News

Minister: Ayodhya to become world’s largest ‘spiritual tourism’ destination by 2030

Ayodhya will become the world’s largest spiritual tourism destination by 2030, stated Union Minister for Tourism G Kishan Reddy, while addressing the Deepotsav event at the Ram Katha Park in Ayodhya. In his address, he added that the Ram Mandir will be constructed soon, which will help attract around five crore tourists every year, and will also increase the tourism possibilities in the state. Revealing more, the Union Minister added that the Ram Mandir will be constructed soon, which will make Ayodhya one of the world’s biggest tourist cities by 2030, as people from across the world will visit this spot to offer prayers at the temple. He further added that since Ayodhya is a city of resolve, heritage, and is a spiritual city, it will soon become a city of tourists too. Elaborating more on this, Reddy added that an international airport is also being constructed in Ayodhya, along with improving works in train and road connectivity. He revealed that the state and Central governments are working on the development and infrastructure of the city, and that the government has estimated the number of tourists to cross five crore within the next 10 years. Further, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adiyanath also added that when the Ram temple gets built in Ayodhya, it will become one of the best spiritual cities in the world, and will become India’s cultural capital. Recently, the Department of Tourism, Gov ernment of Uttar Pradesh also created a new Guinness World Record by lighting close to 9.5 lakh diyas on the banks of Saryu River in the city.

Read more

Mumbai airport gears up to handle 660 daily flights for its winter schedule

With air travel witnessing a steady revival, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is gearing up to handle about 660 daily flights during the winter season, when the frequency of flights is expected to go up. “With a planned average of 660 daily flight movements, arrival and departure movements will have equal distribution - 330 average daily flight movements each,” a CSMIA spokesperson said. “Destinations including New Delhi, Goa, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, which were on the top in terms of the highest flight frequency during the 2020 and 2019 winter schedules,” the CSMIA spokesperson said. According to the ratings agency ICRA, a strong year-on-year growth for domestic and international traffic for Indian carriers is expected in FY2022. Some of the leading airlines that are expected to have a high number of weekly flight operations include IndiGo (240), SpiceJet (120) and Go First (90), an airport official said. The winter schedule of 2020 had witnessed average daily passenger traffic as follows: IndiGo (21,035), Air India (6,774), SpiceJet (5,855), Vistara (4,911) and Go First (4,645).

Read more

Hong Kong, Vietnam Recognise Bharat Biotech's Covaxin for International Travellers

Hong Kong and Vietnam on Wednesday joined the list of countries that have approved Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin for emergency use. The vaccine has already obtained a nod from the World Health Organization (WHO). So far, Hong Kong has approved 14 Covid-19 vaccines and Vietnam has approved nine, including the Covaxin. On Monday, the UK government also announced that India’s homegrown vaccine Covaxin will be added to its list of approved jabs for international travellers from November 22A, meaning that those inoculated with the shot will not have to self-isolate after arrival in England. The United States, which also lifted its Covid-19 travel restrictions after 21 months, will approve Covaxin, as well; all FDA and WHO-approved vaccines are to be recognised by US authorities. Covaxin has been given an okay in various countries till now. But despite approval for the jab, direct travel to some countries is not functional yet, as the central government has extended the suspension on scheduled international passenger flights till November 30, 2021 amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Only countries that have air-bubble pacts with India offer direct flights to their locations.

Read more

Maldivian Airlines commences first nonstop flight between Delhi and Male

National carrier of Maldives, Maldivian Airlines has started flying nonstop between India’ capital Delhi and Male with first direct flight on the route. The inaugural flight departed from Delhi on November 4 with the service open for operations three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flight will be operational from Male on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The airline will be using its Airbus A320 aircraft. The nonstop flight is offering in-flight meals and standard baggage for passengers travelling in both economy and business class configuration. The airline is also offering lounge access, exclusive check-in counter and other benefits to business class passengers. Recently, the Indian High Commission in the Maldives has informed that no visa will be required for Maldivians travelling to India from from mid-October. “No visa required from October 15 for Maldivians travelling to India for medical, business and tourism purposes. Maldives will be the first beneficiary of Visa-free-travel since Covid restrictions were imposed by India in March 2020. This move restores the bilateral visa-free agreement of December 2018,” the High Commission had tweeted. The visa free exemption is only applicable to foreign tourists who are coming into India on charter flights from Maldives. Maldivian currently operates flights to India, Bangladesh, Thailand and China from its main hub at Velana International Airport. Maldivian is also the only operator in the country who offer both seaplane and wheelbase flights in Maldives.

