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Going on a road trip is often synonymous with adventure, freedom, and discovery. While India offers a plethora of scenic routes and diverse landscapes, sometimes the wanderlust extends beyond borders. <keyword id="15530433" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="International-road-trips-from-India" source="Orion">International road trips from India</keyword> open up a world of possibilities, allowing travellers to witness different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. From neighbouring countries reachable by road to far-flung destinations accessible via overland routes, here's a detailed guide to <keyword id="21293965" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="international-road-trips" source="keywords">international road trips</keyword> you can take from India. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey" comment="subhead" text="Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey">Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110247304" hostid="261" sizebytes="1754543" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Traverse the winding roads of the Himalayas on a road trip from India to Nepal.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Varies depending on the starting point. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. Nepal, home to the majestic Himalayas, offers an exhilarating road trip experience. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene lakes of Pokhara, every mile is a revelation. The journey typically begins from the bordering Indian states of Uttar Pradesh or Bihar. The scenic drive through the Terai plains gradually ascends into the foothills of the Himalayas, providing breathtaking views of terraced fields, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon" comment="subhead" text="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon">Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110247310" hostid="261" sizebytes="2128757" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover the mystical charm of Bhutan on an unforgettable road journey from India.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 500-700 km from bordering Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a permit to enter Bhutan. A kingdom situated in the Eastern Himalayas. The journey offers a blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Starting from Indian states like West Bengal or Assam, travellers cross the border into Bhutan, where pristine landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional Bhutanese architecture await. The winding roads offer panoramic views of verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and Himalayan peaks, providing a soul-stirring experience. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled" comment="subhead" text="Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled">Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110247330" hostid="261" sizebytes="1615519" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Go on an offbeat adventure to Myanmar from India&amp;#39;s northeastern states.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 1,400-1,800 km from northeastern Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Myanmar. Embarking on a road trip to Myanmar from northeastern India is an offbeat yet rewarding journey. Travellers can start from states like Manipur or Mizoram, traversing through lush landscapes and remote villages. The route passes through the Moreh-Tamu border crossing, offering a glimpse into Myanmar's rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and bustling markets. From the ancient city of Mandalay to the serene shores of Inle Lake, each stop along the way unveils a new facet of Myanmar's beauty. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Thailand: Land of Smiles" comment="subhead" text="Thailand: Land of Smiles">Thailand: Land of Smiles</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110247345" hostid="261" sizebytes="1953038" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Experience the Land of Smiles on a road trip from India to Thailand&amp;#39;s vibrant landscapes.&amp;quot;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 3,000-3,500 km from northeastern Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Thailand. Take on an epic road trip from India to Thailand, traversing through diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures. The journey begins from northeastern states like Assam or Manipur, with travellers crossing into Myanmar before entering Thailand. The route passes through scenic regions of northern Thailand, including the cultural hub of Chiang Mai and the historic city of Ayutthaya. From bustling markets to tranquil beaches, Thailand offers a sensory overload of experiences for road trippers. Also read - <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition" comment="subhead" text="The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition">The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110247353" hostid="261" sizebytes="1773243" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore the historic Silk Route, connecting civilizations from India to Europe.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Varies depending on the route taken. Visa Requirement: Multiple visas are required depending on the countries traversed. For the adventurous at heart, the Silk Route presents an opportunity to go on a historic expedition spanning multiple countries. Starting from India's northeastern states, travellers can follow the ancient trade route that once connected Asia to Europe. The journey passes through countries like Myanmar, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and beyond, offering a glimpse into diverse cultures, landscapes, and civilisations along the way. From the rugged terrain of the Pamir Mountains to the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, the Silk Route road trip is a voyage through time. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="London: The Transcontinental Adventure" comment="subhead" text="London: The Transcontinental Adventure">London: The Transcontinental Adventure</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110247373" hostid="261" sizebytes="1717988" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Dream of distant horizons as you plan a transcontinental road trip from India to London.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Visa Requirements: Travellers going on a road trip to London from India will require a Schengen visa or a UK visa, depending on the route chosen and the countries traversed. Distance from India: Approx.11,000 to 12,000 kilometres Taking on a road trip from India to London is a transcontinental odyssey that captivates the imagination of intrepid explorers. While the allure of traversing diverse landscapes is undeniable, it necessitates meticulous planning, including obtaining visas and permits. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom" comment="subhead" text="China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom">China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110247380" hostid="261" sizebytes="1813636" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Unravel the mysteries of the Middle Kingdom on a road journey to China from India.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Visa Requirements: Travellers embarking on a road trip to China from India will require a Chinese tourist visa. Distance from India: The distance from India to China via road varies depending on the chosen route and starting point. While direct road access between India and China is not feasible due to geographical and political constraints, overland routes through neighbouring countries offer adventurous travellers a glimpse into China's diverse landscapes and ancient civilisations. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Preparation and Tips:" comment="subhead" text="Preparation and Tips:">Preparation and Tips:</cmsannotation> <ul><li>Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for long-distance travel.</li><li>Obtain necessary permits and visas well in advance.</li><li>Research border crossing procedures and entry requirements for each country.</li><li>Pack essentials such as navigation devices, spare tyres, first-aid kits, and sufficient supplies.</li><li>Familiarise yourself with local traffic rules, customs, and driving conditions.</li><li>Embrace spontaneity but plan your route and accommodations in advance.</li><li>Respect local cultures, traditions, and environments along the way.</li></ul>Going on an international road trip from India is not just about reaching a destination; it's about immersing yourself in the journey, forging connections, and creating memories that last a lifetime. So, fuel up your adventurous spirit, buckle up, and hit the road to explore the world beyond borders. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. Is it safe to go on an international road trip from India? While international <keyword id="1600077" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Road-trips" source="Orion">road trips</keyword> offer incredible experiences, safety should always be a priority. Research your route thoroughly, including potential risks, road conditions, and travel advisories. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with necessary safety features. Additionally, carry essential documents, emergency supplies, and travel insurance for added security. 2. What documents do I need for an international road trip from India? The required documents vary depending on the destination(s) you plan to visit. Typically, you'll need a valid passport, appropriate visas or permits for each country you'll be crossing, vehicle registration, international driving permit (IDP), and vehicle insurance. Research and obtain all necessary paperwork well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. 3. How do I plan accommodations for an international road trip? Planning accommodations for an international road trip involves researching and booking hotels, guesthouses, or campsites along your route. Utilise online booking platforms or travel apps to find accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and availability, especially during peak travel seasons. 4. What should I pack for an international road trip from India? Packing essentials for an international road trip includes clothing suitable for varied climates, travel documents, personal hygiene items, medications, first-aid kit, navigation devices (maps or GPS), roadside emergency kit (spare tyre, jumper cables, flashlight, etc.), snacks, water, and entertainment (books, music, etc.). Tailor your packing list based on the duration of your trip and the destinations you'll be visiting. 5. How do I navigate border crossings during an international road trip? Navigating border crossings requires careful planning and adherence to the immigration and customs regulations of each country you'll be entering. Research border crossing procedures, opening hours, required documents, and any applicable fees or permits. Arrive prepared with all necessary paperwork, maintain patience during border formalities, and be respectful of local authorities. Stay informed about any recent changes or restrictions that may affect your journey. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/10-ultimate-road-trip-routes-in-india/articleshow/109620234.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 Ultimate road trip routes in India for 2024</a>

