Context: The Manipur government has announced that the Central government has re-imposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, all of which share borders with Myanmar.

• The reimposition of the PAR comes after 13 years of relaxation and is aimed at addressing security concerns, primarily the alleged illegal immigration from Myanmar.

About Protected Area Regime (PAR)

• Introduced under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, which is part of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

• The regime was created to regulate the movement of foreigners in sensitive areas near international borders.

• It applies to regions between the Inner Line and the International Border, primarily areas close to Myanmar in these states.

• Objectives: To ensure national security by restricting foreign nationals’ access to sensitive regions.

Implications

• For Foreign Visitors: Special permits and approvals required, potentially discouraging tourism.

• Impact on Tourism and Development: Could slow international tourism and investments, reversing earlier benefits.

• Enhanced Security: Allows tighter control over foreign movements, addressing illegal migration.

• Border Control: Strengthens border management, reducing unauthorized cross-border activities.

Areas Covered

• Pre-2010: Applied to all of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

• 2010 Relaxation: The regime was relaxed for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, allowing foreigners to visit these areas without special permits.

• 2024 Reimposition: The regime has been reimposed in these states, particularly due to security concerns related to illegal immigration and border management.

Structural Mandate

• Mandate: Foreign nationals must apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP) through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) or state authorities to enter these areas.

• Implementation: The PAPs specify the duration of stay and movement routes. Unauthorized extension or deviation from routes is prohibited. The system is managed under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.

• Exemptions: Some countries may have exemptions, and Indian citizens generally do not need PAPs to travel in these areas.