Security Advice BASIC TRAVEL TIPS – What You Should Do Every Time You Travel

Security Advice BASIC TRAVEL TIPS – what you should do every time you travel

• Don't stand out: dress inconspicuously and avoid displaying jewellery or valuables such as laptop computers or cameras. • Do not carry large sums of cash. • Familiarise yourself with your destination - the layout of the city and important routes – and be vigilant. • Always carry a charged phone programmed with useful numbers - your hotel, local colleagues, police, or embassy - and the International SOS Assistance app. • When out and about, keep a safe distance from large, unpredictable crowds – demonstrations or political rallies - and avoid commotions on the street. • Don't give out personal information and don't discuss your plans with strangers. • Memorise useful local phrases (please, thank you, yes, no, how much, stop here, etc.). • Don't drink to excess: it is likely to reduce your level of awareness and judgment. • Do not accept food or drinks from strangers: keep your food and drink in sight when socialising. • Carry cash in more than one pocket, and keep a small amount in a top pocket to hand over to a criminal who confronts you. A dummy wallet – with a small amount of local currency, an expired credit card and some useless receipts – can be useful to satisfy a mugger. • If walking in public, carry small denominations of currency and keep the bulk of cash and cards in a money belt, which should only be accessed in private places. • If you suspect that you are being followed, enter any busy public place and call for help.

TIPS FOR USING SHARING ECONOMY SERVICES

• Check your company policy allows the use of sharing economy transport and accommodation services. • Confirm the services are legal at your destination. • Use ‘for business' versions of the services. • Safe use of sharing economy services varies significantly according to your profile and destination: if in doubt, or for profile-specific advice, contact our Assistance Centres.

ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR WOMEN TRAVELLERS - Female travellers face additional risks in some destinations

• Observe and respect local clothing customs. Dress modestly to avoid drawing attention. • In some countries, a lone female traveller is a source of curiosity: you may be stared at if travelling alone. As a precaution, avoid eye contact with strangers, especially on the street and on public transport. • A wedding ring – even a fake one – can reduce levels of unwanted male attention. • Decline politely but firmly any invitations which make you feel uncomfortable, even if faced by amicable pressure to accept. • Ignore suggestive comments. • A door wedge and/or portable alarm are useful items for extra security in some destinations. • In some destinations, women-only floors are available and provide additional reassurance; ask about them when you book your room. • If travelling alone, restrict evening entertainment to business-class hotels or membership clubs. • Check the transport options at your destination. • Check additional precautions advised for women travellers: call for advice if you have any concerns about the risks you might face in a given destination.

Risk Ratings

HIGH MEDICAL RISK for India MEDIUM TRAVEL RISK for India LOW TRAVEL RISK for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Leh district (Ladakh region) HIGH TRAVEL RISK for Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, non- coastal districts of Odisha (Orissa), eastern areas of Maharashtra and parts of the Kashmir valley

Risk Summary

Normal travel is possible to most parts of India. However, the security environment varies considerably across the country. Travel risks are higher in the north-eastern states of Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura, as well as in the states affected by extreme-leftist Naxalite (also known as Maoist) violence, including parts of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, the Gadchiroli and Gondiya districts of Maharashtra, and inland districts of Odisha (Orissa). Travel risks are also higher in the Kashmir valley and the Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban districts of Jammu region due to separatist unrest and militancy.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, chain- and bag-snatching, is common in crowded cities and tourist areas, but the risk of physical attack is minimal. Kidnaps-for-ransom primarily target the local population. Gang crimes are also common, though these have tended not to directly affect foreigners. Crime against women, including sexual assault, occurs with some regularity and requires the adoption of extra security precautions. Political rallies have the potential to become violent, particularly during election cycles. Demonstrations are common and can escalate without warning in areas where tensions are heightened, though foreigners are unlikely to be targeted.

This information is intended as a summary of the travel security environment; however, the risks can change at short notice during a crisis or evolving situation. Please check our travel security alerts to ensure you are informed of the most recent developments.

STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE

Alerts Western coastal states: Expect heavy rainfall, associated disruption until at least 14 June during passage

of Cyclone Vayu

Heat related health risks

West Bengal state: Avoid protests on 10, 12 June by political party; shutdown strike called in Basirhat

View All Alerts

Alerts

Western coastal states: Expect heavy rainfall, associated disruption until at least 14 June during passage of Cyclone Vayu

Created and/or Modified: Tuesday, June 11, 2019 05:50:03 GMT

Level: Advisory Location: India Category: Cyclone, Transport disruption

Members in western coastal states until at least 14 June should anticipate heavy rainfall, possible flooding and associated disruption. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Vayu is currently over the Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep union territory and is expected to intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm over the next 12 hours. It is forecast to move northward and make landfall over Gujarat state overnight on 12-13 June. Members should anticipate short-notice disruption and maintain flexible itineraries.

Advice

• Monitor the IMD website to remain apprised of prevailing weather conditions; be prepared to adjust itineraries at short notice. • Liaise with local contacts and local authorities to ascertain the status of roads and the feasibility of overland travel before setting out. Plan journeys avoiding areas affected by heavy rainfall, and allow additional travel time. • Travel to affected areas requires robust journey management planning; take note of emergency response measures and remain flexible in the event of disruption. Do not drive through floodwaters, as they may be electrically charged due to underground or fallen power lines. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and find another route to your destination. • We do not hold information on specific flights or other modes of transport. Contact the relevant transport provider to reconfirm schedules. In the event of cancellations, your travel agency will be able to assist with alternative arrangements. • Monitor our alerts on India for further updates.