Exploring the world on wheels: International road trips from India

<ul><li>As per The Henley Passport Index, India is up seven positions from 90th in October 2021 to 83rd in January 2022.</li><li>The country now has access to two more countries without a prior visa as compared to last year.</li><li>These are the <keyword id="8572074" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="most-powerful-passports-in-the-world" source="Orion">most powerful passports in the world</keyword>.</li></ul>India is 83rd on The Henley Passport Index, up seven positions since October 2021. The country now has access to 60 countries without a prior visa. The ranking is based on International Air Transport Authority (IATA) data on how easy it is for citizens from different countries to move around. These are the <keyword id="8011256" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="most-powerful-passports" source="Orion">most powerful passports</keyword> in the world — 1. Japan and Singapore Both Japan and Singapore secured the first rank again in the list. The passport holders from these countries can travel visa free to 192 countries. 2. Germany and South Korea Grabbing the second spot yet again, Germany and South Korea passport holders can travel to 190 countries without a prior visa. 3. Finland, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain These countries combinely share the third rank of the list. Citizens of these countries can travel visa-free to 189 countries. 4. Austria, Denmark, France and Netherlands France and Netherlands climb up by one spot to join Austria and Denmark at number 4, with access to 188 countries without a prior visa. 5. Ireland and Portugal Swedish and Portuguese can travel to 187 countries without any prior visa. 6. Belgium, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States The sixth rank is shared by these six countries in the list. Citizens of these countries can travel to 186 countries without any prior visa. 7. Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Greece and Malta Australia and Canada climb one position joining the countries at the seventh position. People of these five countries can travel to 185 countries without a prior visa. 8. Hungary and Poland Hungary climbs two positions, whereas Poland rises by three spots to seventh rank. People from these two countries have access to 184 countries without a prior visa. 9. Lithuania and Slovakia Citizens of Lithuania and Slovakia have the right to travel to 182 countries without a prior visa. 10. Estonia, Latvia and Slovenia Estonia, Latvia and Slovakia shared the tenth ranking in the list of powerful passport countries. Passport holders of these countries can enjoy no visa travel to 181 countries. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/booster-doses-of-current-vaccines-may-not-be-enough/articleshow/88845700.cms">Booster doses of current vaccines may not be enough to fight emerging COVID-19 variants, says WHO</a>

RANKED: The most powerful passports in the world

<ul><li> According to the new scheme announced this Tuesday, Indian citizens can submit their passport application to any Regional Passport Office (RPO), Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) near them. </li><li>The application process has been made even more convenient with the launch of an app to facilitate the same. </li><li>At least one PSK or POPSK will be set up in all the 543 Lok Sabha constituencies to make the process even more convenient. </li></ul>Applying for a passport has become a lot easier now. External Affairs Minister <keyword id="6355111" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sushma-Swaraj">Sushma Swaraj</keyword> announced a <a href="https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/now-apply-for-passport-from-anywhere-in-india-mea/article24268619.ece?homepage=true">new scheme</a> this Tuesday that lets an Indian citizen apply for a passport anywhere in the country irrespective of where his/her residence is. Earlier, the applicant needed to go to the Regional Passport Office (RPO) under whose jurisdiction the area of the applicant’s residence fell. However, now the citizens can submit the application to any the Regional Passport Office (RPO), Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) near them. If police verification is needed for any application, it will be conducted at the residential address provided on the <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/now-apply-for-passport-from-anywhere-in-india-centre/articleshow/64752466.cms">application </a>form. The passport, once made, will also be printed and dispatched to the same address. The scheme is expected to greatly benefit citizens who have temporarily migrated, relocated or transferred away from home. The application process has been made even more convenient with the launch of an app. The app named<a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/heres-how-you-can-now-get-a-passport-without-any-hassles/articleshow/64757695.cms"> mPassport Seva App</a> helps do away with computers and printers that was earlier needed for the process. The app is available on both Android and iOS platforms. It lets you log in as a new user or an existing user and supports services like applying, paying and scheduling appointments. Applying for required documents like, a police clearance certificate, will also be a click away. You can also track the status of your passport application using just your date of birth and file number. Once the passport is dispatched, you can also track its delivery through the app. Swaraj choose the occasion of the <keyword id="6657307" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sixth-Passport-Seva-Divas">Sixth Passport Seva Divas</keyword> to announce the schemes, after which she talked about the developments that had already taken place in the process of passport application. She said that there were <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/now-apply-for-passport-from-anywhere-in-india-centre/articleshow/64752466.cms">77 PSKs</a> made available in 48 years, while 231 more were added in the last 48 months. These add up to make 307 PSKs at present, in <keyword id="3658" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="India">India</keyword>. Speaking at the event, Swaraj further announced that since these are still not enough, at least one PSK or POPSK will be set up in all the 543 Lok Sabha constituencies to make the process even more convenient. Recalling all the developments made over her time, the minister called it a “<a href="https://www.businesstoday.in/current/economy-politics/big-relief-now-apply-for-passport-from-anywhere-in-india/story/279605.html">passport revolution</a>” as she pointed out that unnecessary requirements for a passport including the marriage certificate, had been scrapped during her tenure.

