Neiphiu Rio writes to Amit Shah over PAP delay for foreign delegates

DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking immediate action on the clearance of Protected Area Permit (PAP) applications for international delegates attending the 26th Hornbill Festival, scheduled to begin on December 1.

According to an update from DIPR, the chief minister said that PAP approvals for foreign participants remain pending with the Ministry of Home Affairs, even as preparations for the festival have been completed. With only days left before the opening, he said that the delay has caused “serious concern,” and requested the home minister’s “immediate and personal attention” to ensure the permits are issued without further setback.

Rio noted that this year’s edition of Hornbill Festival—coinciding with Nagaland’s State Commemoration Day—will feature representatives from six partner countries who are expected to take part in cultural presentations, business roundtables and networking sessions.

He described the festival as one of India’s most prominent cultural events and a crucial driver of Nagaland’s economy, generating tourism-related employment and livelihood opportunities across the state.

Also read: Naga People’s Front must expand footprint to Assam, says Neiphiu Rio at CEC meeting

Reiterating the long-standing appeals to lift the PAP regime from Nagaland, the chief minister said that permit requirement continues to pose procedural hurdles for international visitors and affects both the state’s economy and its public image. He recalled earlier positive assurances from the home minister on the matter and urged the Centre to reconsider the policy.

He added that the removal of PAP restrictions would significantly improve ease of movement, boost tourism and strengthen Nagaland’s integration with the rest of the country. Pointing to the state’s continued support to the National Democratic Alliance under the People’s Democratic Alliance banner, he said a positive intervention at this stage would send a “strong and reassuring message” that the NDA government stands with the people of Nagaland in their shared goal of nation-building.