Read more

IRCTC to operate ‘Shirdi Yatra’ special tourist train

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will operate a ‘Bharat Darshan’ special tourist train ‘Shirdi Yatra’ from Madurai on December 1. The special tour will cover Pandharpur, Shirdi, Shani Shingnapur and Mantralayam. The package cost for the seven days tour is ₹7,060 per person, including GST, and the train journey will be in sleeper class. The tour has the following features: accommodation in non AC hall/dharmashalas; non-AC road transfers; south Indian vegetarian food; tour escort and security for each coach, travel insurance and provision of protection kit such as masks and sanitisers. The exclusive budget tourist train package can be availed by people residing in Tamil Nadu. The Tourism Information and Facilitation Centre in Tiruchi can be contacted for reservation and other details in the mobile number 8287931974, an IRCTC press release said.

Read more

Planning a foreign trip? Countries you can travel to, rules you need to follow

The world has gradually started to reopen despite the threat of Covid-19 pandemic still being present in our lives. With India allowing international flights to resume, rules remain in place for Indians and expats in the country planning to travel abroad. International travel for now will be allowed under the air bubble arrangement India has entered with other nations. These are reciprocal agreements between India and other countries which offer similar benefits to passengers from both ends. Here is a list of 28 countries that allow travel from India and rules that passengers need to follow. 1. Afghanistan Indian and Afghan carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Afghanistan and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Afghanistan i. Afghanistan nationals/residents and foreign nationals holding valid Afghanistan visas, if required; and ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid visa from Afghanistan and destined for Afghanistan only. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Afghanistan with the particular visa category before issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. RECOMMENDED FOR YOU Gold prices today rise for 3rd day in a row, near 3-month hig... Gold prices today rise for 3rd day in a row, near 3-month hig... Petrol, diesel prices today: Fuel rates remain constant. Late... Petrol, diesel prices today: Fuel rates remain constant. Late... Tamil Nadu: IMD warns of extremely heavy rains; Chennai appoi... Tamil Nadu: IMD warns of extremely heavy rains; Chennai appoi... TCS extends last date for applying in its MBA hiring program ... TCS extends last date for applying in its MBA hiring program ... - From Afghanistan to India i. Indian nationals stranded in Afghanistan; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding Afghanistan passports; and iii. Foreigners (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 2. Bahrain Air India/Air India Express and Gulf Air are now permitted to operate services between India and Bahrain and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Bahrain i. Bahraini nationals/residents; ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid visa from the Kingdom of Bahrain and destined for Bahrain only. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Bahrain with the particular visa category before issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Bahrain to India i. Indian nationals stranded in Bahrain; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding Bahraini passports; and iii. Bahraini nationals (including diplomats) holding valid visa issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 3. Bangladesh Indian and Bangladeshi carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Bangladesh and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Bangladesh i. Nationals/residents of Bangladesh and foreign nationals holding valid visas from Bangladesh; ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid visa from Bangladesh. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Bangladesh before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Bangladesh to India i. Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding passports issued by Bangladesh; and iii. Bangladeshi nationals/residents (including diplomats) and foreigners (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 4. Bhutan India has created an air travel arrangement with Bhutan. Indian and Bhutanese carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Bhutan and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Bhutan i. Nationals/residents of Bhutan and foreign nationals holding valid visas from Bhutan, if required; ii. Any Indian national. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Bhutan with the particular visa category before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Bhutan to India i. Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding passports of Bhutan; and iii. Bhutanese nationals/residents (including diplomats) and foreigners (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020, as amended from time to time. 5. Canada India has created an air travel arrangement with Canada. Indian carriers and Air Canada are now permitted to operate services between India and Canada and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Canada i. Stranded Canadian nationals/residents and foreigners with valid Canadian visas eligible to enter Canada; ii. Indian nationals with valid visas are eligible to enter Canada. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Canada before the issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities; Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping - From Canada to India i. Stranded Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding Canadian passports; and iii. Foreigners (including diplomats), who are eligible to enter India as per Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 6. Ethiopia Indian and Ethiopian carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Ethiopia and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Ethiopia i. Stranded nationals/residents of Ethiopia, foreign nationals destined for Africa and transiting through Ethiopia or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in Africa and holding a valid visa for the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/ Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/ Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined to countries of Africa only. - From Ethiopia to India i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in Africa) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from countries of Africa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Ethiopia should be destined for African countries only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Ethiopia to India. 