Applying for a passport in India is now just a click away

<ul><li><keyword id="6354977" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Supreme-Court">Supreme Court</keyword> issues announcement.</li><li>Aadhaar is not necessary for a new <keyword id="6427652" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="sim">SIM</keyword> connection.</li><li>Other documents are also valid for KYC (know-your-customer).</li></ul> The uncertainty comes to an end with the Supreme Court finally <a href="http://www.bgr.in/news/aadhaar-verification-mobile-sim-card-not-mandatory-government-india-dot-clarifies/" data-type="tilCustomLink">clarifying</a> that users don’t need an <keyword id="155319" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Aadhar">Aadhar</keyword> card, the 12-digit unique identification number issued by the <keyword id="86474" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Unique-Identification-Authority-of-India">Unique Identification Authority of India</keyword> (<keyword id="6355252" type="DEFINITION" weightage="20" keywordseo="uidai">UIDAI</keyword>), in order to attain a new mobile SIM nationwide. The announcement says that driving licences, passports and voter ID cards are also perfectly acceptable forms of identification for getting a SIM connection. The telecom operators haven’t confirmed their compliance but, the government is taking the issue seriously nonetheless. During the past few months, due to the lack of clarification, several complaints had been reported by consumers not being able to get a new connection due to the lack of an <keyword id="6356006" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Aadhaar-card">Aadhaar card</keyword>. The issue of the Aadhar card being mandatory was not only an obstacle for Indians, but also for NRIs and foreigners who were traversing through the country. Arun Sundararajan, Telecom secretary, explained that the reason they’ve made this announcement is to ensure that consumers aren’t inconvenienced any further. She added, “The ministry has issued instructions to all telecom companies, asking not to deny a SIM card to any individual who does not have an Aadhaar number. We have to ask them to accept other forms of KYC (know-your-customer) documents, and continue to issue SIM cards.” This development comes after the Supreme Court extended the deadline on their final verdict from March 31 indefinitely. Their final standing on the matter is still pending and they haven’t issued any tentative plans for an announcement.

Supreme Court clarifies that Aadhar isn’t mandatory for a new SIM connection

The patent regime in India is all set to be streamlined, since the government would now offer an option of 'Tatkal' window, so that patent applications can be cleared at the earliest. 
 
Not only this, the government is also planning to significantly cut down the time period for which patents are granted, to two and a half years immediately and one and a half years by March 2018. As of now, it ranges from 5 to 7 years. 
 
The modified patent rules would allow entities to choose the fast clearance route so that they can get patents earlier in return of some additional fees, in case they select India as International Search Authority or International Preliminary Examining Authorities. For this, they would have to file their applications in India first. 
 
"The move is aimed at popularising India as a patent filing hub so that more companies file applications in India," said Rajiv Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, DIPP. 
 
These benefits will only be made available to new applicants. 
 
Start-ups meeting the prescribed criteria will also be able to use the Tatkal route. While individuals and start-ups would need to pay Rs 8,000 for this, for companies this fee could be as much as Rs 60,000. 
 
<a href="https://worldpatentmarketing.net/wp-content/uploads/can-i-patent-1.jpg">Image source</a>

Like railway tickets and passports, patent applications will also get Tatkal windows for faster clearance

The United States has asked Indians to carry valid supporting documents, apart from passport, while travelling to the country. 
 
Recently, Indian students were denied entry in the US and were even deported as they had presented information to the border patrol agent which was inconsistent with their visa status. 
 
The universities in question said refusal to entry was due to tightening of visa regulations by the US after the Paris terror attacks. 
 
So, whether you are a student, businessperson or a traveller, you should have other valid documents like study plans, housing, financial support, healthcare arrangements etc. and be prepared for admission (entry to the US) interviews with US immigration officials. 
 
"Government of India continues to remain closely engaged with the US Government on this subject. We have strongly emphasised the need for the US authorities to honour the visas issued by their own Embassy/Consulates,'' said the advisory.

Travelling to the US? These are the documents you will need to carry other than passport to enter

Adoption gives one the immeasurable happiness of parenting a child. 
 
India has over 30 million orphans and when you take into account the vast number of childless couples in India longing for a child, only 2,500 children were adopted last year. 
 A survey by <keyword id="977610" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Society-For-Assisted-Reproduction">Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction</keyword> (ISAR) shows that 46% couples in the age group of 31-40 years are infertile. 
What are the problems that deprive countless children of a happy and secure life? 
 
On paper, India has all the legalities of adoption worked out with the child’s welfare paramount. Any Indian, an Indian NRI or a foreigner aged 21 years and above, who is medically fit and financially able to take care of a child, is eligible to adopt a child in India. 
 
The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act of 1956 governs adoption by India citizens who are Hindus, Sikhs, Jains or Buddhists and does not permit adoption of more than one child of the same sex. 
 
Adoption by Indian citizens who are Muslims, Christians, Parsis, Jews, Indian NRIs and foreign citizens are governed by the Guardian and Wards Act of 1890 under which the adoptive parent is only the guardian of the child till its majority at 18 years of age. 
 
NRIs and foreign adoptive parents must within a period of 2 years of guardianship complete the process of formally adopting the child under the adoption laws of their country of residence. Abandoned or abused children adopted by non Hindus come under the Juvenile Justice Act of 2000. 
 The <keyword id="6413285" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Central-Adoption-Resource-Authority">Central Adoption Resource Authority</keyword> (CARA) under the <keyword id="2816225" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ministry-of-Women-and-Child">Ministry of Women and Child</keyword> development is the nodal body for adoption of Indian children and is mandated to monitor and regulate in-country and inter-country adoptions in accordance with the provisions of the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption, 1993, ratified by <keyword id="6377129" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Government-Of-India">Government of India</keyword> in 2003. 
 
The problem with legal adoption is it takes anywhere between three to four years to complete the formalities. Over cautious and at times callous bureaucracy, burdensome legal formalities and paperwork, never ending delays all add to adoptive parent’s woes. 
 
It takes almost two years for a home check of the adoptive parents. Many prospective parents drop out fed by the weary journey that often ends in bitter disappointment. Or they turn to private adoption agencies where once again they are either taken for a ride or unable to legally become adoptive parents due to lack of papers. NRIs and foreigners are unable to get a passport that will enable them to take their child with them. 
 
Illegal trafficking has become so rampant that babies are disappearing from hospitals itself and the inflow to orphanages and adoption agencies has come down. 
 
Indian couples face much more social and familial pressure than their western counterparts. They seek to adopt children who can conform to their ethnic, religious, social and cultural milieu. Other prejudices like sex of the child colour of the child and physical attributes and health are amongst adoption deterrent factors. Unlike western countries unhealthy or disabled children are rarely adopted by Indians. 
 
Attitudes are slowly changing and several prejudices are being rooted out but ‘Adoption per se’ is not a very acceptable notion in India despite the lip service paid to it. Global preference for one’s own flesh and blood is also applicable in India. 
 