More detail

The IMD has issued the following associated weather warnings for the coming days:

11 June

• Red warning (Take Action, highest): Madhya Pradesh, coastal areas of Rajasthan • Orange warning (Be Prepared, second-highest): Rajasthan • Yellow warning (Be Updated, second-lowest on a four-tier scale): Coastal states except Gujarat

12 June

• Orange warning: Madhya Pradesh, west Uttar Pradesh, coastal areas of Rajasthan • Yellow warning: Punjab, Gujarat, Haryana and the capital New Delhi, coastal areas of Karnataka and Maharashtra, Goa, east Rajasthan

13 June

• Yellow warning: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, coastal areas of Kerala, Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra.

14 June

• Yellow warning: Coastal areas of Gujarat

Heat related health risks

Created and/or Modified: Monday, June 10, 2019 09:58:48 GMT

Level: Advisory Location: India Category: Heatwave

Latest update: slight drop in temperature in some locations. Very hot weather conditions have been reported in most parts of the country with unusually high temperatures being recorded in some locations. Exposure to excessive temperatures for a sustained period can pose health risks ranging from relatively mild rashes and sunburn up to heat stroke, a medical emergency. To prevent heat-related illnesses, keep yourself hydrated and avoid exposure to heat.

Advice

• Minimise time in the sun, especially when the sun is at its strongest (between 10 am and 4pm). • Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated and sugary drinks. • Avoid excess physical activity, or defer until the temperature lessens. • Use air conditioning and fans to reduce exposure to sustained high temperatures. • Wear loose, cool clothing that covers the body. Natural fibers are often cooler than synthetics. • Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Apply liberally to all exposed body parts and reapply as advised by the manufacturer. • Protect the face and eyes. Wear a hat and UV filtering sunglasses. • In case of heat rash, alleviate the discomfort by keeping cool, and bathing often. If the rash is very itchy, an over-the-counter lotion may help. • Rest immediately if you begin to feel weak or dizzy. Lie down in a cool, shaded place and seek medical assistance if symptoms persist.

More detail

A number of states have been impacted by severe heat wave conditions, with maximum temperatures reaching 47 degree Celsius (116 degrees Fahrenheit) or above. Some locations in Delhi, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Telangana states are the most affected. Major cities and tourist destinations impacted (within the above-mentioned states) include New Delhi and the National Capital Region (Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad), Agra, Aurangabad, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Lucknow and Nagpur.

As of early June, some locations recorded a slight decrease in temperature. Overall the situation is expected to improve by mid-June.

Heat waves are a common occurrence in parts of India during the summer season which usually lasts between March and June and may rarely extend till July.

What are the health implications?

Exposure to intense temperatures can pose health risks ranging from relatively mild rashes and sunburn up to the dangerous condition, heat stroke.

Sunburn develops when skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. The result is red, painful skin that sometimes becomes swollen and blistered. Severe sunburn can also cause chills, fever, nausea and vomiting.

Heat rash, sometimes called "prickly heat" or "miliaria", often occurs on skin covered by clothing. The rash may cause no symptoms, or may itch or sting. Once in a cooler environment, it often it gets better on its own. Occasionally treatment may be required. Heat exhaustion is a risk, especially for elderly people and those who work or exercise in hot environments. Initial symptoms are excessive sweating and muscles cramps. These can progress into fatigue, headache, dizziness, fainting and other symptoms. The situation is more serious if dehydration symptoms develop (dry skin and mouth, increased thirst, fast pulse).

Heat stroke is a serious illness which occurs when the body's cooling mechanism fails due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It is a medical emergency. Body temperature rises to dangerous levels during heat stroke. This can occur quickly: temperatures may rise to 41 degrees C (106 degrees F) or even higher within 15 minutes. In addition to fever, patients may become confused, disoriented, uncoordinated, and have trouble speaking or understanding others. These are signs of serious illness. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

For more information:

• See the “Heat and Sun” and “Dehydration” articles in the “Travel Advice” dropdown on International SOS Location Guides. • See notices on heat and affected areas on the India Meteorological Department website. • See the International SOS Location Guide for India. • Contact any International SOS Assistance Centre.

Assessment

Heat waves are common and known to occur intermittently during summer season.

Advice for managers

If relevant to your travellers, ensure they are aware of:

• Regional health threats including heat related health risks. • What to do if they get sick during and after travel.

Consider:

• Stipulating a medical pre-travel consultation.

West Bengal state: Avoid protests on 10, 12 June by political party; shutdown strike called in Basirhat

Created and/or Modified: Monday, June 10, 2019 06:08:49 GMT

Level: Notice Location: West Bengal state - India Category: Protest/Rally, Road disruption

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a 12-hour bandh (shutdown strike) in Basirhat (North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal state), and protests across West Bengal on 10 June. Additionally, a demonstration is planned for 12 June from Wellington square to the police headquarters in Lal Bazar in the state capital Kolkata. The rallies are being held over the death of several BJP activists during clashes with the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) party supporters on 8 June. Members in West Bengal should plan journeys avoiding all protests and reconfirm that routes are clear before setting out.

Advice

• Liaise with local contacts to plan routes bypassing all known protests and political gatherings. • Leave an area at the first sign of unrest or if activists and/or the security forces are gathering. Relocate to a secure location, such as your accommodation or local office, and remain there until the situation stabilises. • Expect a heightened security force presence around rallies. Abide by official directives and carry relevant identification documents to ease passage through checkpoints. • If travelling to areas under a bandh, ensure pre-arranged transport and check the status of your planned route before setting out. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks erected by demonstrators, as this may elicit a hostile reaction. If you come across a roadblock, turn around, where safe to do so, and seek an alternative route. Allow additional time for important journeys. • Monitor our alerts on India for notable developments.

