Context:

The Union Home Ministry recently reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to restrict and monitor the movement of foreigners. 

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• This decision, made in response to growing security concerns, immediately ends the relaxation of restrictions that had been in place since 2010 to encourage tourism in these states. 
• As a result, foreigners wishing to visit these states must now obtain prior permission and Protected Area Permits (PAP) from the government. 
• The circular stated that the relaxation provided to the three States under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 was being withdrawn with immediate effect.

Why was PAR Withdrawn?

• Influx of Undocumented Migrants: Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram share borders with Myanmar, a country experiencing instability since a military coup in 2021.
  Over 40,000 refugees from Myanmar’s Kuki-Chin-Zo ethnic group have entered Mizoram, with thousands more in Manipur.
  Ethnic ties between these refugees and local communities have led to challenges in maintaining security.
• Ethnic Violence in Manipur: Ongoing clashes between the Kuki-Zo tribal community and the Meitei people since May 3, 2023, have resulted in over 250 deaths and 60,000 displacements. The state government suspects the involvement of "foreign hands" in the unrest.
• Border Control and Suspension of Free Movement Regime (FMR):  India shares a 1,643 km border with Myanmar. The Suspension of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), allowing unrestricted movement within 16 km of the border, has heightened security risks and border control concerns.

Timeline of PAR Relaxation and Withdrawal

• 2010: PAR relaxed in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to promote tourism, initially for one year.
• 2012–2022: Relaxation extended periodically due to improved security.
• 2022: PAR further relaxed till December 2027.
• 2023: Amid ethnic violence and rising tensions in Manipur, the relaxation was re-evaluated.
• 2024 (December): PAR reimposed with immediate effect.

How to Obtain a PAP?

• Foreigners can obtain a PAP from several sources, including Indian Missions Abroad, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), State Home Commissioners, and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
• Special Conditions: Citizens of Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, and individuals of their origin need prior approval from the MHA.
• Mandatory Registration: All Foreigners visiting these three states must register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 24 hours of arrival.
• Specific Requirements for Myanmar Nationals: Myanmar nationals, previously exempted, must now compulsorily register with the FRRO within 24 hours of arrival.

Impact of the Reimposition

• Tourism: May decline due to restrictions on foreign visitors.
• Security: Strengthened monitoring of border areas aims to address risks related to illegal migration and cross-border threats.
• Ethnic Relations: The measure underscores the sensitivity of maintaining harmony in the conflict-prone northeastern states.