Manipur Governor Reviews Loktak Hydroelectric Project and Tourism Permit Reforms

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla held a series of meetings at the Raj Bhavan on October 27 to review key issues concerning the state’s power and tourism sectors. Discussions with officials from NHPC Ltd. and the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) centred around improving operational efficiency of the Loktak Hydroelectric Project and easing travel regulations for foreign tourists visiting Manipur.

NHPC Briefs Governor on Loktak Project Challenges

Gursharan Singh, Head of Project at NHPC Ltd. and General Manager (Electrical), apprised the Governor of difficulties faced in transporting large equipment vital for the renovation and modernisation of the Loktak Hydroelectric Project. He outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen maintenance systems and improve operational reliability. Governor Bhalla acknowledged these concerns and underlined the need for timely completion of renovation work to ensure uninterrupted power supply in the state.

Focus on Upgrading Power Infrastructure

The Governor emphasised that the Loktak project plays a crucial role in meeting the region’s energy requirements and called for enhanced coordination between departments to resolve logistical hurdles. He also urged NHPC to adopt innovative maintenance technologies to maximise generation efficiency and minimise downtime, reaffirming the project’s importance for sustainable energy security in Manipur and the North East.

Tour Operators Seek Streamlined Permit Process

Later in the day, H. Radhakrishna Sharma, State-in-Charge of IATO Manipur, led a delegation that met the Governor to discuss difficulties in obtaining Protected Area Permits (PAP) for foreign visitors. The team proposed reforms including allowing pre-arrival PAP applications during the visa process in travellers’ home countries and empowering recognized tour operators and IATO members to apply for permits on behalf of their clients.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The Loktak Hydroelectric Project is Manipur’s primary power generation facility managed by NHPC Ltd.
• Protected Area Permits (PAP) are mandatory for foreign tourists visiting certain parts of Manipur.
• IATO is the apex body of the Indian travel and tourism industry representing tour operators nationwide.
• Meetings were held at Raj Bhavan, Imphal, on October 27, 2025.

Governor Supports Sustainable Development Initiatives

Governor Bhalla appreciated IATO’s efforts to promote responsible tourism and assured that their suggestions for simplifying the permit process would be considered. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to balancing infrastructure development with the promotion of eco-friendly tourism, ensuring both energy security and economic growth for Manipur.