More detail

The bandh in Basirhat is likely to be in place until around 18.00 (local time). Internet services in the city have been restricted by the local authorities as a precaution.

Clashes between BJP and TMC supporters have occurred across West Bengal during and post-elections, some of which involved gunfire and arson. Recent significant incidents include the death of four activists in Basirhat’s Sandeshkhali area on 8 June, and the death of one TMC member in Cooch Behar on 5 June.

Such incidents tend to occur around party venues and gatherings; bystanders face credible incidental risks given the frequent use of small firearms and crude bombs.

Plan journeys accounting for intermittent travel disruption during monsoon season (Revised)

Created and/or Modified: Sunday, June 09, 2019 06:56:49 GMT

Level: Notice Location: India Category: Flood, Landslide, Transport disruption

Members should anticipate intermittent disruption to travel and essential services during the ongoing monsoon season. The India Meteoreological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in Kerala, parts of Tamil Nadu and coastal Karnataka states over the next 48-72 hours. Asom (Assam), Manipur and Tripura, as well as inner Karnataka and Goa states are expected to be affected by similar adverse weather conditions on 11-13 June. Travellers should maintain flexible itineraries and consult local contacts regarding the feasibility of journeys before setting out

Advice

• Monitor the India Meteorological Department (IMD) website for up-to-date information on weather conditions and associated warnings; be prepared to adjust itineraries at short notice. • Liaise with local contacts to ascertain the status of roads and the feasibility of overland journeys before setting out. Allow additional time to complete journeys. • Travel to an affected area requires robust journey management planning; take note of emergency response measures and remain flexible in the event of disruption. Do not drive through floodwaters, as they may be electrically charged due to underground or fallen power lines. If you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination. • Heavy rainfall may disrupt essential services such as electricity and communications. Charge all communications devices and, where feasible, keep extra batteries for backup. Reconfirm that your accommodation has backup power supply before making reservations. • We do not hold information on specific flights or other modes of transport. Contact the relevant service provider to reconfirm schedules. In the event of cancellations, your travel agency will be able to assist with alternative arrangements. More detail

Flooding routinely affects low-lying areas along rivers and in major cities, including Mumbai (Maharashtra state), Bangalore (Karnataka) and Kolkata (West Bengal state), where drainage systems are inadequate. In 2018, around 1,000 people were killed and thousands others displaced due to severe flooding, with the southern state of Kerala being the worst affected. Asom, Maharashtra, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura were some of the other states that experienced flooding.

During the rainy season, which is expected to last until September, landslides are common in the mountainous areas of north-eastern states, the northern states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Jammu region and the Kashmir valley. The severe weather often causes short-notice disruption to overland travel, as the condition of roads, including national highways, could quickly deteriorate. Disruption to rail services is also possible in any flood-affected area.

Nipah virus in Kerala state

Created and/or Modified: Sunday, June 09, 2019 05:06:51 GMT

Level: Advisory Location: Kerala - India Category: Nipah virus

Latest update : Nipah positive case in a stable condition; no additional cases detected. A case of Nipah virus (NiV) has been confirmed in Kerala. Nipah is a potentially fatal viral disease. People get infected through direct contact with infected bats, animals or other people, or through consuming fruit / unpasteurised fruit juice which has been contaminated by bats. There is no specific treatment and no vaccine for NiV. Prevent illness by avoiding contact with sick people, infected animals (particularly bats) and selecting safe food and beverages. International SOS is monitoring the situation closely and if you should require medical attention, call International SOS.

Advice

Do the following:

• Pay strict attention to hygiene. • Avoid contact with sick people and their body fluids, including in healthcare facilities. • Avoid contact with animals, especially bats. • Do not consume raw date palm juice or any fruit that has bitten by bats or other animals.

More detail

A man in Ernakulam is confirmed to be infected with Nipah virus. He is currently hospitalised and undergoing treatment. His condition is reported to be stable. There is limited information on how he got infected. Over 300 contacts have been identified and are under observation. Several symptomatic people have been isolated, ten have tested negative for the virus and one result is awaited. Health officials have stepped up measures to control the outbreak including setting up a Nipah control room.

In May 2018, more than 15 people were infected in Kozhikkode and Malappuram districts in the state.

What is Nipah virus?

Nipah virus (NiV) is an emerging illness that is not yet thoroughly understood. The first human cases occurred in the late 1990s. Fruit bats appear to be a natural reservoir for the virus. They carry the virus without becoming ill, and are able to pass it to many other animals including dogs, cats, horses and pigs. Humans can be infected in several ways - through contact with sick pigs (direct contact with the pigs or their tissues, or inhaling the virus), contact with bats (urine or saliva), consuming fruit / unpasteurised date palm juice contaminated by bats, or from direct contact with sick people (through contact with their secretions and excretions).

People may have no symptoms, or suffer a mild "flu-like" illness with fever, headache and muscle pain. It can progress to a severe illness, with pneumonia, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). In such cases, people can become drowsy, disoriented and suffer convulsions and coma. Of those who develop symptoms, about 40 to 75 percent die.

There is no specific treatment for NiV, nor is there a vaccine to prevent it. Prevention is through avoiding contact with animals, including bats, and their environment, following safe food and water precautions, paying attention to hygiene and avoiding contact with sick people.

