Introduction to Now No Inner-line permit required to visit Milam Glacier in Uttarakhand
The Milam glacier in Uttarakhand, which is tucked away in the Himalayas, has long been a well-kept secret that has enchanted travelers, hikers, and thrill seekers alike. But for years, the need for an inner-line permission had prevented people from enjoying this marvel of nature. The Indo Tibetan Border Police Force (ITBP) has made a crucial decision, removing this limitation, reviving tourism in the area. The Milam glacier will soon enter a new age and become more accessible than ever thanks to this choice.
What is an Inner Line Permit (ILP)?
A government-issued document known as an inner line permit (ILP) is necessary for non-residents to enter and travel through certain restricted or protected regions of a nation, frequently for security, environmental, or cultural preservation reasons. It guarantees that authorities can keep an eye on and control access to these areas while preserving their distinctive features and reducing any threats.
Milam Glacier vs ILP
The inner-line permission has long been a hindrance to people desiring to discover Milam glacier’s stunning splendor. This glacier beauty, which was 61 kilometers from Munsiyari, was frequently inaccessible because of the administrative barriers the permission required imposed. The ITBP has made the historic choice to exclude tourists, hikers, and mountaineers traveling to Milam Glacier from the inner-line permission requirement. Following a request from the Pithoragarh district administration, this decision was made in accordance with a letter sent by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 1993.
The Munsiyari Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Yashbir Singh, praised this choice and emphasized how it will boost travel to the area. The SDM said that the decision to eliminate the inner-line permission need had been communicated to them in a letter from Robin Kumar, Deputy Commandant of the ITBP’s 14th Battalion. Given the hazards connected with landslides and road closures, particularly beyond Lilam, which is located around 12 kilometers from Munsiyari, the ITBP has historically enforced this permission system to guarantee the security of tourists in the area. However, the Ministry of Home Affairs, traders, visitors, and the government all increased their pressure, forcing the ITBP to reevaluate this approach.
The ITBP’s historic decision will enable more investigation of this high Himalayan region and open the Milam glacier to anyone. Trekkers and visitors may now have wonderful treks across the breathtaking landscapes of Uttarakhand, while researchers will have easier access to study the glacier’s distinctive features.
Conclusion
The ITBP’s decision to remove the necessity for visitors to Milam Glacier to have an inner-line permit signifies a significant shift in Uttarakhand’s tourist industry. It makes a clear statement about how eager the area is to welcome explorers and adventurers. The Milam glacier is positioned to become a must-visit location for tourists looking to experience the mystique of the Himalayas thanks to safety precautions put in place and the assurance of unrestricted access to this natural wonder. As the boundaries come down, a new age of exploration and awe opens up for everyone who wants to take in the magnificence of the Milam glacier.
Contributed by Sanal Pillai
Edited by Imtiaz Ullah