Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s renewed appeal for the withdrawal of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime deserves serious consideration. His argument that PAP has become a constraint on tourism, investment and international engagement is difficult to dismiss, particularly when Nagaland is seeking greater economic participation and projecting itself to the outside world. But opening the doors is one thing; being ready to receive the world is another.
Tourism cannot be built around the Hornbill Festival alone. Nagaland has much more to offer: mountains and valleys, trekking routes, wildlife, village life, traditional food, crafts, music, community conservation areas and a rich cultural heritage spread across its districts. The problem is not a shortage of attractions. The problem is turning these attractions into dependable tourism products.
A beautiful destination is not automatically a successful destination. Visitors need good roads and connectivity, accommodation, sanitation, trained guides, reliable information, safety and rescue systems, waste management, digital booking facilities and professionally maintained sites. Much of Nagaland’s tourism infrastructure remains uneven, particularly outside established centres.
This does not weaken the case against PAP. If security concerns can be addressed through modern registration, monitoring and coordination mechanisms, there is a strong argument for replacing a restrictive regime with a more contemporary system. But removing PAP should be accompanied by an equally serious effort to prepare Nagaland for the opportunities that greater openness could bring.
The Hornbill Festival should be a gateway, not the destination. Visitors who come for the festival should have compelling reasons to stay longer, travel farther and experience other parts of the State.
The challenge, therefore, is twofold: convince Delhi to reconsider a PAP regime that may no longer reflect present realities, while putting Nagaland’s own tourism house in order.
Opening the door is only the first step. Nagaland must also ensure there is something worthwhile on the other side.
