Reimposition of Protected Area Regime in Northeast India

On December 17, 2023, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reinstated the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram. This decision mandates that foreigners must obtain prior permission and Protected Area Permits (PAP) to visit these states. The reimposition comes in response to escalating security concerns in these border regions.

Background of the Protected Area Regime

The Protected Area Regime was established under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958. This order restricts foreign nationals from entering certain areas without a permit from the Central government. The permit specifies the entry point, residence, and duration of stay. The regime applies to various regions, including parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and the entire states of Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim.

Relaxation of the Regime

The PAR was initially relaxed on December 30, 2010, due to improved security and to promote tourism. This relaxation was intended for one year but was extended several times, ultimately lasting until December 31, 2027. The recent withdrawal of this relaxation indicates a shift in the security landscape.

Reasons for Reimposition

The reimposition of the PAR is attributed to rising security issues, particularly in Manipur, which has experienced ethnic violence since May 2023. The conflict involves the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has brought into light the role of external influences in this unrest. The situation has been exacerbated by an influx of refugees from Myanmar, following the military coup in February 2021.

Impact of the Myanmar Crisis

The military coup in Myanmar has led to migration into India. Over 40,000 refugees have settled in Mizoram, with around 4,000 entering Manipur. Many of these migrants belong to the Kuki-Chin-Zo ethnic group, which has cultural ties to communities in the Northeast. This demographic shift has raised concerns about security and social stability in the region.

Obtaining a Protected Area Permit

Foreigners wishing to visit these states must secure a PAP from various authorities, including Indian missions and the MHA. Citizens from Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan require prior approval. Additionally, all foreigners must register with the Foreigners Registration Officer within 24 hours of arrival. This requirement now extends to Myanmar nationals, who previously enjoyed exemptions under certain visa conditions.

Current Security Measures

In January 2023, the MHA suspended the Free Movement Regime that allowed movement within 16 kilometers of the India-Myanmar border. This decision further puts stress on the heightened security measures being implemented in response to the ongoing tensions in the region.

Future Implications

The reimposition of the PAR reflects the Government of India’s prioritisation of security in its northeastern states. It indicates a cautious approach to foreign tourism and migration in light of regional conflicts. The evolving dynamics of border security will likely influence future policies regarding foreign access to these sensitive areas.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the Protected Area Regime on tourism and local economies in Northeast India.
2. Explain the historical context of the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 and its relevance in contemporary India.
3. What are the socio-political impacts of the influx of refugees from Myanmar into Northeast India? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Comment on the significance of border security measures in maintaining national integrity and regional stability in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the Protected Area Regime on tourism and local economies in Northeast India.

1. The reimposition of the PAR limits foreign tourist access, potentially decreasing tourism revenue.
2. Local businesses that rely on tourism may face economic challenges due to reduced visitor numbers.
3. Tourism development initiatives may be stalled or reversed, impacting local job creation.
4. Increased bureaucracy for obtaining permits can deter potential tourists.
5. On the positive side, enhanced security may attract more domestic tourists seeking safe travel options.

2. Explain the historical context of the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 and its relevance in contemporary India.

1. The 1958 Order was established to control foreign national access to sensitive border areas for security reasons.
2. It reflects India’s historical concerns over national security, particularly in regions with ethnic tensions.
3. The Order has evolved, with periods of relaxation and reimposition based on the security landscape.
4. Contemporary relevance lies in its role in managing foreign influence amid rising geopolitical tensions.
5. The Order is critical in balancing tourism promotion with the need for security in sensitive regions.

3. What are the socio-political impacts of the influx of refugees from Myanmar into Northeast India? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. The influx has led to demographic changes, increasing tensions between local communities and refugees.
2. Ethnic ties between Kuki-Chin-Zo migrants and local populations can lead to both solidarity and conflict.
3. Resource competition, such as housing and employment, may exacerbate local grievances.
4. Political responses have included calls for stricter immigration controls and security measures.
5. Examples include the unrest in Manipur, where local leaders cite external influences as a cause of violence.

4. Comment on the significance of border security measures in maintaining national integrity and regional stability in India.

1. Border security is crucial for preventing illegal immigration and protecting national sovereignty.
2. It helps mitigate risks of cross-border terrorism and insurgency, particularly in sensitive regions.
3. Effective border management encourages regional stability by addressing local grievances and tensions.
4. Security measures can enhance the perception of safety, encouraging domestic and foreign investment.
5. In the context of Northeast India, strong border security can maintain ethnic harmony and prevent conflicts.