Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, rich flora and fauna, and unique cultural heritage, Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful places in India. However, a trip to this farthest state in the northeastern part of India has more to it than planning an itinerary and booking flight tickets. An entry permit is a prerequisite for travelers, Indians or foreigners, visiting this protected border state. While Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to gain entry to Arunachal Pradesh (the 1873 Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act prohibits Indian citizens from entering Arunachal without a valid ILP), a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is mandatory for travelers arriving to this state from abroad.
Acquiring an entry permit has been an offline process for long, but now Arunachal Pradesh launched an e-ILP portal to facilitate travelers applying for Inner Line Permit. The ‘Tourist e-ILP portal’, developed by the IT department of the state, was launched by Chief Minister Pema Khandu on 17 November.
The digitalization of the ILP issuance procedure will eliminate the waiting period besides simplifying the ILP application and approval process, noted CM Pema Khandu. Police personnel may verify the authenticity of the e-ILPs presented by tourists at the check gate using a special mobile application, thus ensuring faster movement of tourists.
The application fee for the online permit costs INR 100. e-ILPs are issued for a single person as well as for groups. Documents needed to apply for e-ILP are a pan card/driving license/passport/voter ID and passport-size photograph. Applicants may receive an e-ILP in the period between one hour and five working days, according to the official site. Travelers can also apply for instant e-ILPs for INR 400.