For more information:

• See "Nipah virus" in the "Health Threats" dropdown on the International SOS Location Guides • See the Travel Advice article "Selecting Safe Food and Water" on the International SOS Location Guides • Contact any International SOS assistance centre.

Assessment

Contacts are being monitored, more cases may be reported.

Advice for managers

Ensure employees and travellers are aware of:

• Regional health threats including Nipah virus, its transmission and prevention strategies. • What to do if they get sick during and after travel.

Consider:

• Distributing Nipah awareness materials. • Forming a response plan, should a case of Nipah be identified amongst your employees.

Kashmir valley: Exercise caution amid increased risk of unrest, short- notice strikes; defer non-essential overland travel

Created and/or Modified: Monday, June 03, 2019 08:34:05 GMT

Level: Notice Location: Kashmir Valley - India Category: Protest/Rally, Strike, Police/security operation

Members in or travelling to the Kashmir valley in the coming months should continue to exercise caution due to the increased risk of social unrest during the ongoing summer protest season. Security operations against separatist militants and police violence during demonstrations are liable to spark sporadic protests. Members should continue to defer non-essential travel to the southern Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian districts of the Kashmir valley and districts bordering Pakistan amid an escalation of bilateral tensions since February 2019. Non-essential overland travel, including along National Highway (NH)-44, during this period of heightened tension should be deferred. Advice

• Travel to the Kashmir valley and Jammu region border districts with Pakistan, including Bandipore, Baramulla, Kupwara and Poonch, Ganderbal and Kishtwar, as well as Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian districts (all southern districts in Kashmir valley) should be for essential purposes only and conducted with security support and after ensuring the relevant permissions have been granted. • Defer non-essential travel to and minimise time spent in the Old City areas of Srinagar due to the potential for violent separatist-led protests. Travel to the rest of Srinagar, including from its Sheikh ul- Alam International Airport (SXR) to business-class hotels and tourist areas around Dal Lake, can proceed with stringent precautions. Air travel to Srinagar is recommended. • If travelling to other districts in the Kashmir valley (as well as the HIGH risk Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban districts of Jammu region), reconfirm all transport and accommodation bookings, and maintain flexible itineraries to allow for significant delays or to stand fast, if required. Your checklist should include essential items, backup communications devices, details of trusted local contacts/security providers/the relevant authorities, and measures to be undertaken if the situation deteriorates significantly.

Travellers in the Kashmir valley

• Defer non-essential overland travel in the Kashmir valley, including along National Highway (NH)-44, during this period of heightened tension. Essential overland travel should be undertaken with robust journey management planning and after confirming with the local authorities that the route is clear of protests. Exercise caution and avoid all protests and crowds as a standard precaution. Leave an area as soon protesters and/or security force personnel begin to gather. • Those undertaking essential overland travel should maintain a clear distance between their vehicles and any military convoys, which are targets for militant attacks. Minimise time spent in the vicinity of security force personnel and facilities. • Carry relevant identification documents at all times to ease passage through checkpoints and spot- checks. Be patient in dealing with the security forces and do not make any sudden moves in their presence.

More detail

The summer protest season in the Kashmir valley usually coincides with heightened security operations against separatist militants. Clashes occurred on 5 June between protesters and the security forces near Jamia Masjid in Srinagar and in Sopore (Baramulla district). The former used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. Earlier, cordons and search operations in Kulgam and Shopian districts on 29 May resulted in clashes between the security forces and protesters. The killing of a prominent militant on 23 May also led to violent protests in several areas.

Security considerations

Protests and strikes are usually well-observed in the Kashmir valley and may degenerate into violence. The security forces routinely respond with baton charges, tear gas and at times live ammunition to disperse crowds. Such unrest poses significant incidental risks to bystanders. During particularly tense periods, the authorities may impose Section 144, which prohibits gatherings of more than four people. They may also block mobile telecommunications and text messaging (SMS) services.

Travel disruption

Strikes and demonstrations can cause a near-complete shutdown of transport and commercial activity in affected areas. The authorities may block roads with barbed wire and armoured vehicles, impose checkpoints and unofficial curfews, and scrutinise identification as part of heightened security measures.

Such incidents mostly occur on major roads, including on parts of the NH-44, which passes south and west of Srinagar's Old City and connects the city with Baramulla (Kashmir valley) in the north and Jammu (Jammu region) in the south. Areas of Kashmir valley most affected by shutdown strikes are Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian and Srinagar districts. In Srinagar, violent demonstrations are usually concentrated in the Old City, especially around Jamia Masjid, and have limited impact on popular tourist areas such as Dal Lake and on access routes between Sheikh ul-Alam airport and upscale business-class hotels.

Recent Naxalite attacks underline HIGH travel risks in rebel strongholds

Created and/or Modified: Monday, June 03, 2019 04:59:56 GMT

Level: Notice Location: India Category: Terrorism

One security personnel was killed and four others injured in clashes with extreme-leftist Naxalite (Maoist) rebels on 2 June in Kathalia village of Dumka district (Jharkhand state). On the same day, the police defused an explosive device that had been planted under a bridge in the Tekatola area of Gondiya district (Maharashtra state). Earlier, on 28 May, 11 security personnel were injured in an explosion in the Kuchai area of Seraikela Kharsawan district (Jharkhand). The incidents underline the HIGH travel risks and the need to adopt enhanced security precautions in areas routinely affected by Naxalite violence.

