Mon Dec 01 05:25:18 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:

Summary:

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is urgently requesting the Indian central government to permanently lift the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for Nagaland. He argues that the temporary relaxations for events like the Hornbill Festival are insufficient and that Nagaland deserves special consideration due to its unique circumstances. The appeal follows delays that prevented evangelist Franklin Graham from attending an event in Kohima. Rio also highlighted the positive impact of Christianity on Naga society and called for unity and peace.

News Article:

Nagaland CM Urges Centre to Lift Protected Area Permit, Cites Travel Hurdles for Dignitaries

Kohima, Nagaland – December 1, 2025 – Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has renewed his appeal to the central government to permanently abolish the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for the state, citing ongoing difficulties faced by foreign visitors, including religious figures.

Speaking at the ‘Nagaland United: A Gathering of Faith, Hope and Revival’ event held at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on Sunday, Rio expressed his frustration that evangelist Franklin Graham was unable to attend the event due to delays in obtaining the necessary PAP clearance. Graham was also scheduled to participate in the opening of the Hornbill Festival.

The PAP, required for foreigners visiting certain sensitive areas in India, was reimposed on Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram in December of last year. While the central government has temporarily relaxed the PAP requirement for Nagaland from December 1st to 10th to facilitate the Hornbill Festival, Rio emphasized that this is not a sustainable solution.

“Our state deserves to be treated differently, based on the reality on the ground,” Rio stated, highlighting the state government’s repeated requests to the Centre for a permanent lifting of the PAP since its re-imposition. He had personally written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah requesting early clearance of visas for foreign tourists.

Rio also took the opportunity to welcome Rev Robert Cunville of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) and reflected on the historic 1972 ‘Billy Graham Crusade’ in Nagaland. He emphasized the transformative role of Christianity and education in Naga society and called for continued unity, peace, and brotherhood as the festive season approaches.

Thousands attended the revival service, which included worship, prayer, and a message from Rev. Cunville. The event underscored the ongoing significance of faith and community in Nagaland. The Chief Minister’s renewed push for the removal of the PAP regime reflects the state government’s determination to promote tourism and international engagement while addressing perceived barriers to access.

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