India Introduces Visa-on-Arrival for Japan, South Korea, UAE Nationals
Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced that nationals from Japan, South Korea, and UAE can now avail Visa-on-Arrival for tourism, business, conference, and medical purposes, allowing a stay of up to 60 days with double entry. This facility is available at six designated airports across India.
The Ministry has also expanded the e-Visa facility with Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to nationals of 167 countries, permitting entry through 30 international airports and six major seaports.
To enhance tourist safety, 15 State Governments and Union Territory Administrations have deployed tourist police. A 24×7 Multi-Lingual Tourist Info-Helpline is also available toll-free at 1800111363 or short code 1363, offering guidance in 12 languages.
The Swadesh Darshan scheme, launched in 2014-15, aims to develop tourism infrastructure across India. Financial assistance is provided to States, UT Administrations, and Central Agencies. The scheme has been revamped as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to promote sustainable and responsible tourism.
The PRASHAD scheme focuses on the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations. Under this scheme, Rs 1621.14 crore have been sanctioned, with Rs 1024.18 crore already released.
Doubts Revealed
Visa-on-Arrival -: Visa-on-Arrival means that people from certain countries can get their visa when they arrive in India, instead of applying for it before they travel.
Union Minister for Tourism and Culture -: The Union Minister for Tourism and Culture is a person in the Indian government who is responsible for looking after tourism and cultural activities in the country.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat -: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is a politician in India who is currently serving as the Union Minister for Tourism and Culture.
Japan, South Korea, UAE -: Japan, South Korea, and UAE are countries in Asia. Japan is known for its technology and culture, South Korea for its pop culture and technology, and UAE for its modern cities like Dubai.
e-Visa -: An e-Visa is an electronic visa that you can apply for online. It makes the process of getting a visa easier and faster.
Swadesh Darshan scheme -: The Swadesh Darshan scheme is a program by the Indian government to develop tourist spots in India and make them more attractive to visitors.
PRASHAD scheme -: The PRASHAD scheme is another program by the Indian government aimed at improving facilities at pilgrimage sites to make them better for visitors.
