The Nagaland Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on September 3, 2026, urging the central government to withdraw the Protected Area Permit regime for foreign visitors. Moved by the Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister, the resolution was approved through a voice vote without opposition following a debate that included the Chief Minister, other ministers, advisors, and an MLA.
Lawmakers argued that the permit requirement creates unnecessary obstacles to tourism, business partnerships, cultural exchange, and international engagement, which provide vital employment for young people. They noted that neighbouring northeastern states without similar restrictions have been better positioned to attract foreign visitors and business delegations, while permit friction discourages spontaneous or short-notice visits.
The Protected Area Permit is a mandatory travel authorization required under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order of 1958, separate from standard Indian visas. Although relaxed in 2011, the regime was reinstated on December 17, 2024. While the resolution does not bind the central government to act, state officials plan to formally forward it to New Delhi to register the state’s unified political position and add pressure ahead of further discussions.