New permit rules aim to attract foreign visitors to Northeast India
The 14th international tourism mart in Tawang focused on streamlining entry procedures for protected areas to increase international footfall.
The 14th international tourism mart concluded in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, on Friday with a focus on easing entry for foreign nationals. Five of the eight northeastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland, are currently protected areas.
The Ministry of Home Affairs led a technical session to discuss facilitating access to restricted regions. Tourism Ministry officials said reforms are being implemented to simplify permit applications.
Foreign nationals may now apply for permits online through Indian diplomatic missions or via Foreigners Regional Registration Offices. Alternatively, people can apply in person within the relevant states or union territories.
Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that while promoting tourism is a priority, authorities must consider national security and strategic needs. He noted the requirement for a calibrated approach.
According to Mizoram Tourism Department officials, tourism permits are usually issued for 60 days, while non-tourism permits can last 180 days or up to a year. New reforms allow visitors to move freely within approved zones rather than being restricted to specific spots.
Official data shows that out of 1.5 crore tourists in the eight northeastern states, only 1.5 lakh, or 1 per cent, were foreign nationals. Permits do not allow access to sensitive installations, which require separate clearances.