7. France Indian and French carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and France and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to France i. Stranded nationals/residents of France, foreign nationals destined for EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and transiting through France or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. - From France to India i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and PIO cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Passengers travelling on flights from India to France should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from France to India. 8. Germany Indian and German carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Germany and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Germany i. Stranded nationals/residents of Germany, foreign nationals destined for EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and transiting through Germany or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. - From Germany to India i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and PIO cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Germany should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Germany to India. 9. Iraq Indian and Iraqi carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Iraq and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Iraq i. Nationals/residents of Iraq; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for Iraq and holding a valid visa for Iraq. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian / Nepalese /Bhutanese nationals to enter Iraq with the particular visa category before issue of ticket / boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger. - From Iraq to India i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in Iraq; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. All Iraqi nationals (including diplomats) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Iraq should be destined for Iraq only. Similarly, only passengers originating from Iraq should be allowed to travel on flights from Iraq to India. 10. Japan Indian and Japanese carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Japan and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Japan i. Stranded nationals/residents of Japan and foreign nationals holding valid Japanese visas subject to the border measures and travel restrictions imposed by the government of Japan at the time of travel; and ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid visa from Japan subject to the border measures and travel restrictions imposed by the government of Japan at the time of travel. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Japan with the particular visa category before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Japan to India i. Stranded Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding passports of Japan; and iii. Foreigners (including diplomats), holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 11. Kenya Indian and Kenyan carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Kenya and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Kenya i. Nationals/residents of any country in Africa; and ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in Africa and holding a valid visa for the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian / Nepalese /Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before issuing of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger. - From Kenya to India i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. All African nationals (including diplomats) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Kenya should be destined for African countries only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Kenya to India. 12. Kuwait Indian and Kuwaiti carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and Kuwait and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Kuwait: i. Nationals of Kuwait; and ii. Any Indian national eligible to travel to Kuwait and destined for Kuwait only. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure the Indian nationals are eligible to enter Kuwait before issuing of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Kuwait to India: i. Indian nationals stranded in Kuwait; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders; and iii. Nationals of Kuwait intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers carried from India to Kuwait will comprise passengers destined for Kuwait only. Similarly, only passengers originating from Kuwait should be allowed to travel on flights from Kuwait to India. 13. Maldives Indian and Maldivian carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Maldives and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Maldives: i. Maldivian nationals/residents and foreign nationals holding valid Maldivian visas, if required; ii. Any Indian national. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Maldives before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Maldives to India: i. Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding Maldivian passports, and iii. Foreigners (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 14. Nepal Air India and Nepal Airlines are now permitted to operate flights between Delhi and Kathmandu and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Nepal: i. Indian nationals and nationals of Nepal. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Nepal before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger; ii. Third-country nationals (including diplomats) holding valid visa/entry permit for Nepal, if required. - From Nepal to India: i. Indian nationals and nationals of Nepal; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. All third-country nationals (including diplomats) intending to travel to India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Only such passengers who are destined for Nepal are allowed to travel on flights from India to Nepal. Similarly, only passengers originating in Nepal are allowed to travel on flights from Nepal to India. 15. Netherlands Indian and Dutch carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Netherlands and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Netherlands: i. Stranded nationals/residents of Netherlands, foreign nationals destined for EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and transiting through Netherlands or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. - From Netherlands to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and PIO cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Passengers travelling on flights from India to the Netherlands should be destined for countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in the EU/Schengen area, South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from the Netherlands to India. 