Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Mizoram, a state known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has been witnessing a remarkable growth in tourism. By December 2023, the state recorded over 3.63 lakh visitors, including 4,033 foreigners. This surge in tourism was detailed by the state’s Tourism Minister, Lalrinpuii, in response to a question posed by BJP legislator Dr. K Beichhua in the state assembly. Official data revealed that, following the COVID-19 pandemic, Mizoram’s tourism industry had recovered rapidly.
In the fiscal year 2020-21, the pandemic caused a massive downturn, with only 20,564 domestic tourists and just three foreign visitors. However, the subsequent year saw a sharp recovery. In 2021-22, domestic tourist arrivals reached more than 1.32 lakh, and the number of foreign visitors increased to 94. The upward trend continued into 2022-23, with 2.18 lakh domestic tourists and 3,554 foreign visitors exploring the state’s charm. By the end of 2023, Mizoram had recorded 2.15 lakh domestic and 3,884 foreign tourists.
Over the past years, domestic tourists have accounted for the majority of arrivals, comprising 98.22 percent of the total, with foreign nationals making up only 1.78 percent. While this trend indicates the growing interest of local travelers, the state’s potential to attract international visitors has been significant, contributing to the growth of the regional tourism industry.
The Reimposition of the Protected Area Regime (PAR)
Despite the encouraging growth in tourism, officials in Mizoram are concerned about a potential decline in international visitors. This apprehension stems from the reimposition of the Protected Area Regime (PAR) by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in December of the previous year. The PAR mandates that foreign nationals must obtain Protected Area Permits (PAPs) to visit certain regions, including Mizoram. The reason behind this policy shift is primarily linked to security concerns in regions bordering Myanmar and the ongoing political unrest in that country.
The MHA’s decision follows growing worries about the possibility of foreigners crossing into Myanmar via Mizoram. Chief Minister Lalduhoma addressed the matter in the state assembly on March 10, expressing concerns that individuals from foreign countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, had entered Myanmar through Mizoram and allegedly participated in activities, including arms training for insurgent groups. This includes one foreign national who was arrested for possessing live ammunition, an incident that added further weight to the argument for the reimposition of the PAR.
Impact on Mizoram’s International Tourism
The reintroduction of the Protected Area Regime threatens to deter international tourists who once visited Mizoram to experience its pristine landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences. Foreign visitors have typically been drawn to the state’s natural beauty, including its lush forests, rolling hills, and vibrant communities. As these travelers are now required to obtain special permits to enter, it may discourage potential tourists who prefer hassle-free travel experiences.
Moreover, with the growing concerns about border security and potential conflicts, international travelers may feel uneasy about visiting regions that are closely linked to neighboring volatile areas like Myanmar. The fear of encountering delays or administrative challenges due to the PAP requirements may lead to a decline in foreign tourist arrivals, which will likely affect the overall tourism revenues and growth that Mizoram has experienced in recent years.
Local Tourism’s Role Amid International Setbacks
Although the reimposition of the PAR poses a setback for international tourism, domestic tourism in Mizoram is likely to continue thriving. As the data shows, domestic arrivals have been the backbone of the state’s tourism growth, with a significant rise in local interest in exploring Mizoram’s diverse attractions. The increase in domestic travel to the state suggests that local tourists will continue to seek out the region’s scenic beauty, culture, and traditions, even if international tourism declines.
Given that domestic visitors make up the bulk of the tourism market, the state can still capitalize on the growing demand for domestic travel and emphasize promoting Mizoram as a regional destination. However, the broader tourism sector will still feel the impact of reduced international arrivals, especially in sectors that rely on foreign visitors for their business, such as hotels, tour operators, and cultural tourism events.
Long-term Implications for the Travel Industry
The reimposition of the Protected Area Regime (PAR) may have broader consequences for the travel industry in Mizoram and beyond. As other states and regions in India and neighboring countries also grapple with security concerns and geopolitical challenges, the rise in travel restrictions could result in a reevaluation of tourism policies. The need for Balanced tourism policies that protect national interests without stifling the growth of the tourism sector will be essential in the coming years.
The situation also underscores a larger trend in the global travel industry—travelers’ security concerns. As international tensions and political instability affect certain regions, tourists will become more discerning about where they travel and what risks they are willing to take. This shift could influence the global travel market, with countries adopting new approaches to border security and tourist visas to attract international visitors.