But the main obstacles are legal and bureaucratic. Appalled at the state of affairs, India’s Minister for Women and Child Development, the feisty Ms. <keyword id="42851" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Maneka-Gandhi">Maneka Gandhi</keyword> has warned of strict action against CARA for its inaction. She also said under the new act CARA would get more teeth with the power to remove SARA (State <keyword id="2816224" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Adoption-Resource-Authority">Adoption Resource Authority</keyword>), remove adoption agencies or even completely ban them. Ms. Gandhi also wanted the time factor for adoption to be brought down to four months. 
The Minister also announced the launch of ‘Foster Care scheme’ where the government will pay the foster parents the cost of parenting the foster child, a popular scheme in several countries like USA, UK, Canada, Japan etc. However in India foster care is mostly with relatives or as a pre adoption stage. 
 
Government’s active change and support and changing social values coupled with the growing infertility rate will hopefully lead to an increase in adoption in India. 
Image: thinkstock

Child Adoption: Still a long way to go in India

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has sought revocation of debt-ridden <keyword id="14678" type="PERSON" weightage="40" keywordseo="Vijay-Mallya">Vijay Mallya</keyword>’s diplomatic passport over non-cooperation in a <keyword id="6355008" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="40" keywordseo="money-laundering">money laundering</keyword> probe. 
 The ED had asked Mallya to appear before the law enforcement agency by April 9 in Rs 900 crore <keyword id="6357560" type="CITY" weightage="40" keywordseo="IDBI-Bank">IDBI bank</keyword> loan fraud case. 
 
It has written to the Ministry of External Affairs to take action under the Passport Act, 1967 and ask the Regional Passport Office (RPO) here to revoke the diplomatic passport of the beleaguered businessman as he has turned out to be "un-cooperative" with its investigators probing a criminal case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) at its zonal office in Mumbai. 
 
Apparently, Mallya left India on March 2 on a diplomatic passport issued to him by virtue of him being a sitting Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament. 
 
Under the Passport Act, when a person is issued a diplomatic passport, their regular international travel document gets deposited and when a revocation is sought for the former is sought, the latter too gets cancelled. 
 
They said once the ED request is okayed, the MEA will inform UK authorities about the same and seek for his deportation to India. 
 
Mallya had thrice failed to appear before the ED IO in Mumbai in connection with the Rs 900 crore IDBI loan fraud case which the central probe agency is investigating under PMLA. 
 
Once Mallya's Passport is revoked, ED still is left with the option to approach a competent court and get issued a non-bailable warrant against him and also ask the Interpol to issue a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against him and apprehend him anywhere across the globe. 
 
Mallya, who is facing legal proceedings for alleged default of loans worth over Rs 9,000 crore from various banks, was also directed by the Supreme Court to disclose all assets owned by him and his family in India and abroad by April 21. 
 
(Image: Indiatimes)

ED says Vijay Mallya is un-cooperative, seeks revocation of his diplomatic passport

