Why in the news?

• Nagaland has urged the Union Home Minister to urgently review the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime in the state.

Protected Area Permit (PAP)

• Definition: PAP is an official permission required by foreign nationals to visit certain sensitive and protected areas in India.
• Governing Orders: Regulated under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, and Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963.
• Purpose:
  • National Security: Regulate entry near international borders.
  • Cultural Preservation: Protect indigenous communities and their lifestyles.
  • Environmental Conservation: Safeguard fragile ecosystems.
• Areas Requiring PAP:
  • States: Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttarakhand.
  • Islands: Certain islands in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
• Who Issues PAP: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in consultation with state governments.
• Conditions for PAP:
  • Limited duration of stay (up to 30 days).
  • Foreigners must travel in groups of at least two persons.
  • Restricted activities like photography and interactions with tribal communities.

Source: Economic Times