Imphal, November 19: Acknowledging that imposition of Protected Area Permit/ Restricted Area Permit System is one of the primary impediments to the growth of tourism industry in the North-Eastern States, the 53rd conference of the North East Council held at New Delhi has decided to urge the Union Home Ministry to review the continued imposition of the system in the region.

The conference attended by all the Governors and Chief Ministers of North Eastern States resolved to persuade the Union Government review the system in consultation with the State Governments, said an official source.

It also recommended for relaxation of the Inner Line Regulation system with a view to promote domestic and international tourism in the region.

It is pertinent to mention here that under the existing Protected Area Permit system, any foreign tourist visiting the State can't stay in Manipur for more than 10 days.

Moreover, he/she is required to seek permission from the Union Ministry to visit the State.

To urge the Railway Ministry to expand rail connectivity in the region was another resolution adopted during the meeting.

The NEC conference also decided to ask the Inland Waterway Authority of India to extend and improvise inland waterways in the North Eastern States under hundred percent financial sponsorship of the Authority.

Meanwhile the State Govt has been planning to connect Parbung, Nungba, Tamenglong through a waterway once the Tipaimukh dam is constructed.

As per the plan of the State Government, this waterway, to be called National Waterway II would further connect the State with Kolkata and Tipaimukh would be developed as a proper port, disclosed the source.

The meeting agreed to hold the North East Business Summit at Guwahati in April next year for which private investors would also be invited.

Observing that power sector is one of the most important prerequisites for development of the region, the participating States agreed to draw up plans for generation of hydro power, thermal and non-conventional energy.

The conference also settled the dates and places to host sector-wise meetings of NEC till April 2008.In July next year, Imphal will host a NEC meet on education and sports followed by another such meeting in 2008 on rail connectivity.

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