The Manipur government has collected Rs 13.3 crore as state revenue from the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system over the last five years, marking a significant financial contribution.
This revenue was generated from the issuance of over 9.7 lakh ILPs to individuals entering the state between January 1, 2020, and December 9, 2024.
The permits, issued both online and offline, were processed through five ILP offices located at Jiribam, Mao Gate, and other entry points along the state’s borders with Assam and Nagaland.
The ILP was introduced in Manipur on January 1, 2020, making it the fourth state, after Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram, to adopt this regime.
As per the ILP system, individuals from outside Manipur are required to obtain a permit to visit the state. Foreigners, however, are exempt from this requirement and must instead register with the Foreigner Registration Office (FRO) upon arrival.
A Historic Step: ILP and Manipur’s Autonomy
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, reflecting on the state’s history, described the introduction of the ILP five years ago as the “most significant and positive step” taken by the central government since Manipur’s statehood in 1972. Singh recalled the long struggle for the ILP, noting that the permit system was a crucial victory for the indigenous people of the state.
“Today, we are remembering and recognising the struggles and sacrifices for getting ILP in the state. After the granting of statehood in 1972, the ILP is the most significant and positive step ever given by the central government,” Singh said on December 9, 2024.
Singh also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other central leaders for their support in ensuring the implementation of the ILP.
He credited the ILP system with safeguarding the rights of the indigenous population and praised the Centre for its focus on the state's welfare.
“Manipur has 52 per cent general category people, and yet ILP was given because of its uniqueness and the Centre’s keenness to protect it. If we are unable to praise these central leaders who had thought for the welfare of the state, who else should we do it for?” Singh remarked.
ILP as a Symbol of Protection and Revenue
Since its implementation, the ILP has also contributed significantly to the state’s revenue, even during challenging times such as the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing socio-political crises.
The state government has collected nearly Rs 13 to 14 crore as fees for issuing ILPs, providing a steady stream of income for Manipur.
The Chief Minister also reflected on the sacrifices made during the ILP movement, highlighting the death of one person and the injuries sustained by several others during police action.
Despite these hardships, Singh stressed that the ILP system’s implementation remains an important achievement for the state’s protection and economic well-being.
Follow us
