India, Nov. 28 -- Two days ahead of the Nagaland's Hornbill Festival, which is set to begin from December 1 coinciding with the statehood day, chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday appealed to Union home minister Amit Shah for removal of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime from the state and also to clear permits of the representatives of the partner countries of this year's festival.

In a letter to Shah, CM Rio stated that the 10-day festival welcomes tourists from across the country and the world, and it plays an important role in the economy of the state, especially in generating livelihood and employment opportunities.

"This year, the festival will host six Partner Countries, each participating in various cultural events, business...