Question : Travellers from India

(a) whether travellers from India are not allowed in most parts of the developed countries on whimsical grounds relating to the pandemic which is now threatening to enter a third wave and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether even if travellers from India are declared negative both on departure from India and arrival overseas, the immigration travel laws of most of the developed countries bar Indian travellers on flimsy grounds and if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether such treatment to Indians tantamount to enforcing ‘Apartheid’ policy reminiscent of the colonial days that has forced more than 10 lakhs overseas Indian workers held up in India who are denied reentry overseas on valid work visas; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN]

(a) to (d) Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, normal international travel services remain suspended. International air travel to and from India is taking place through special arrangements, including air bubbles and the Vande Bharat Mission. The protocol for international travel varies from country to country and is based on their evolving pandemic situation. India has also instituted, since March 2020, certain restrictions on travellers entering India.

Some countries have placed a ban on the entry of Indian nationals. Even these countries have made provisions for exemption from the ban for certain categories. However, currently, most countries do not have restrictions imposed on travel of Indian nationals but require a negative COVID-19 report, along with compliance with other country-specific COVID protocols.

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