<ul><li>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for 2022-23 in Parliament on Tuesday.</li><li>This year's budget is indexed towards startups, MSMEs, infrastructure projects, rural revival, digital payment apps, telecom growth and affordable housing.</li><li>We reached out to digital, media and creative agencies to understand how the increased focus on digitalisation, sustainability, blockchain and push to MSME can impact the ad and marketing industry.</li></ul>Be it the introduction of a Digital University to make education accessible across the country or the proposed launch of a Digital currency by the Reserve Bank of India to the government’s focus on promoting digital payments and fintech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made it is clear that digital is the way forward. The Union Budget 2022-23 aims to boost the country's digital infrastructure and enable a cashless economy. The government also announced that it will set up an Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) promotion task force to give a push to the animation and gaming industry. To facilitate the roll-out of 5G mobile services in India, FM Sitharaman said that Spectrum auctions will be conducted in 2022. This, in turn, will give impetus to Voice, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality and pave the way for the Metaverse. The Digital Rupee using blockchain will help Indians accept virtual currency and accelerate cryptocurrency exchange in India. Overall, the budget also shows a promise for Electric Vehicle brands, digital payment apps, MSMEs, gaming industry and start-ups. We reached out to digital, media and creative agencies to understand how the increased focus on digitalisation, sustainability and blockchain can impact the advertising and marketing industry. Here’s what they said: Anupriya Acharya, South Asia CEO, Publicis Groupe: The Budget is positive, growth-oriented and with reforms in the right direction. The advent of 5G is sure to transform communications – for our industry it will help creation of better AV, voice and AR/VR experiences. It will also fuel digital payments, streaming entertainment, gaming, e-commerce, tele-medicine etc which in turn will aid more Unicorns! It is also heartening to note that a special Task Force is being set up for AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic) as this will help us build the much needed capacity both for domestic as well as global markets. And then there have been no changes in income-tax slabs for people, which many consumer segments were worried about. This in turn boosts consumer sentiment. From e-passports, to battery swapping for electric vehicles, setting up of optic fiber in the remotest of villages, setting up of a digital university and skilling through an e-portal, the big push is for technology, digital infrastructure and empowerment. Narayan Devanathan, Chief Client Officer, dentsu India: Having gone through the 38-page document of the Finance Minister’s budget speech, I decided to do a search for a couple of words that I thought kept repeating throughout her speech. The words “will be” occurred 110 times in the entire speech. When I narrowed my search to the single word “will,” the number rose to 362. To me, those two words sum up the essence of what this year’s budget is and is not. What it is, is a future-focused budget, aiming at the distant vision of India@100, with a 25-year Amrit Kaal lead-up. What it is not, and what I felt was sorely needed this year of all years, is a present-focused budget. A punishing 2021 for the aam aadmi with more-than-usual expenditure on health and sustenance meant the general populace was looking for immediate relief that would place more cash in their household budgets. That did not happen. Nor was there any extraordinary investment in relieving the healthcare expenditure burden. For all the importance of farmers in upcoming poll-bound states, there was neither major sop nor stimulus given to back the importance of agriculture as a spine if not engine of the economy. Even the MSME sectors were only handed a slightly longer lease of life with the extension of the ECLGS, but there was no real move to stimulate consumption by placing more cash at consumers’ disposal, for example, extending LTA claims to restaurants (and not just accommodation). There is perhaps plenty for the industry to cheer about since it can afford to think about the future and a slightly longer term than just the here and now of survival. The stock market did cheer up even before the FM’s speech, but that only served to underscore the dichotomy between the real health of the population and the Minority of Haves. When the general population probably can’t afford to wait for the benefits of trickle-down economics to reach them in yet another trying year, the dreams and wheels of a consumer-driven economy might move slower than the industry might like, despite the many future-facing and progressive policies announced. Virat Tandon, Group CEO, MullenLowe Lintas Group: The union budget can be termed as consistent with the government's vision to reach the 5 trillion GDP mark by 2025-26. Hence, the strong focus on capex to boost infrastructure that connects and streamlines middle India and provides the engines of entrepreneurship across the length and breadth of the country. It also shows India's commitment to bring a digital first economy with the 5G rollout planned for next financial year, clarity on India's policy for cryptocurrency, data centres, EVs and our very own digital Rupee. Start-up culture will continue to flourish with the right policy framework. These investments and policies will generate jobs and go a long way in inclusive and sustainable growth for Bharat. Anurag Bansal, COO &amp; CFO, DDB Mudra Group: This Union Budget looks neutral, with no major changes in taxation. The launch of digital Rupee based on blockchain technology is a big move to bring in official cryptocurrency in India. New e-passports with embedded chips would definitely ease overseas travel. Managing the Fiscal deficit while pushing for growth and investments is a great balancing act taken on by the government. It will give a boost to capital investments and infrastructure development. Kartik Sharma - Group Chief Executive Officer – India, Omnicom Media Group: With an impetus on holistic growth, developing infrastructure and job creation across sectors, the 2022 union budget shows promise with a focus on the big picture. Reviving economic growth in the post-pandemic environment has been a focus for this government and this progressive, digital-first, and development-oriented budget reflects that. Not only does it provide a boost to the MSME, agriculture and healthcare verticals, but also signals that investing in infrastructure today will connect India better tomorrow. With an increased focus on digitization, some of the standouts for me were that the budget recognized the current gaps and opportunities within the education sector, and is advancing towards uplifting India with the creation of a digital ecosystem - one that is focused on upskilling and creating more employment; aligned with the dynamic needs of today. It also aims to further strengthen communications in the rural sector and build upon the overall financialization of India. Furthermore, while the rollout of a 5G ecosystem will improve the quality of services, the launch of digital money, supported by blockchain, signals an increasing focus on transparency. With consistency in strategic direction and focus on propelling the MSME and start-up ecosystem, this is a welcoming budget for new-age businesses and a hopeful one that will ultimately lead to a boost in the A&amp;M industry as well. We're at the cusp of the next stage of India's digital revolution and although certain factors like data privacy still remain an area to be delved deeper into, as infrastructure and banking penetrate further into rural India, we’re looking hopeful and strong to transform into a forward-leaning digital economy of tomorrow.” Deepak Mittal, CEO and Co-Founder, TO THE NEW: The government's unprecedented commitment to technology innovation and adoption in this union budget is highly encouraging. Breakthrough developments and futuristic technology such as the introduction of digital currency, the rollout of 5G within FY22-23, and e-passports using embedded chips are exciting for the country's future. Among the measures announced, the budget highlights special incentives to startups and the launch of a progressive, new portal encouraging a digital ecosystem for skilling and upskilling. These initiatives will serve as a successful catalyst for the country's economic growth. Atul Shrivastava, Group CEO &amp; Executive Director at Laqshya Media Group: The union Budget underlined the government’s focus on long-term growth. As India’s economic growth is estimated to be 9.2% in the upcoming financial year so it would be good for all the industry and with overall growth, we are sure advertising &amp; media will also show remarkable growth which was low due to the pandemic in the last couple of years. As announced the National Highways to be expanded by 25,000 km under PM Gati Shakti mission. Highways are adding a new dimension to the growth of the OOH Industry as advertising on the Highways is emerging as very strong choice for brand building for many categories. Prasad Shejale, Founder and CEO, Logicserve Digital: The FM has announced a very progressive budget with an intention to widen India's horizons and outlook in the next five years, leveraging emerging technologies. The Government has addressed some urgent priorities underpinning the digital sector, including the launch of digital currency, API-based skill credentials, digital learning channels, digitization of manual processes, etc. On the digital connectivity front, the 5G spectrum auctions will finally make the dream of a tech-savvy India a reality, further boosting the country's digital infrastructure. Additionally, the launch of a design-led manufacturing scheme for the 5G ecosystem as part of the PLI scheme will ensure affordable broadband and mobile communication even in far-flung areas. The availability of high-speed internet connectivity in urban as well as rural areas will encourage marketers to experiment with blockchain, AR, VR. On the skilling front, initiatives like establishing a digital university will provide an opportunity for youth to learn new skills from the comfort of their homes. The creation of a new task force to build domestic capacity in the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic (AVGC) sector is commendable. The overall budget is future tech-enabled and balanced. Ahmed Aftab Naqvi, Global CEO &amp; Co-founder, GOZOOP Group: While there will always be hope for more and better, the continued push towards digital, fintech and the boost for start-up ecosystem with the extension of tax benefits till March 2023 along with capping the surcharge at 15% irrespective of the amount of long term capital gains, will fuel the fire of entrepreneurship in our nation. Varun Duggirala, Entrepreneur, Co-founder of The Glitch, Author, Content Creator and a Podcaster: The twin announcements of the digital rupee and the taxation on ‘virtual digital assets’ is clearly a focused drive from the government to regulate the crypto space. What needs to be seen is how this plays out because regulating a decentralized space is a paradox in itself. Another point that stood out for me was the national mental health program. More than anything else it signifies the normalizing of mental health as a legitimate area of focus for us as a nation. Shrenik Gandhi, CEO and Co-founder, White Rivers Media: In my opinion, it is a fairly balanced budget. There is sufficient emphasis being laid on up-skilling, and making right investments in tech which is the need of the hour. The previous budget was more inclined towards setting up a strong foundation in the digital space, and this one is essentially focused on making further advancements. Besides, Digital Rupee being introduced is indeed, a great news across sectors and it will be exciting to finally watch it become a reality. It can prove to be a game-changer in India's future as transactions will become even more instantaneous. Speaking of the expected benefits, let’s not forget that this is India’s #Budget and not a Big Bazaar scheme announcement. So, the immediate benefit may not be seen right now but considering the long-term narrative, it is a fairly established budget. Sahil Chopra, Founder &amp; CEO- iCubesWire: While the general trend of the <keyword id="12134566" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="union-budget-2022" source="Orion">union budget 2022</keyword> has its emphasis on ease of doing business, I strongly believe, data and digital occupied the centerpiece of the budget. The plans to focus and promote the fintech and digital economy are a very strong positive move. New age technologies, keeping data and digital at heart of it will allow the tech enablers to transform multiple industries. For MSMEs, the government has plans to outlay Rs 2 trillion which is again a welcoming move that will help in enhancing startups as well as entrepreneurial opportunities for all. Besides, extension on tax exemption to startups and promotion of startups to facilitate ‘Drone Shakti’ through varied applications and drones as a service is also encouraging. The ambitious optical fibre to the villages under PPP in 2022-23 shall get the next 100M in the Digital Universe soon. To sum up, it’s a positive budget for the digital sector which has always vouched for a strong digital infrastructure in the country." Chetan Asher, Founder and CEO, Tonic Worldwide: The budget clearly will help the country march towards digital adoption and transformation in many sectors. With 5G rollout on the cards we will see an acceleration across the board. The digital rupee will put India right up on the map of advanced digital economies. Clarity on Digital assets and crypto will give it new impetus. All of these initiatives will help us emerge as leaders in adoption and growth of blockchain technology Ambika Sharma, Founder &amp; MD, Pulp Strategy: The Budget is interesting as the Government has focused on all sectors. The financial support for the digital payments ecosystem is a welcome move and further reaffirms the Government of India's digital banking push. This push on digitization will make way for more inclusion in the ecosystem. The focus on 'Ease of doing business is a great step, as it will further promote entrepreneurship in the economy” . The 2022-23 budget finely balanced fiscal retreat with supporting economic recovery. The budget focused on a familiar strategy of driving capital expenditure to drive growth, to crowd in private investment through higher public spending. Although markets could be disappointed with a higher fiscal deficit of 6.4% of GDP for FY23 than expected, it is perhaps prudent to not undertake aggressive fiscal consolidation at this nascent stage of recovery. While elevated market borrowings are likely to pressurize bond yields, the inclusion of green bonds in the borrowing plan is an interesting innovation. In terms of specific policy announcements, the move towards self-reliance through protection for domestic manufacturers (change in custom and import duties) aligns with the long-term goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The government has extended the startup tax holiday and concessional tax for manufacturing startups by a year. While that was on the cards, it doesn’t address the core need of startups to be given a longer tax holiday of 5 years as required. One of the most encouraging aspects of the budget has been the announcement to set up an AVGC (animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics) promotion task force to plan and build domestic capacity for serving domestic as well as global markets. Loss from the transfer of virtual digital assets cannot be set off against any other income. The creation of a unified logistics platform and the developments of 100 new cargo terminals in the next three years are significant steps in improving the supply chain ecosystem in the country. Infrastructure status given to Data Centers will provide a huge boost to the fast-evolving digital environment of the country. The fiscal outcome is broadly in line with our expectations with the government having continued its focus on infrastructure and rural demand. Himanshu Arya, Founder and CEO, Grapes: The Union Budget for the financial year 2022-23 has set the stage with an invigorated focus on ramping up the process of the digital revolution. The government’s focus on the digital ecosystem is a progressive move to render an inclusive landscape for job openings and entrepreneurial opportunities. The extension of tax incentives for startups for one more year will give a slight relief to the industry. I hope that the cash flow improves in the market. The Union Budget has various encouraging initiatives and is directed towards a more viable and flexible business ecosystem that completely aligns with the ideologies of Make in India. Siddharth Devnani, Co-Founder &amp; Director, SoCheers: Digital and digitization stood out as a strong overall trend in the Union Budget 2022. The budget put a great focus on long-term growth and given how intricately ‘digital’ was integrated into several measures, it can be seen as an integral part of that growth. Implementation of the Central Bank digital currency will definitively aid the growth of digital economy and finance in the country, opening doors for digital acceleration across sectors. The announcement about the new digital university and the renewed focus on digital learning, further presents an opportunity, especially to the fast-evolving Educational Technology sector. However, a definite plan on how this will pan out for all corners of India remains to be seen. Moreover, digital will also be leveraged in the set-up and operation of tele-mental health centres, providing the necessary focus and access to mental health services to the Indian masses. This comes as one of the most welcome move as it’ll contribute infinitely to the nation’s long-term growth.

