India has introduced revised guidelines for international air passengers arriving from identified high-risk countries, including China, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Japan. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced the mandatory requirement for pre-departure RT-PCR testing for passengers on all international flights from these nations.
Pre-Departure Testing Mandate
According to the revised guidelines, passengers must undergo a pre-departure RT-PCR test within 72 hours before undertaking their journey. This requirement applies to all passengers, including those transiting through the high-risk countries, regardless of their originating location before arriving at any Indian airport.
Operational Procedures
To facilitate compliance with the new regulations, the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Air Suvidha portal will be made operational for passengers traveling from these countries. Passengers must submit negative RT-PCR test reports and a self-declaration form via the Air Suvidha portal before boarding their flights to India.
Continued Safety Measures
The existing practice of post-arrival random testing of 2% of travelers, irrespective of the port of departure, will continue to ensure comprehensive monitoring and control of Covid-19 transmission.
Evolving Trajectory and Safety Measures
The decision to revise the guidelines comes in response to the evolving trajectory of Covid-19 cases in certain countries, particularly China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Japan. These precautionary measures aim to mitigate the risk of imported infections and safeguard public health within India.
Air Suvidha Portal
Air Suvidha, launched in August 2020, serves as a digital platform developed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to enhance the safety and convenience of travelers and Indian citizens. Through this portal, passengers traveling to India can provide essential travel details, RT-PCR test reports, and vaccination status via a self-declaration form.
Ensuring Safe Passage
Collaborative efforts between the Ministries of Civil Aviation and Health and Family Welfare have been instrumental in implementing contactless self-declaration procedures at the Air Suvidha Portal. These measures aim to streamline international travel procedures while prioritizing public health and safety amidst the ongoing pandemic.
Ben Müller
Clara Cardoso
