(a)"national permit" means a permit granted by the appropriate authority [to the owner of a motor vehicle authorising him to operate as a public carrier] [Substituted for certain words by the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 1977, (27 of 1977), Section 7 (ii) (w.e.f. 1.9.1977).] throughout the territory of India or in such contiguous States, not being less than five in number (including the State in which the permit is issued), as may be specified in such permit in accordance with the choice [indicated by such owner] [Substituted for certain words by the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 1977, (27 of 1977), Section 7 (ii) (w.e.f. 1.9.1977).] to whom such permit is granted;