The advertising industry voices its enthusiasm about the government’s steps towards boosting digital ecosystem in Union Budget 2022-23

How many IDs must one have before the Indian authorities are appeased? My apologies to Bob Dylan, but the <keyword id="6354977" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Supreme-Court">Supreme Court</keyword>’s ruling on <keyword id="6356006" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Aadhaar-card">Aadhaar Card</keyword> once again highlights how we tend to lose our vision and put in efforts where it is not needed. 
 
Only yesterday, the apex court ruled that the Aadhaar Card is not mandatory to get government benefits and services. The interim order was passed after a retired judge of the Karnataka High Court filed public interest litigation (PIL) as some of the state governments like Maharashtra are mandating the Aadhaar Card as a compulsory requirement without the Parliamentary sanction. 
 The National Identity Authority of India Bill was introduced in 2010 but it was rejected by the <keyword id="61249" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="40" keywordseo="Parliamentary-Standing-Committee">Parliamentary Standing Committee</keyword> a year later. Till date, our understanding has been that Aadhaar is voluntary in nature and has a different purpose altogether. So the sudden attempt at the Orwellian-style imposition is a bit scary. After all, many of us already have Voter ID cards, PAN cards, passports and driving licences. So why do we need yet another compulsory validation? Aadhaar should be the prerogative of the under-served India living on the edge while the rest of the country can adopt it at its own pace. The macro vision should not be lost either – we need a nationwide social security network and unique identity numbers must be generated to leverage its benefits. 
 Launched by the <keyword id="86474" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Unique-Identification-Authority-of-India">Unique Identification Authority of India</keyword> (<keyword id="6355252" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="UIDAI">UIDAI</keyword>), the chief purpose of the Aadhaar scheme is to ensure a broad <keyword id="621722" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="economic-inclusion">economic inclusion</keyword>, not enjoyed by millions. Considering the vast Indian population outside the immediate administrative radar and living below the poverty line, it makes sense to have an all-purpose identity proof – a pass key to the direct benefits transfer (DBT) scheme. According to the central government, Aadhaar has been launched to “promote inclusion and benefits of the marginalised sections of the society that has no formal identity proof” and <keyword id="1878763" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Aadhaar-enabled-service-delivery">Aadhaar-enabled service delivery</keyword> is linked to various government schemes such as scholarship, pension, janani suraksha yojana, payment of social security benefits, distribution of LPG subsidy and more. But we have not progressed very far as things can only move slowly in a vast and thickly populated country like India. Once the permanent enrolment centres come up all over the country, the ‘inclusion’ will happen fast. 
 But there is another hitch. The Supreme Court is of the opinion that the use of Aadhaar should not be made mandatory as <keyword id="109240" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="illegal-immigrants">illegal immigrants</keyword> may leverage it to legitimise their status. Here is one observation, though. Aadhaar is just an identity proof, not a citizenship proof like a <keyword id="661164" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="voter-ID-card">Voter ID card</keyword>. So when the Aadhaar mapping is completed, a second and more stringent level of scrutiny should weed out that problem. 
 
