Air Suvidha 2.0 Explained: New Health Rules for International Travellers in India

AIR SUVIDHA 2.0 is a fully digital and contactless passenger health declaration platform for international arrivals. It aims to improve India's health monitoring system for international travellers. The updated system helps passengers to submit health information digitally before arrival, allowing the authorities to identify possible health risk faster and smoothen the arrival process. This step has been taken following the concerns of Ebola virus that might be life-threatening. 

What Is Air Suvidha 2.0?

Air Suvidha 2.0 is an upgraded version of India’s digital health declaration platform for international passengers. The Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with International Airport Limited (DIAL) launched an upgraded portal in response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of an Ebola/Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the 2005 International Health Regulations (IHR).

Why Has India Introduced Air Suvidha 2.0?

With the increasing global travel, digital screening systems will help the authorities. This platform will strengthen India's preparedness against possible health threats and will help in taking timely action. 

What New Rules Apply to International Travellers?

International travellers have to submit a mandatory online Health Self-Declaration before immigration clearances. The form includes 21 days travel history, exposure history, symptoms related to Ebola infection. The form has to be submitted during web check-in and the process can be completed up to 24 hours before arrival in India. Once complete passengers need to submit Self Declaration Form at the International Travel Health Desk or Immigration Counter. 

Is Air Suvidha 2.0 Mandatory for All International Passengers?

The requirement of Air Suvidha 2.0 depends on the health guidelines issued by authorities at the time of travel. International passengers arriving in India may need to complete the health declaration process as part of the updated screening measures.

How Is Air Suvidha 2.0 Different From the Earlier System?

The upgraded system focuses on a more digital and coordinated approach. Instead of relying mainly on manual processes, Air Suvidha 2.0 allows passengers to submit information online and enables faster communication between airport and health authorities.

Understanding Ebola Virus

Ebola is severe often life-threatening disease transmitted through blood, bodily fluids or tissue of infected individuals. The symptoms can include sudden fever, severe weakness, muscle pain, headace, sore throat, vomiting diarrhea, internal and external bleeding in severe cases.