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Recently the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the States of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to restrict and monitor the movement of foreigners.
The circular stated that the relaxation provided to the three States under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 was being withdrawn with immediate effect.
What does the 1958 Order entail?
Foreigners cannot enter or stay in protected areas without a permit from the central government.
The permit includes details like entry location, residence, and stay duration.
Protected areas include parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and the entire States of Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim.
Additional areas such as Andaman & Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim are restricted.
When was the Order first relaxed?
The Protected Area Regime (PAR) for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland was relaxed on December 30, 2010.
The relaxation aimed to improve the security situation and promote tourism.
Initially for one year, the relaxation was extended multiple times and was set to last until December 31, 2027.
Why was it withdrawn?
The relaxation was withdrawn due to increasing security concerns in the border areas.
Ethnic violence in Manipur between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei groups since May 2023.
The influx of refugees from Myanmar after its 2021 military coup, adding to security concerns.
India shares a long border with Myanmar, complicating border security and the Free Movement Regime (FMR) suspension in January.
How does one obtain a PAP?
Protected Area Permits (PAP) can be obtained from Indian missions, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), district magistrates, or Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Citizens of Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, and nationals from these countries' origin need prior approval.
Foreigners must register with the local FRRO or district registration office within 24 hours of arrival.
Myanmar nationals now must register with the FRRO within 24 hours, even if they hold e-tourist or other visas.
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