Standard operating procedure for stranded Indians

The Union home ministry on Sunday announced resumption of international flights and opening of land borders for Indian nationals stranded abroad, and for those wishing to travel abroad from India.

“Indian nationals who had travelled to different countries before the lockdown … are stranded,” the MHA said. “Due to their prolonged stay abroad, they are facing distress and are desirous of returning to India urgently. Apart from the above cases, there are other Indians who need to visit India due to medical emergencies or death of a family member.”

The home ministry asked such persons to register themselves with Indian missions abroad and provide necessary details as prescribed by the external affairs ministry. The cost of travel will be borne by such travellers.

“Only those crew and staff who test Covid-19 negative will be allowed to operate these flights and ships,” it added.

“All travellers will also be required to give an undertaking that they are making the journey at their own risk. Passengers arriving through the land borders will also have to undergo the same protocol as above, and only those who are asymptomatic will be enabled to cross the border into India,” the MHA guidelines said.

People stranded in India who wish to travel abroad will be required to apply to the civil aviation ministry. “Only those persons shall be allowed to travel to the destination countries who are citizens of that country; who hold visa of at least one year duration of that country; and green card or OCl card holders. In cases of medical emergency or death in the family, Indian nationals holding six-month visa can be allowed,” the MHA said.