Centre agrees to relax the PAP to facilitate Hornbill Festival

The MHA has communicated the matter to the Nagaland government

IH News Desk

REGIONAL, November 29, 2025: The Government of India has communicated to the Nagaland government that the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime will be relaxed for the upcoming Hornbill Festival as stated in a letter from the Ministry of Home Affairs Saturday.

This decision comes after numerous appeals from the Nagaland Government over the past year, including meetings between the Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, and central leaders as well as correspondence with the Government of India including a recent letter to Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Nagaland State Cabinet has also expressed its opposition to the PAP regime.

The Home Ministry's letter highlighted that the 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival will feature six partner countries and emphasized the significance of tourism in Nagaland's economy, particularly in creating job opportunities. It noted the expectation of tourists from various regions for the festival and acknowledged the state's request for lifting the PAP regime to promote tourism, enhance ease of movement and facilitate better integration with the rest of India.

The Government of India has taken this request into account, recognising the Hornbill Festival's importance to Nagaland.

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