I have to hand it out to this current set of bureaucracy and government for really taking a good look at things and improving them bit by bit for Indians as well as non-Indians. First came the online visa for people from around the world (now live for over 150 countries I believe). Then, a few things such as arrival cards and baggage tags knocked off. Oh, and the customs form also went away.
Now, the next move. Remember, Indians still have to fill up a departure card before leaving the country. Foreigners have to fill an arrival card on arriving in the country. This is to keep track of the whereabouts just in case something happens. But now, the departure card goes away. As per a new order from the Union Home Ministry:
It has been decided to discontinue the practice of filling up of the departure card by Indians at all international airports with effect from July 1, 2017.
And why not. All the information required is usually available on the ticket or the passport of the passenger.
Now, like I’ve thought and wished before. I am hoping there will be biometric kiosks installed soon which at least allow Indians to leave the country with a chip card or passport, hence further reducing the long queues at airports.
Bottomline
I’m glad we are living in the age where all these old practices are going away. Next on my wishlist, e-passports and electronic entry and exit for Indians please.
I hated having to beg for a pen. I’m so happy now!
I am even happier, no longer random bums can try to borrow my Montblanc 😉
That’s an awesome move! I hate having to fill out landing and departure cards when they already have the information. I wish they would implement an Indian version Global Entry – that saves me 30 minutes or more every time I go to the States.
These plans were already under consideration and in the works before the current government was formed in India.
Ambika Soni had put together a list of items to do pretty much all of this and it was making its way into the bureaucracy.
But finally this stuff is getting more and more into live play for more people. 🙂
@GUWonder, maybe you are right. But the fame comes to the one who is acting on it all, and it all started 2014 onwards. So…
Good move. Thanks for reporting. Will be flying out in June 29 and click a picture of departure card 🙂