CHICAGO: The news of ending of red tapism in issuance of visa for traveling to India from 43 countries has really gladdened the heart of many but a clarification from the Indian consulate has dampened a bit of that enthusiasm
Travelers from 43 nations, including Germany, Japan, Russia and America, will now be able to receive visas upon arrival. There are, unfortunately, some restrictions:
” You have to apply online four days in advance, pay a $60 fee, and upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport.
” It only works for the international airports in nine cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Goa.
” It is valid for 30 days, and you can only get two per year.
The Narendra Modi government has referred to the changes as being for a “tourist visa”. But the announcement makes clear the visa can be used for a “casual business visit”, and many readers may decide that’s good enough for them.
The new policy is far from perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction and one that travelers should applaud, says Madhu Patel, president NRI Press Club. It will convey a clear message that India is serious about making travel to the country easy, said an officer at the Indian Consulate in Chicago.
“This is an encouraging attitude. On the part of the concerned in New Delhi but If the Modi government can pull off more changes along these lines, travelers-and the Indian economy-should benefit greatly,” said David Potosi, an American businessman traveling to India.
Suresh Shah
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