Leh, April 08, 2025: A delegation led by Mr. Tsewang Dorjay, President of the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA), called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) to discuss concerns regarding the Protected Area Permit system and tourism development in Ladakh.

The delegation raised issues related to the new Protected Area Permit process, which requires foreign tourists to visit the eFRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in person, causing delays of at least 45 minutes due to a single login system at the DC office. They emphasized that these procedural requirements are hindering the smooth arrival and processing of tourists, adversely affecting the region’s tourism sector. They requested the intervention of the HLG to simplify the Protected Area Permit process.

Further, they highlighted the inconvenience of the dual Form C requirement, which mandates foreign visitors to complete the form both at the airport and their hotel, describing it as cumbersome. The delegation also urged the HLG to review and increase the allocation of funds for tourism promotion in Ladakh, noting that the current allocation of ₹10 crores by the Union Territory Administration is insufficient. Additionally, they requested permission to use satellite phones to enhance communication in the region.

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After consulting Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, IAS, Hon’ble Lt Governor assured the delegation that efforts would be made to address their concerns. He informed them that a letter would be sent to the concerned ministry to simplify the Protected Area Permit process. Regarding tourism promotion funds, the HLG explained that allocations are made based on the Union Territory Administration’s available budget, which has been reduced by the Union Finance Ministry.

Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, IAS; Principal Secretary Sh. Sanjeev Khirwar, IAS; Commissioner/Secretary Dr. Vasantha Kumar, IAS; Commissioner/Secretary to the HLG Dr. L Franklin, IAS; Secretary Sh. Yatindra Maralkar, IAS; DC Leh Sh. Santosh Sukhadave, IAS; and AD Tourism Leh Ms. Padma Angmo, JKAS, were present during the meeting.