Understanding Arunachal Pradesh Inner Line Permit System

Arunachal Pradesh, located in North-East India, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich tribal culture, and diverse flora and fauna. The state is home to several protected areas that are crucial in preserving the region's unique biodiversity. To safeguard these sensitive areas and conserve the cultural heritage of the local tribes, the Indian government has implemented the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Arunachal Pradesh and other North-Eastern states.
An official document issued by the Government, called the Inner Line Permit, is required for inward travel into Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Mizoram under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958. 

What is an ILP?​​​​​​​
An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a legal document authorized by the government of Arunachal Pradesh that grants permission to Indian citizens from other states to enter the state and stay for a specified period. The permit is mandatory for all Indian citizens except for the residents of the state to visit Arunachal Pradesh. The ILP system is designed to regulate the inflow of visitors to the state and ensure the safety and security of its inhabitants. The permit is issued after the verification of the applicant's identity and purpose of visit and is subject to renewal or extension.

Purpose of ILP
The ILP system was introduced in 1873 to regulate the entry of outsiders into tribal areas in northeastern India. The primary objectives of the ILP system are:
●    To protect the tribal communities and their cultural heritage from outside influences.
●    To preserve the fragile ecosystems of the region.
●    To maintain the internal security of the state.

Types of ILP
There are three main types of ILP:
●    Tourist ILP: Issued for a maximum of 14 days and can be extended for an additional 14 days.
●    Trekker ILP: Issued for a maximum of one month and is required for trekking expeditions in certain areas of the state.
●    Research ILP: Issued for a maximum of six months and is required for research purposes.
 

How to Apply for an ILP
ILPs can be obtained online or from the offices of the Deputy Commissioner or Additional Deputy Commissioner in any district of Arunachal Pradesh. The application process is simple and requires the following documents:
●    A copy of a valid identity proof (passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.)
●    Two passport-sized photographs
●    A copy of the local address proof (hotel booking, invitation from a local resident, etc.)
●    A self-addressed stamped envelope for sending the permit
 

Fees
The fees for ILPs vary depending on the type of permit and the duration of stay. The current fees are as follows:
●    Tourist ILP: Rs. 300 for up to 3 days, Rs. 500 for up to 14 days.
●    Trekker ILP: Rs. 500 for up to one month.
●    Research ILP: Rs. 1000 for up to six months.
 

Validity
The validity of an ILP depends on the type of permit. Tourist ILPs are valid for a maximum of 14 days, while trekker ILPs are valid for a maximum of one month and research ILPs are valid for a maximum of six months.
 

Extension of ILP
ILPs can be extended for an additional 14 days, except for research ILPs. Extensions must be applied for at the office of the Deputy Commissioner or Additional Deputy Commissioner in the district where the extension is required.
 

PAP ( Protected Area Permit) For Foreign Tourist
Foreign tourists in a group of 2 or more persons can obtain PAP online by visiting https://indianfrro.gov.in/eservices/home.jsp for a period of 30 days. They can also be availed physically from:
Govt. of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi
The Resident Commissioner,
Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Kautilya Marg,
Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.
Phone: 011-230113915/23013956/26880901

The Secretary (Tourism)
Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh
Itanagar-791111
Phone: 0360-2212457
The Commissioner (Home)
Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh
Itangar-791111
Phone: 0360-2212632
Foreign tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh shall have to pay USD 50 per head as Royalty to the Govt of Arunachal Pradesh

Penalties for Violating ILP Rules
Violating ILP rules can result in a fine of up to Rs. 5000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year.
 

History of ILP
The Inner Line Permit system dates back to 1873 when the British Government introduced the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations during their conquest of Assam in the Anglo-Burmese War of 1824-26. While the British Government pursued an isolationist policy for the North East Frontier Tracts, they introduced the Inner Line Regulation in 1873, which prescribed an inner line to limit movement. The state authority was given power under Section 4 of the Regulation to provide a permit for passing or residing in any of these inner line areas. This Regulation aimed to preserve the culture and identity of the indigenous tribes in the region by granting them some autonomy in their personal tribal affairs. During British rule, the Regulation prohibited the entry of British Subjects or Indians into protected or restricted areas, but post-independence, the word “British Subject” was replaced by “Citizens of India”. The Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation still applies in present-day Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
 

Conclusion:
The Inner Line Permit (ILP) system serves as an important safeguard for both the tribal communities and the environment of Arunachal Pradesh. By following the regulations and obtaining an ILP, visitors can contribute to the sustainable development of the state. The ILP system does not impede anyone's freedom of movement, but rather, it is a measure put in place to protect the peace-loving tribes of the North Eastern States from any potential harm. This system helps preserve their indigenous character by controlling the influx of tourists, which could otherwise affect their cultural heritage. Similar to the provision in the Indian constitution that protects the identity and culture of the tribal people, the Arunachal Pradesh Inner Line Permit system is not an unwelcoming regulation but a practical system that safeguards the indigenous people from losing their identity and becoming endangered. In the modern world, development should not come at the expense of indigenous communities, and this permit system upholds that principle. If the ILP system were to be abolished, it could lead to the extinction of tribal culture, rights, and heritage. 

OurGuest plans and organizes tours for guests wanting to travel to Arunachal Pradesh. We also manage the ILP documents on their behalf. 

Written by Omanso Tayang
Omanso, an avid backpacker with an engineering background from Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, returned to his home state after completing his education in Chennai & NERIST. Passionate about promoting the lesser-known destinations, Oman has traveled across most parts of Arunachal to find unique locations like Anini, Dong Valley, Namsai etc. When not exploring, Oman enjoys camping, trekking, dancing and going on culinary adventures. 

Please do reach out to us at 7669503993 or email us at contact@ourguest.in to plan your Arunachal holiday.