AIZAWL: The Mizoram government is getting set to reinstate the Protected Area Regime (PAR) after the central government directed to restore the system that remained relaxed for 13 long years. State Home Secretary Vanlalmawia confirmed the development and emphasized efforts in place to adhere to the new requirements.
Under the reimposed PAR, foreign nationals visiting Mizoram will have to procure Protected Area Permits or Restricted Area Permits, though enforcement at key entry points such as Lengpui Airport has yet to start .
“We are working on the implementation of the order, and officials from the Foreigner Registration Office have been trained on the issuance of permits through e-portal,” Vanlalmawia said. A public notice on the changes may also be issued if needed, he added.
Even after relaxation of PAR since 2011, foreigners visiting Mizoram were compelled to register with the Foreigner Registration Office within 24 hours of arrival.
The PAR covers Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Nagaland, and parts of other northern and western states. The exemption has been relaxed since 2011 to promote tourism that excluded visitors from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China. The government renewed the policy several times, with the last such renewal valid until 2027.
However, the MHA recently rolled back this relaxation in Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland on security grounds related to cross-border influxes. The Chief Secretaries were informed last week that the relaxation stands were withdrawn and foreign visitors must seek permits under the Foreigners Protected Areas Order, 1958.
This move will regulate foreign entry while meeting emerging regional challenges.