16. Nigeria Indian and Nigerian carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Nigeria and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Nigeria: i. Stranded Nigerian nationals/residents, foreign nationals destined for Africa and transiting through Nigeria or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid Nigerian visa and destined for any country in Africa. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities; Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. - From Nigeria to India: i. Indian nationals stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding Nigerian passports; iii. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding passports issued by any country in Africa who are eligible to enter India as per MHA guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time; and iv. Foreigners (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 17. Oman Indian and Omani carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Oman and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Oman: i. Nationals/residents of Oman; ii. Any Indian national holding a valid residency permit of Oman and destined for Oman only. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure the Indian nationals are eligible to enter Oman before issuing of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger. - From Oman to India: i. Indian nationals stranded in Oman; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding passports of Oman; iii. Nationals of Oman (including diplomats) holding valid visas issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 18. Qatar Indian carriers and Qatar Airways are now permitted to operate flights between India and Qatar and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Qatar: i. Qatari nationals; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for Qatar or any country in South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Foreign nationals destined for South America or Africa only and transiting through Qatar. - From Qatar to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in Qatar or in any country in South America or Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. Qatari nationals and foreign nationals (from any country in South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Qatar should be destined for Qatar or any country in South America or Africa only. Similarly, only passengers originating from Qatar or any country in South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Qatar to India 19. Russia Indian and Russian carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Russia and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Russia: i. Stranded nationals/residents of Russia; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for and holding a valid visa of Russia. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/ Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined for Russia only. - From Russia to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in Russia; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin(PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. Russian nationals intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from Russia. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Russia should be destined for Russia only. Similarly, only passengers originating from Russia should be allowed to travel on flights from Russia to India. 20. Rwanda Indian carriers and carriers of Rwanda are now permitted to operate flights between India and Rwanda and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Rwanda: i. Stranded nationals/residents of Rwanda, foreign nationals destined for Africa and transiting through Rwanda or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in Africa and holding a valid visa for the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/ Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/ Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined to countries of Africa only. - From Rwanda to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in Africa) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from countries of Africa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Rwanda should be destined for African countries only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Rwanda to India. 21. Seychelles Indian carriers and carriers of Seychelles are now permitted to operate flights between India and Seychelles and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Seychelles: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Persons of Indian Origin cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in Africa) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from countries in Africa. - From Seychelles to India: i. Stranded nationals/residents of Seychelles, foreign nationals destined for Africa and transiting through Seychelles, or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined for Africa only. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Seychelles should be destined for African countries only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Seychelles to India. 22. Sri Lanka Indian and Sri Lankan carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Sri Lanka and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Sri Lanka: Following categories of Indian nationals. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter Sri Lanka before issuing of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian passenger. i. Indian businessmen on a Business visa. ii. Indian healthcare professionals, health researchers, engineers and technicians for technical work at Sri Lanka health sector facilities, including laboratories and factories. iii. Indian engineering, managerial, design or other specialists travelling to Sri Lanka on behalf of Indian business entities located in Sri Lanka. iv. Indian technical specialists and engineers travelling for installation, repair and maintenance of Indian-origin machinery and equipment facilities in Sri Lanka, on the invitation of a registered Sri Lankan business entity. v. Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka for leisure/pleasure purposes. vi. Nationals / residents of Sri Lanka. - From Sri Lanka to India: i. Indian nationals and nationals of Nepal or Bhutan; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin cardholders holding passports of any country; iii. Nationals/residents of Sri Lanka (including diplomats) and foreigners (including diplomats) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. 