However, one must remember that the consent of an individual is indispensable for Aadhaar. Unlike a Voter ID or a PAN card, one is under no legal obligation to get an Aadhaar Card. Therefore, the sudden and forceful implementation may actually violate one’s Fundamental Rights. Also, a lot of people don’t want to opt for it as they are not too sure if their biometric data (required for Aadhaar Card) will be secure with third party service providers. So the best way ahead will be priority-based adoption and gradual inclusion of the entire country. But how long it will take to reach that goal is anybody’s guess.

Do
You Need Aadhaar Card? Govt Says Yes, Supreme Court Says No

<ul class="generic-article__summary--ul content--ul"><li class="generic-article__summary--li content--li">West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress woos Kolkata’s Chinese community as it faces a tough fight from Narendra Modi’s BJP</li><li class="generic-article__summary--li content--li">Though they do not have the numbers to influence government policy, the head of the Chinese Indian Association says voting is an important activity if you want to feel part of a country</li></ul> Restaurateur Monica Liu, 66, is an ethnic Chinese but has lived in the Indian city of Kolkata all her life. She and her family are among the estimated 6,000 Indian citizens of Chinese origin living in the country – with about 5,000 of them living in Kolkata, many with Hakka heritage. They are mostly descendants of those who fled to India in the middle of the 19th century to escape turmoil caused by the clash between British forces and Qing dynasty troops known as the <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/2075509/dark-legacy-britains-opium-wars-still-felt-today-amid-fight-against" class="link-text">Opium Wars</a> and the bloody rebellion against dynasty known as the Taiping Uprising. The Chinese community has long been marginalised by Indian authorities despite their presence for over 200 years. Those of Chinese origin born before 1950 cannot get Indian citizenship, leaving them holding on to Chinese and British passports while some have ended up being stateless after deciding not to renew their temporary resident permits. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010741/indian-election-explained-how-narendra-modis-good-days-turned" class="link-text">Indian election: how Modi’s ‘good days’ turned bad </a></h3>But for those who are citizens, more have decided to participate in politics after community leaders began mobilising people to get their voter identity cards in the last two decades, said Bean Ching Law, president of the Chinese Indian Association. Kolkata voters will go to the ballot booth on Sunday, the last day of polling in <a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010741/indian-election-explained-how-narendra-modis-good-days-turned" class="link-text">India’s mammoth six-week general election</a> . In recent weeks, election wall graffiti in Chinese, requesting votes for the candidate of the Trinamool Congress party (TMC), appeared on the walls of Kolkata’s Chinatown in the Tangra district. Trinamool runs the state government in West Bengal, where Kolkata is situated.SUBSCRIBE TO THIS WEEK IN ASIA Get updates direct to your inbox Members of the community say it’s the first time they’ve seen this sort of outreach to them. Most think that it is an extension of the Trinamool’s grass roots-level growth in the state. After all, no one from the party has approached the elders of the Chinese community for votes. Also, Kolkata North, the constituency within which the Chinatown falls, will see tough fight between the candidates of the TMC and <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/narendra-modi" class="link-text">Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s</a> Bharatiya Janata Party, making every vote a crucial one for either side.A history of exclusion Law, a 49-year-old entrepreneur, has fought for the rights for the Chinese community since his return from the US in 2007. One of his strategies has been to attempt to obtain Overseas Indian Citizenship (OCI) for those born before 1950. The OCI, which gives foreign citizens permission to work and live in India indefinitely, will help such individuals avoid having to spend around US$156 annually to renew a permit allowing them to stay in the country. “However, these applications were rejected [by authorities] saying those individuals never showed the need to become an Indian citizen,” he says. “This is false: people applied for passports in the 1960s and were rejected outright. In fact, it was this rejection letter that helped them get other countries’ passports.” Law has been encouraging the community to vote. “Voting is the most important activity if you want to feel part of a country. It differentiates you from a person from another country. It is a sign that you belong here…..For any other Indian, why is it important to vote? The same reasons apply to us,” he said. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010707/india-elections-bjp-may-need-allies-narendra-modi-drove-away" class="link-text">BJP may need the allies Modi drove away </a></h3>But he is pragmatic, pointing out that they do not have the numbers to influence government policy, even about themselves. “[This is the] weakness of democracy as far as microscopic minorities are concerned. Democracy is always about the majority; the minuscule minority is dirt,” he said. For Liu, the memory of how her family was snatched from their homes and thrown in prison for five-and-a-half years after the <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1452590/1962-sino-indian-war-still-stirs-bitter-controversy" class="link-text">Sino-Indian war</a> , remains.The clash between tens of thousands of Indian and Chinese troops took place between October and November 1962, after a series of border incidents sparked by India’s decision to grant asylum to the Dalai Lama after a failed Tibetan rebellion against Chinese rule. China declared a ceasefire on November 19 but that was when the danger began for India’s ethnic Chinese residents. Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, greets her supporters in Kolkata. Photo: Reuters Liu recalls how her mother saw it coming, her intuition sharpened by listening for Japanese bomber aircraft and running for cover in her village in southern China during the Second World War. “She packed bags full of clothes for each of my siblings and tasked me with equipping them with the bags, when the police came for us,” Liu said. It was 5am when the police knocked on the door and explained that all ethnic Chinese were being rounded up, days before India’s Parliament passed a law that allowed the detention of people assessed to be “of hostile origin”. The Indian government has never released the numbers, so estimates on the number of detainees vary: of the roughly 40,000 Chinese-origin individuals in India at the time, between 3,000 and 10,000 were detained, although no one was successfully prosecuted. Mass deportations to China and migrations to countries like Canada, the US and Australia, mostly from the affluent members of community who were Hakka, followed the detentions. Liu’s family was offered deportation to China soon after internment but her father chose to remain in India. “My mom wanted to go. My daddy didn’t want to. Dad said, “I have nobody in China. When I go back, what will I do?,”she said. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/opinion/article/3009682/exploiting-islamophobia-election-winning-tool-india" class="link-text">Exploiting Islamophobia: an election-winning tool in India </a></h3>Indian filmmaker Rafeeq Ellias compared the Chinese internment in India to when Americans of Japanese origin were detained during the Second World War. “People have not even spoken about their experiences even to their own children,” said Rafeeq, who made a documentary, The Legend of Fat Mama, about Kolkata’s Chinese community in 2005. Ellias has also written about the need for the Indian government to acknowledge the internment. The Japanese Americans documented their experience and were able to obtain an apology from the US government. The ethnic Chinese in India have been unable to do that. “They have been so marginalised and so few in number and the young people have all migrated at the first opportunity,” he says. “They don’t even have a sense of history or continuity.” Sinking roots But things could be changing. Singapore-based Rinkoo Bhowmick, who founded the CHA project, said she saw younger ethnic Chinese choosing to remain in India instead of migrating to countries like Canada, the US and Australia because the economy was doing well. The CHA project has been attempting a revival of Kolkata’s Old Chinatown in the Tiretta Bazaar area, which is where the first migrants settled, before pollution regulations forced the creation of a New Chinatown in 1910 in Tangra, about 7km away. The project plans to transform the Old Chinatown into a vibrant public space through events and heritage conservation. “The decision of these youngsters to stay back should eventually give rise to a sense of belonging,” Bhowmick said. Others like Thomas Chen, 42, joint secretary of the Indian Chinese Association (ICA), one of the many organisations for ethnic Chinese, have been working to promote Chinese culture and heritage among Indian society. Chen speaks with pride of teaching a contingent of the Indian Army a Mandarin song about friendship. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/geopolitics/article/2104347/imagine-what-china-and-india-can-do-together" class="link-text">Imagine what China and India can do together </a></h3>“I also wrote a Chinese song on the Mid-Autumn Festival for the Indian Chinese Association. It was telecast twice last year on China Central Television.” The now-defunct project of the ICA, which has only 10 members, also saw the association organise Chinese-language classes for Indian companies Tata Iron and Steel, and Infosys. Robert Hsu, secretary of the ICA, said he knew of community members who were uncomfortable at how the Indian media took a jingoistic line on the 2017 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/china-india-border-dispute" class="link-text">border stand-off between the armies of India and China</a> . Indian soldiers wanted China to stop construction of a road extension project in a location claimed by its ally Bhutan as well as Beijing.But Hsu pointed to the organisation’s name and said it served to show that for India’s ethnic Chinese, “it has always been about being Indian first”. Indian PM Narendra Modi at an election rally in Mathurapur, south of Kolkata. Photo: AP For Monica Liu, who now owns five busy restaurants in Kolkata, the state came knocking at her door again some years back but it was for a more pleasant reason: the then-chief minister of West Bengal wanted to dine at one of her eateries. Asked about her feelings about India and her identity, Liu offered a food analogy. “People always ask me: is your food Chinese Indian or Indian Chinese,” she says. “I reply that my food is exactly Chinese. Is there Indian masala in my food? No. The only thing is that we add more of some ingredients to enhance the flavour for the Indian customer.” Her Chinese identity is rooted in India, she continued. “Indian people have never asked me whether I am Chinese. But I am asked this when I visit China. I tell them that I am Chinese, my parents were from China, I was born and brought up in India, I am doing in business in India and my features are Chinese. I then tell them they shouldn’t be asking me that question,” she said.

