With the 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival set to commence on 1st December 2025, Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging immediate action on the clearance of Protected Area Permit (PAP) applications for international delegates and reiterating the long-standing demand for lifting the PAP regime from the state.
In his letter, the Chief Minister highlighted that the Hornbill Festival—one of India’s most prominent cultural events—coincides with the State Commemoration Day and attracts thousands of visitors from across India and abroad. Calling the festival a crucial driver of the state’s economy, he noted its vital role in generating employment and livelihood opportunities.
This year’s edition will feature six Partner Countries, whose representatives are scheduled to participate in cultural showcases, business roundtables and networking sessions. According to the Chief Minister, all preparations for the festival have been completed, but clearance of PAPs for foreign delegates remains pending with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
He expressed concern that with only days remaining before the festival’s opening, the delay has created “serious concern,” and requested Shah’s “immediate and personal attention” to ensure urgent issuance of the permits.
Reiterating his repeated appeals for the removal of the PAP regime from Nagaland, the Chief Minister said that despite earlier positive assurances from the Home Minister, the permit requirement continues to pose procedural challenges to tourists, adversely impacting both the state’s economy and its image.
Emphasising Nagaland’s long-standing partnership with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and its participation under the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) banner, the Chief Minister appealed for the Centre’s support. He said that lifting the PAP regime would significantly boost tourism, improve ease of movement and further strengthen Nagaland’s integration with the rest of the country.
A positive intervention, he added, would send a “strong and reassuring message” that the NDA government stands firmly with the people of Nagaland in the shared goal of nation-building.
(DIPR)