European Union (EU) has lifted its travel advisory for Assam,Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced Saturday . This affects citizens from EU's 27 member countries . Expected to boost tourism in region.
For decades, travel warnings from countries,including Europe,kept visitors away due to unrest. Advisory first issued in 1979 amid violent Assam Agitation,with groups like United Liberation Front of Asom involved. But after letter from Hervé Delphin, EU’s Ambassador to India,Chief Minister confirmed restrictions lifted,saying EU's decision shows renewed confidence in Assam.
On social media,Sarma noted EU's action follows moves by Australia and Japan,who revised their travel advisories after Advantage Assam 2.0 event in February 2025. Event aimed to attract foreign investment and showcase state's potential to international audiences.
“Recent development follows visit of EU diplomats to Assam, strong vote of confidence for Assam," Sarma remarked . He emphasized long-standing advisory hurt state’s economy, deterring tourists and investors. “A State suffers financially when a foreign country views it as trouble-torn,” he said, hopeful advisory lifting will increase tourist inflow .
To seize opportunity,Sarma urged locals to develop hospitality sector with homestays and nature-based campsites. Noted foreign tourists often prefer nature experiences over luxury accommodations. “We can also build nature-based campsites and offer them our indigenous cuisines,” he suggested.
But restrictions remain for three districts—Charaideo,Dibrugarh,and Tinsukia—where Disturbed Areas Act and Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act still enforced. These areas near borders with Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland linked to extremist activities.
EU member states include countries like Austria,Belgium, France,Germany,Italy. Lifting travel advisory shifts how Assam seen internationally,maybe improving business and cultural exchanges…