Advice

• Travel beyond the major cities of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, non-coastal districts of Odisha, as well as Gadchiroli and Gondiya districts in Maharashtra, requires enhanced security and logistics support due to the presence of Naxalite rebels. • Where possible, travel by air. Where air travel is not possible, travel by train. As a precautionary measure, avoid travelling by train through areas affected by any Naxalite-enforced bandhs (shutdown strikes). • If travel by road is essential, journey management procedures should be implemented for all visits to Naxalite-affected areas. Ensure that colleagues are updated on all road movements, escalation times are agreed and they are clear on what to do in the event of a breakdown or if roadblocks are encountered. All journeys should be conducted during daylight hours only. • Minimise time spent near potential targets, including security force personnel, convoys and checkpoints, to mitigate the risk of incidental exposure to rebel violence.

More detail

Naxalite attacks usually take the form of ambushes or bombings targeting security force personnel and convoys, government installations and transport infrastructure. The majority of attacks and security operations take place in remote, rural locations of Naxalite-affected states. Such attacks are not intended at causing civilian casualties. However, travellers face incidental risks, especially during overland journeys through rural areas and/or beyond major cities.

Exercise vigilance, expect increased security following apparent terror threats (Revised)

Created and/or Modified: Monday, May 27, 2019 12:49:11 GMT

Level: Notice Location: India Category: Terrorism

Members in urban centres should continue to exercise vigilance following apparent terror threats in recent weeks. These have been made by the extremist Islamic State (IS) group and the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militant organisation. The authorities warned of a possible attack on military personnel and infrastructure in the Kashmir valley around 23 May. Consequently, security has further been tightened, especially around security installations. The authorities often receive such threats, which usually prove to be false. However, the country's history of militant attacks and the presence of domestic and regional militant groups mean that every threat is taken seriously.

Advice

• Remain alert to your surroundings at all times and report any suspicious behaviour or suspect packages to the authorities. • Minimise time spent around potential targets, which include public transport, religious sites, busy unsecured areas such as marketplaces, government and military buildings and personnel, and venues where the Indian social elite and Westerners are known to congregate. • Expect heightened security around key locations; follow all instructions issued by the security forces. Carry relevant identification documents to ease passage through any security checks. • Monitor our alerts on India for any notable developments.

More detail

A poster apparently released by IS on 25 April on social media threatened attacks in West Bengal and Bangladesh. The authenticity of the poster was not established. Earlier, letters supposedly sent by the JeM threatened bombings on 6 and 13 May at transport hubs, security installations and temples in the capital New Delhi and some urban centres in Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh states. These turned out to be hoaxes, as has been the case with all such previous threats.

However, there remains a persistent risk of terrorist attacks in the country, as underlined by the arrest on 29 April of a terror suspect in Kasargod (Kerala state). The suspect was allegedly planning attacks in Kerala. In addition, the police on 26 May reported that the Kerala coastal police had been placed on heightened alert following the receipt of intelligence on IS affiliates supposedly travelling towards the Lakshadweep archipelago from Sri Lanka by boat.

Security is likely to remain tight in major cities and around vital installations in the wake of the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka, which were claimed by IS, and during the ongoing Islamic holy month of Ramadan until 5 June. Related measures are particularly likely around religious sites, major hotels, shopping centres and transport hubs.

Vaccinations For India Cholera Oral vaccination is recommended for travellers Read more Hepatitis A Recommended for all travellers and expatriates, Read more Hepatitis B Recommended for all travellers and expatriates. Read more Japanese encephalitis Vaccine is recommended for people who will Read more Polio Resident nationals arriving from Afghanistan, Read more Rabies Consider for certain travellers, especially: For Read more Typhoid fever Recommended for all travellers and expatriates. Read more Yellow fever Indian Government requirements for vaccination Read more Routine Vaccinations

• All routine vaccinations should be current: these include Measles-Mumps-Rubella, Polio, Tetanus- Diphtheria-Pertussis, and Varicella. • Annual influenza vaccination. Other Medical Precautions

• Before you go - See your doctor and dentist and ensure you are in the best health before you leave. Other preparations: • Malaria • Zika Virus • Health Threats

