry into designated zones. This year’s festival will be held from December 1–10 at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama.
