Manipur Tour Operators Request Streamlined Protected Area Permits for Foreign Tourists

Tour operators in Manipur have petitioned Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to allow pre-arrival Protected Area Permits (PAP) for foreign tourists. They proposed PAP applications during visa processing in the tourists' home countries. The Central government reimposed PAP in December 2024 for security reasons.

Tour operators in the Indian state of Manipur are seeking to ease travel restrictions for foreign tourists. They have formally requested Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to permit pre-arrival Protected Area Permits (PAP) during the visa processing phase in tourists' home countries, according to a recent statement from Raj Bhavan.

The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) Manipur, represented by State-in-Charge H Radhakrishna Sharma, has highlighted challenges faced by operators in securing PAPs for tourists visiting the region. The proposal includes authorizing tour operators and IATO members to act on behalf of their clients in obtaining these permits.

This request comes in the wake of the Central government's decision to reimpose PAP restrictions in Manipur and neighboring states in December 2024, citing security concerns. Governor Bhalla has acknowledged the association's concerns and efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Manipur.

(With inputs from agencies.)