With the 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival set to open on December 1, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has urged the Union Home Ministry to expedite the clearance of Protected Area Permit applications for international delegates. The Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand comes as the state prepares to welcome visitors from across the world for its largest cultural event. Rio wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, stressing that delayed permits could affect the participation of key performers, dignitaries and cultural teams.
The Hornbill Festival, held annually in Kohima, remains one of India’s most celebrated cultural showcases. It draws international tourists, researchers, artists and indigenous groups. Rio said many invited foreign delegates continue to wait for their PAP approvals. Since the festival begins in just a few days, any further delay could disrupt travel plans and weaken the state’s efforts to promote tourism. His appeal reflects the urgency felt within the government as preparations enter their final phase.
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PAP requirement for foreign visitors
Protected Area Permits are mandatory for foreigners visiting Nagaland and several other northeastern states due to their strategic and sensitive locations. Although the process aims to ensure security, it often takes time. The Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand highlights how procedural delays can affect major events, especially those involving international guests. Rio said the festival depends heavily on global participation, which enhances cultural exchange and strengthens Nagaland’s presence on the international tourism map.
Officials involved in festival planning said several cultural troupes from Southeast Asia, Europe and Africa have submitted PAP requests weeks earlier. Many of them are scheduled to perform on the festival’s opening days. Without timely permits, their attendance remains uncertain. Organisers fear this could affect schedules that involve months of coordination. They argued that the presence of international groups sets the Hornbill Festival apart from other cultural celebrations.
State prepares for large turnout
Tourism officials expect this year’s festival to draw one of the biggest crowds yet. Nagaland has promoted the event across multiple global platforms, and early reports suggest strong interest from foreign travellers. Hotels, homestays and transport services have prepared for a surge in visitors. The Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand, therefore, comes at a critical time when finalising guest arrivals is essential.
The government has also completed key infrastructure upgrades. Roads leading to Kisama Heritage Village—the main venue—have been renovated. Additional amenities, including stalls, viewing platforms and security arrangements, are in place. Rio said the state is ready to host guests, but PAP delays remain the one major hurdle that needs immediate attention.
International engagement central to the festival
The Hornbill Festival thrives on diversity. Performances by foreign cultural teams add depth to the celebrations and encourage collaboration between artists from Nagaland and abroad. Many delegates also participate in business meets, tourism summits and academic exchanges. The Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand reflects concerns that delayed approvals may reduce the scope of these interactions.
Local entrepreneurs who rely on tourism said global participation boosts business and provides exposure. Handicraft sellers, traditional weavers and food vendors often see sharp increases in income during the festival. They hope the Centre will act quickly to ensure all expected guests can attend without obstacles.
Rio pushes for swift action
Neiphiu Rio’s letter to the Union Home Minister stressed that the Hornbill Festival promotes India’s soft power and fosters goodwill between cultures. He said Nagaland contributes to the country’s global image through its vibrant heritage and festivals. The Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand, in his view, is not only about the state’s interests but also about supporting India’s cultural diplomacy.
Rio urged the Centre to direct concerned departments to process pending applications on priority. He also asked for improved coordination between state and central agencies to avoid such delays in the future. Festival organisers have echoed his request, saying timely PAP clearance is essential for smooth execution.
Public response and anticipation
Residents of Nagaland are eagerly awaiting the start of the festival. Many expressed concern about the delays but remain hopeful that the Centre will respond swiftly. Communities involved in cultural performances said international participation inspires local youth and enriches the overall experience. They believe that resolving the Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand will help maintain the festival’s reputation as a global event.
The Hornbill Festival has grown beyond a cultural showcase; it represents unity, diversity and pride for the people of Nagaland. With only days left, the state government remains focused on ensuring every invited guest can reach Kisama without administrative hurdles.
As preparations continue, all eyes are now on the Centre’s response. The resolution of the Nagaland PAP Clearance Demand will determine whether this year’s festival reaches its full potential and continues its legacy as one of India’s most dynamic cultural celebrations.
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