Summary

TRAVEL RISK SUMMARY

STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE

• Travel to India can continue. Members should contact the Assistance Centre to seek itinerary-specific briefing on the current security situation and prevailing threats prior to travel. • Take sensible security precautions to mitigate the risk of petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, chain- and bag-snatching. • Confidence tricksters are known to target foreigners. Be wary of strangers and their motives and firmly decline offers of assistance or services from them or casual acquaintances. • Do not enter into public confrontation with locals; this is likely to draw a crowd that may become aggressive. • Avoid all demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings due to the incidental risk of exposure to unrest and clashes between participants and the police. • Communal violence is relatively common and can spread to areas frequented by foreigners, though they are unlikely to be targeted. In the event of unrest, where possible to do so safely, return to your accommodation and remain there until the situation has stabilised. • There is a credible risk of attack by militant separatist and Islamist extremist. Potential targets include public transport, religious sites, busy and unsecured areas such as markets, government and military buildings and personnel, and venues where the Indian social elite and Westerners are known to congregate. Small-scale attacks targeting locals are more likely than large-scale incidents, or attacks that target foreigners. Be vigilant and follow instructions from the police and security authorities. Be alert to suspicious behaviour and report any suspect packages to the authorities. • Travellers should not carry satellite phones in the country without written permission from the Department of Telecommunications. Unauthorised possession of a satellite phone may lead to its confiscation as well as detention of the concerned individual. • Do not self-drive; driving conditions are chaotic, road quality poor in many areas, and the rate of fatal accidents extremely high. Ensure that you are confident in your driver and vehicle. • If involved in a serious road traffic accident, report the incident to the nearest authorities immediately. Do not remain at the scene; foreign drivers are usually blamed in the event of a road traffic accident and aggressive accusatory crowds may develop. • Where possible, travel longer distances by air. Where air travel is not a viable option, travel by rail is preferable to long car journeys; travel by train remains significantly safer than driving, given the extremely high rate of fatal road traffic accidents. • If travelling by rail, use first- and second-class air-conditioned coaches only to ensure comfort, mitigate the risk of opportunistic petty crime and, in the case of female travellers, the risk of harassment. • Buses and auto-rickshaws are not suitable for business travellers. Metered official and radio taxis are a suitable means of travel in daylight hours in urban areas. Arrange taxis through your hotel, local office or host company. Travellers should arrange a private car and driver through their hotel or company for all other journeys. Foreign visitors should preferably arrange airport transfers through their local host or hotel. Alternate transport options include rental cabs, which are available at the arrivals hall of airports, as well as radio cabs, whose operators have desks/booths just outside the arrivals hall. Additionally, there are prepaid booths for official black-and-yellow cabs outside the arrivals terminal, though many vehicles may not have air-conditioning and are often poorly maintained, and the driver may not be fluent in English. • Women should carry a scarf/shawl and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the chest, arms to the elbow, and legs. Women travellers should minimise travel after dark as risks are not entirely mitigated even when in a small group, including those involving men. Maintain a formal tone with men not known to you. Keep your food and drinks always in sight, particularly if with a recent or casual acquaintance.

Kashmir valley, Jammu region

• Defer all travel to the Line of Control (LoC). Travel to the Kashmir valley and Jammu region border districts with Pakistan, including Bandipore, Baramulla, Kupwara and Poonch, Ganderbal and Kishtwar, should be for essential purposes only and conducted with security support and after ensuring the relevant permissions have been granted. • Expect heightened security measures and increased scrutiny from the security forces, particularly along the LoC and in India-Pakistan international border areas. Follow all official directives and carry identification documents to ease passage through checkpoints. • Air travel to Srinagar is recommended. Defer non-essential travel to and minimise time spent in the old city areas of Srinagar due to the potential for bouts of violent separatist-led protests. Travel to the rest of Srinagar, including from its Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) to business-class hotels and tourist areas around Dal Lake, can proceed with stringent security precautions. • Travel to Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian districts (all southern districts in Kashmir valley) should be for essential purposes and with robust logistics and security support/planning. • Avoid all protests and crowds as a standard security precaution and minimise time spent in the vicinity of security force personnel, convoys, checkpoints and facilities to mitigate the incidental risk of exposure to militant attacks and shoot-outs. • If travelling to other districts within Kashmir valley (as well as the HIGH risk Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban districts in Jammu region), reconfirm all transport and accommodation bookings, and maintain flexible itineraries to allow for significant delays or to stand fast, if required. Related checklist items should include a stock of essential items, back-up communications, details of trusted local contacts/security providers/authorities, and measures to be undertaken if the situation deteriorates significantly.

Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, non-coastal districts of Odisha (Orissa), and the eastern areas of Maharashtra states

• Travel beyond the major cities of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, non-coastal districts of Odisha, as well as Gadchiroli and Gondiya district in Maharashtra requires enhanced security and logistics support due to the presence of ultra-leftist Naxalite rebels. • Where possible, travel by air. • Where air travel is not possible, members should travel by train, as driving exposes travellers to poor road conditions, the high rate of road accidents and crime. However, Naxalites are known to attack trains and railway infrastructure, especially during bandhs (shutdown strikes). As a precautionary measure, members should avoid travelling by train through areas affected by bandhs. • If travel by road is essential, journey management procedures should be implemented; road travellers should ensure that colleagues are updated on all road movements, escalation times are agreed and they are clear on what to do in the event of a breakdown or if roadblocks are encountered. • Avoid sharing information on proposed routes, times and destinations as Naxalites are known to successfully lay ambushes based on prior intelligence.

Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura states

• Travel to Asom, Manipur, Tripura and Nagaland requires enhanced security and logistical support due to risks posed by banditry, militant tribal and separatist activity. Travel to these areas is periodically restricted by strikes or by the authorities. Curfews may be imposed at times of heightened tension and special permission to travel may be required. • Exercise caution if travelling in districts along the following international borders, where terrorist and separatist groups operate: West Bengal and Bangladesh; Asom and Bhutan; Nagaland and Myanmar; Manipur and Myanmar; and Bihar and Nepal.

RISK ZONES

Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, non-coastal districts of Odisha (Orissa), the eastern areas of Maharashtra and parts of the Kashmir valley: HIGH

Maoist violence is most prevalent in the rural districts of eastern and central India; this includes the entire states of Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, as well as the districts of Angul, Balangir, Bargarh, Bauda, Deogarh, Dhenkanal, Gajapati, Jajpur, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Keonjhar, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Nabarangapur, Nuapada, Phulbani, Rayagada, Sambalpur, Sonapur and Sundergarh in Odisha state, and the Gadchiroli and Gondiya districts of Maharashtra state.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Leh district (Ladakh region): LOW

The above locations are rated as LOW risk because of the absence of major ethnic and separatist conflicts as well as their low population density. Most of these areas, especially Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh and Leh, have popular tourist sites with generally adequate infrastructure. Road travel from Jammu/Kashmir to Ladakh should generally be avoided; alternative options include flying into the regional centre Leh or travelling by road from Manali (Himachal Pradesh).