23. Tanzania Indian and Tanzanian carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Tanzania and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Tanzania: i. Stranded nationals/residents of Tanzania, foreign nationals destined for Africa and transiting through Tanzania or spouses of these persons, whether accompany ignore otherwise; ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for any country in Africa and holding a valid visa for the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian / Nepalese /Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before the issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities and Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping. Seamen should be destined to countries of Africa only. - From Tanzania to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in any country in Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country, and iii. All foreign nationals (from any country in Africa) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa)except those on Tourist Visa; and iv. Seamen from countries of Africa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Tanzania should be destined for African countries only. Similarly, only passengers originating from countries in Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Tanzania to India. 24. Ukraine Indian and Ukrainian carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and Ukraine and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Ukraine: i. Nationals/residents of CIS countries (excluding Russia); ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for and holding a valid visa for CIS countries (excluding Russia). It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian / Nepalese /Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before issuing of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/ Bhutanese passenger. - From Ukraine to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan in CIS countries (excluding Russia); ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. Nationals of CIS countries excluding Russia (but including diplomatic and service/ official passport holders) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Ukraine should be destined for CIS countries (excluding Russia) only. Similarly, only passengers originating from CIS countries (excluding Russia) should be allowed to travel on flights from Ukraine to India. 25. United Arab Emirates (UAE) Indian and UAE carriers are now permitted to operate flights between India and UAE and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to UAE: i. UAE nationals. ii. ICA approved UAE residents. iii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for UAE or any country in South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country before issuing of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/Bhutanese passenger. - From UAE to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in UAE or in any country in South America or Africa; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. UAE nationals and foreign nationals (from any country in South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to UAE should be destined for UAE or any country in South America or Africa only. Similarly, only passengers originating from UAE or any country in South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from UAE to India. 26. United Kingdom (UK) Indian and UK carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and UK and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to UK i. Stranded UK nationals/residents, foreign nationals transiting through UK or spouses of these persons, whether accompanying or otherwise; ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid UK visa and destined for UK only. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter UK with the particular visa category before the issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities; Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping - From UK to India i. Stranded Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders holding UK passports; and iii. Foreigners (including diplomats), who are eligible to enter India as per Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines dated 30.06.2020 as amended from time to time. 27. United States of America (USA) Indian and US carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and USA and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to USA i. US citizens, legal permanent residents, and foreign nationals holding valid US visas; ii. Any Indian national holding any type of valid US visa. It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian nationals to enter the USA with the particular visa category before the issue of ticket/ boarding pass to the Indian passenger; and iii. Seamen of foreign nationalities; Seamen holding Indian passports would be allowed subject to clearance from the Ministry of Shipping - From USA to India i. Stranded Indian nationals; ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. Foreign nationals (including diplomats) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on a Tourist visa. 28. Uzbekistan Indian carriers and carriers of Uzbekistan are now permitted to operate flights between India and Uzbekistan and carry the following categories of persons on such flights: - From India to Uzbekistan i. Nationals/residents of CIS countries (excluding Russia); ii. Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for and holding a valid visa for CIS countries (excluding Russia). It would be for the airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction for Indian / Nepalese /Bhutanese nationals to enter the destination country with the particular visa category before issue of ticket/boarding pass to the Indian/Nepalese/ Bhutanese passenger. - From Uzbekistan to India: i. Indian nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan in CIS countries (excluding Russia); ii. All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and iii. Nationals of CIS countries excluding Russia (but including diplomatic and service/ official passport holders) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on the appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist Visa. Passengers travelling on flights from India to Uzbekistan should be destined for CIS countries (excluding Russia) only. Similarly, only passengers originating from CIS countries (excluding Russia) should be allowed to travel on flights from Uzbekistan to India. Moreover, Passengers are advised to confirm with the embassy of the country they are planning to travel to whether they are allowed to visit or not.

Read more