Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has once again appealed to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to immediately clear pending Protected Area Permit (PAP) applications for foreign delegates arriving for the 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival, set to begin on December 1. In a fresh letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday, Rio expressed concern over the delay, noting that the permits remain unresolved even as the state prepares to host thousands of visitors from India and abroad.
This is the Chief Minister’s second communication to the Centre this month, following an earlier request on November 18. He reiterated Nagaland’s long-standing demand for the complete removal of the PAP system, arguing that the requirement continues to restrict foreign tourist inflow and affect the state’s global image. The PAP regime—applicable to foreigners visiting sensitive northeastern regions such as Nagaland—has been a major point of contention for the state government.
Rio emphasised that the Hornbill Festival, celebrated annually alongside State Commemoration Day, is among India’s most prominent cultural tourism events. The 10-day festival is known for its diverse cultural showcases, traditional performances, indigenous food, business interactions and vibrant community participation. This year, delegates from six Partner Countries are scheduled to take part in cultural showcases, business roundtables and networking sessions, making timely PAP approval essential.
While preparations for the festival have been completed, Rio said the absence of permit clearances just days before the inaugural ceremony has caused “serious concern.” He urged the Union Home Minister to extend his “immediate and personal attention” to expedite the process so visiting delegates can participate without disruption.
Rio also reminded the Centre of Nagaland’s longstanding association with the NDA government and the stability offered by the PDA coalition in the state. He said lifting or simplifying the PAP regime would greatly strengthen tourism, improve connectivity and bolster the state’s integration with the rest of the country. A positive decision, he added, would send a strong and reassuring message to the people of Nagaland as they prepare to host the flagship cultural event.
