Tour Operators Meet Governor, Seek Ease in Protected Area Permit Process for Foreign Tourists

A delegation led by H. Radhakrishna Sharma, State-in-Charge of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Manipur, called on the Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, at Raj Bhavan, Imphal, today.

The delegation, comprising five members, submitted a representation highlighting the difficulties faced by tour operators in obtaining Protected Area Permits (PAP) for foreign tourists visiting the state.

To facilitate smoother travel and promote tourism, the association proposed enabling pre-arrival PAP applications at the time of visa processing in the traveller’s home country, and authorising approved tour operators and IATO members to apply for permits on behalf of their clients.

The Governor took note of the concerns and appreciated the association’s efforts towards strengthening and promoting sustainable tourism in Manipur.