Petty theft is a concern in tourist areas such as hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Foreign nationals require government permits to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as well as Lakshadweep; the relevant permits can be acquired from Indian diplomatic missions overseas, immigration offices on the mainland, or upon arrival in the respective territorial capitals; travellers may also need to report to the local police station periodically while in these areas.

Visitors to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands should fly from Chennai (Tamil Nadu state) or Kolkata (West Bengal state) instead of travelling by boat and must adhere to official restrictions against trespassing on military installations and tribal reserves.

TRAVEL RISK SUMMARY

While a series of co-ordinated terrorist attacks in Mumbai (Maharashtra state) in November 2008 caused widespread alarm, the risk posed by terrorism to business travellers and expatriates in India remains largely incidental. There continues to be a steady stream of official terrorism warnings and reported militant threats nationwide. However, these alerts have not been followed by attacks. Local media outlets tend to be alarmist and regularly report rumours as fact, which heightens fears of attack. Nevertheless, terrorist attacks, mostly of a low- level nature, are expected to recur in major urban centres. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, chain- and bag-snatching, is common in crowded cities and tourist areas, but the risk of physical attack is minimal. Kidnaps-for-ransom primarily target the local population. Gang crimes are also common, though these have tended not to directly affect foreigners. Crime against women, including sexual assault, occurs with some regularity and requires the adoption of extra security precautions. Political rallies have the potential to become violent, particularly during election cycles. Demonstrations are common and can escalate without warning in areas where tensions are heightened, though foreigners are unlikely to be targeted.

STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE

Kashmir valley, Jammu region

Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, non-coastal districts of Odisha (Orissa), and the eastern areas of Maharashtra states

Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura states

RISK ZONES

Asom (Assam), Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, non-coastal districts of Odisha (Orissa), the eastern areas of Maharashtra and parts of the Kashmir valley: HIGH

The above areas are rated as HIGH risk. The Kashmir valley (Anantnag, Bandipore, Baramula, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian and Srinagar districts) and the districts of Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban (all Jammu region) suffer from separatist militancy. Low-level ethnic insurgencies are ongoing in the north-eastern states of Asom, Manipur, Tripura and Nagaland. Maoist violence is most prevalent in the rural districts of eastern and central India; this includes the entire states of Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, as well as the districts of Angul, Balangir, Bargarh, Bauda, Deogarh, Dhenkanal, Gajapati, Jajpur, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Keonjhar, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Nabarangapur, Nuapada, Phulbani, Rayagada, Sambalpur, Sonapur and Sundergarh in Odisha state, and the Gadchiroli and Gondiya districts of Maharashtra state.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Leh district (Ladakh region): LOW

Personal Risk

CRIME

Major cities in the country have a moderate-to-high crime rate.

Opportunistic crime/petty theft

The main risks to foreign travellers and expatriates arise from petty and opportunistic crimes. Snatch-and-grab thefts by criminals on motorcycles are a common form of opportunistic crime in several major cities, including the capital Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) suburbs, Mumbai and Pune (both Maharashtra state), Hyderabad (Telangana state), Chennai (Tamil Nadu state) and Bangalore (Karnataka state). Perpetrators can resort to low-level violence, including the use of knives and other small arms. Criminal gangs frequently use stolen vehicles to carry out such crimes in order to evade detection and capture, and often operate intricate interstate networks with other gangs in neighbouring states.

Theft of passports is a major concern in tourist areas and at transport hubs, such as airports and railway stations. Special police forces patrol tourist spots in various cities; tourist police officers are dressed in uniform with their identity badges, which distinguish them from the usual police personnel.

The prevalence of scams targeting foreign visitors at major airports, railway stations, popular restaurants and tourist spots, especially in Delhi and other major urban areas is a serious concern. Travellers should be wary of strangers and their motives and firmly decline offers of assistance or services from strangers or casual acquaintances. Taxi operators and private tourist agencies are known to target foreign travellers on the basis of their perceived wealth and unfamiliarity with their surroundings. Although such confidence scams can be intimidating, they very rarely precipitate violence, and are usually averted by firmly declining any offers of assistance. Foreigners should refrain from accepting food or drinks from strangers; there have been incidents where spiked food or beverages have been offered, and victims robbed and/or sexually assaulted.

Sexual assault

Instances of crimes against women, including physical harassment and rape, are a major concern; serious incidents occur with some regularity, and are more common in isolated areas and tourist destinations. While unaccompanied females are more vulnerable to such incidents, attacks have also been reported on female travellers accompanied by men or travelling with female companions. Women should therefore take security precautions, such as dressing conservatively (it is advisable to carry a scarf/shawl), carrying a mobile phone programmed with useful and emergency contact numbers, carrying a whistle to attract attention, using pre- arranged transport (taxis should be arranged from a reputable agency or through your hotel, local office or host company) and not hitch-hiking. Please note that pepper spray is legal in India and does not require any licence or documentation to buy and local law enforcement allows a person to use pepper spray as a defence. However, the purchase of pepper spray is illegal in many countries and is prohibited for a traveller to take on most airlines, including in checked and carry-on baggage.

Residential break-ins/burglary

Robberies in suburban areas typically target isolated or poorly protected residences, though such incidents have also occurred in upmarket residential apartments. Preventive measures such as burglar alarms, security gates and outdoor lights should be adopted at residences to mitigate the threat of break-ins. Another important aspect that is commonly overlooked is domestic help and support staff such as drivers. These should be employed only after their proper police verification is done, even if hiring on the recommendation of a trusted local contact or from a reputed agency.