India election: how will the Chinese community factor play out in Kolkata?

<ul><li>The <keyword id="30067" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="RBI">RBI</keyword> has opened the second tranche of <keyword id="3281118" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sovereign-Gold-Bond-Scheme">Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme</keyword> starting from May 11.</li><li>The issue price has been fixed at ₹4,590 per gram of gold - investors can get a discount of ₹50 per gram by applying for SGBs online.</li></ul>The <keyword id="6354335" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="reserve-bank-of-india">Reserve Bank of India</keyword> (RBI) has opened the second tranche of the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme starting today, May 11. RBI has fixed the issue price under this scheme at ₹4,590 per gram of gold. If you want a safe option to invest your surplus money, RBI’s Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme could be a good option, especially in these times of market volatility. <ol><li>What is the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme? Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) are government securities which are denominated in the form of grams of gold. It is similar to buying gold without taking its physical delivery.SGBs are issued by the RBI on behalf of the Government of India.</li><li>How to apply for SGBs? You can apply for SGBs either by using the form provided by the issuing banks, designated post offices, Stock Holding Corporation of India or RBI’s website. Additionally, the investors can also apply online by visiting the website of the bank.The issue price of the gold bonds will be ₹50 less than the nominal value while applying online.</li><li>What documents do I need to apply for SGBs? The investor needs any one of the following KYC documents to invest in SGB -Proof of identity (Aadhaar card/PAN or TAN/Passport/Voter ID card)</li><li>Why should I buy SGB instead of physical gold? Buying a SGB is superior to buying physical gold due to multiple factors, which are:a. You are assured of getting the market value of physical gold at the time of redeeming SGB.b. The risk associated with storing physical gold is eliminated by SGB as SGBs are held in demat form.c, Making charges and risk of lower purity are both eliminated.</li><li>What is the maturity period of SGBs? SGBs come with a maturity period of 8 years.However, investors can redeem SGBs after 5 years, but this will be considered as a premature withdrawal.</li><li>What are the risks involved in SGBs? Just like physical gold, the risk associated with SGB is very low. However, as the prices of gold depend on market performance, there may be a risk of capital loss. It must be noted that regardless of market rates, the units of gold held by the investor does not change.</li><li>Who can invest in SGB? The Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999 (FEMA) has formulated the eligibility criteria for investing in SGB. As per this, Indian residents, associations, trusts, HUFs, universities and charitable institutions are eligible for investing in SGB.While minors cannot hold SGBs directly, their parents or guardians can hold SGBs on behalf of them.</li><li>What is the interest rate on SGBs? The interest rate on SGB has been fixed at 2.50% per annum and it is paid every six months.</li><li>What are the minimum and maximum investment limits for investment? The SGBs are issued in denominations of 1 gram and in multiples thereof. The maximum limit is 4kg for individuals, 4kg for HUF and 20kg for trusts and similar entities notified by the government. An investor can buy 4kg / 20kg of SGB every year. </li><li>Who is authorized to sell SGBs? The SGBs are sold through branches or offices of nationalized banks, scheduled private banks, scheduled foreign banks, designated post offices, Stock Holding Corporation of India, authorized stock exchanges and their agents.</li></ol>See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/how-to-avail-three-month-moratorium-for-sbi-emi-and-credit-cards/articleshow/74945199.cms">How to avail three-month moratorium for SBI EMI and credit cards</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/how-to-avail-three-month-moratorium-for-icici-bank-emi-and-credit-cards/articleshow/74941936.cms">How to avail three-month moratorium for ICICI Bank EMI and credit cards</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/personal-finance/news/how-to-apply-for-emergency-loan-from-sbi/articleshow/75441666.cms">How to apply for emergency loan from SBI</a>

You Searched For "passport authority of india" and got 12 results

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India election: how will the Chinese community factor play out in Kolkata?

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