Question : Mansarovar Yatra through Nathu La

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China to open an additional route for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra through Nathu La and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether China has refused to open the gates for the first batch of pilgrims scheduled to travel to Kailash Mansarovar through Nathu La route;

(c) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the Indian Government has taken up the matter with the Chinese Government and if so, the details thereof along with the outcome thereto; and

(e) the corrective measures taken/being taken by the Government to facilitate the smooth passage of pilgrims via the new route?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a) A new route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathu La Pass in Sikkim became operational in 2015 on the basis of a Memorandum of Understanding signed in September 2014.

(b) to (e) This year the Yatra via the Nathu La route has been deferred after the Chinese Government cited unfavourable conditions to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Yatra via Nathu La route. The Government of India is engaged with the Chinese Government on this matter.