GS 2 – GOVERNANCE
Context: The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) was launched to enhance immigration clearance for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, ensuring a streamlined and secure international travel experience.
Objective and Vision
- Primary Goal: To simplify and expedite immigration processes while maintaining security.
- ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’: Aligns with India’s vision to upgrade travel infrastructure and achieve developed nation status by 2047.
- Global Standards: Elevates Indian airports to international benchmarks for fast-track immigration.
Key Features and Process
- Nodal Agency: Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Registration: Travellers must register via an online portal and upload required documents.
- Biometric Verification: Conducted at foreign registration offices or airports to verify identity.
- Automated Clearance: Verified passengers can use e-gates for automated immigration processing.
- Free Service: Initially available without any charges for eligible participants.
Phases of Implementation
- Phase 1:
- Covers Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
- Implemented at seven major airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.
- Phase 2:
- Expands to include foreign nationals.
- Rollout planned at 21 major airports across India.
Global Fast-Track Immigration Programs
- United States:
- Global Entry Programme (2008): Expedites immigration for low-risk travellers from selected countries, including India.
- United Kingdom:
- Registered Traveller Service (2015): Allows frequent travellers from certain nations, including India, to use e-gates at airports.
- European Union:
- Smart Borders Initiative (2016): Introduced biometric-based Entry/Exit System (EES) for improved border checks.
- Australia:
- SmartGate System (2007): Uses automated kiosks to verify identity through passport scans and facial recognition.
- Saudi Arabia:
- Smart Travel System (2019): Biometric-based expedited clearance, especially beneficial during high-traffic events like Hajj.