Hiring agencies do not necessarily have the requisite licences, and corruption within lower ranks of police and bureaucracy, as well as relatively weaker policing as compared to Western standards, mean that caution should be exercised even when hiring from reputed agencies/after police verification. Members are advised to observe sensible safety precautions, such as avoiding any discussion of financial matters and daily routines or displaying valuables, in their presence, even if the latter have been employed for a long time and are deemed trustworthy.

TERRORISM

Islamist militancy

Islamist militant violence remains a concern. There have been notable improvements in the country's intelligence- gathering capacity and its enhanced co-operation with Western security agencies since the November 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, in which 166 people were killed and another 304 injured. While militants have carried out further attacks in the city and other urban centres, the frequency of such incidents has reduced considerably in recent years and mostly concentrated in areas with higher levels of militant or insurgent activity. The last attack in a major city was in December 2014, when one person was killed and three others were injured in a bombing outside a restaurant on Church Street in central Bangalore (Karnataka state). That said, there is a continued threat of an attack, mainly small bombings and shootings, targeting security forces and transport infrastructure, among others. The potential for large bombings targeting foreigners or foreign interests will continue to be limited by the country's counter-terrorism capability.

Threat from terrorist groups in South Asia

The government has long alleged that neighbouring Pakistan trains and financially supports militant groups that carry out operations in India. While the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) are the most prominent of these, other regional militant groups, such as the Bangladesh-based Harkat-ul-Jihad-al- Islami, have established connections and cells in India and have previously executed, and retain the capacity to carry out, terrorist attacks in the country.

Regional groups, including the LeT, have a strong anti-Jewish agenda in addition to their focus on India. Jewish sites in India have been targeted in the past and remain vulnerable as prominent targets. The largest Jewish communities are in Mumbai and Pune (Maharashtra), Delhi, Kolkata (West Bengal state), Mizoram state, Manipur state, Manali (Himachal Pradesh state) and Cochin (Kochi, Kerala state). Israeli diplomatic and business interests represent an attractive target due to India's close military and intelligence relationship with Israel and the fact that India is a popular tourist destination for Israeli nationals.

Islamic State

While there are legitimate concerns regarding a small percentage of Muslim Indian youth increasingly radicalised by internet propaganda from the transnational Islamic State (IS) militant group, their numbers remain miniscule and they do not pose any significant threat within the country. An explosion onboard a Bhopal-Ujjain (both Madhya Pradesh) passenger train in March 2017, which injured ten people, is the only recorded attack by IS sympathisers in India. In January 2019, the authorities arrested suspected IS militants in Aurangabad and Thane (both Maharashtra) and Delhi, and foiled a plot to attack public gatherings related to Republic Day celebrations on 26 January.

The authorities continue to arrest suspected IS sympathisers and prevent many from leaving the country to fight alongside the group in Iraq and Syria, highlighting that they are cognisant of this evolving threat.

Concerns about potentially violent IS activity in India do reappear from time to time after incidents elsewhere, such as the Christchurch (New Zealand) mosque shootings on 15 March 2019, and the co-ordinated fatal attacks in Paris (France) overnight on 13-14 November 2015 and in December 2016 in Turkey and Germany. The federal authorities are known to order tighter security around public places and important installations in major cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, following such incidents or ahead of flashpoint dates and festivals.

Domestic Islamist militant activity

The activities of the Students' Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and its suspected offshoots, notably the Indian Mujahideen (IM), underline the presence of 'homegrown' Islamist extremism, adding another dimension to India's terrorism problem. The IM is known to have both the intent and operational capability to carry out co-ordinated attacks using relatively crude bombs in crowded and vulnerable civilian areas, including religious sites, marketplaces and transport hubs. Groups within India and across the South Asia region, sometimes with no obvious ideological affiliation, have increasingly begun to co-operate. This not only poses greater risks, but also makes it more difficult for the authorities to address the problem.

Bombings over the past two decades in Delhi, Mumbai and Pune, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh state), Jaipur (Rajasthan state), Ahmedabad (Gujarat state), Bangalore (Karnataka state) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu state) have underlined that major cities remain key targets for domestic and transnational terrorists. However, the frequency of such attacks have considerably reduced in recent years.

The federal government usually issues warnings in response to terrorist threats. While most such threats are false alarms, with the vast majority not being followed by actual attacks, the credible risk of Islamist militant groups carrying out attacks in India means that each warning must be taken seriously until proven otherwise. Such warnings are particularly common ahead of the country's Republic Day on 26 January, Independence Day on 15 August, major religious festivals, particularly the Hindu festival of Diwali (Deepawali), and high-profile events and visits.

Although a sustained counter-terrorism offensive by the security forces has led to a significant decline in both the frequency and scale of militant activity in the Kashmir valley, the number of new militants recruited has increased in recent years. Militant organisations in the state, such as the Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), JeM and Harkat-ul- Jehad-al-Islami, are most active in border districts with Pakistan, including Kupwara, Bandipore, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian and Poonch, as well as the districts of Ganderbal and Kishtwar. Most incidents of violence in these districts consist of clashes between the security forces and militants and attacks against the security forces. In one of the most significant incidents recently, a JeM militant attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama (Kashmir valley), killing 40 paramilitary personnel.

Other threats

Militant separatist groups usually call for protests and statewide bandhs that have the potential to turn violent. Although such groups rarely threaten foreigners, there are risks associated with travel to states with high levels of insurgent activity. These are: the Kashmir valley, Asom, Nagaland, Manipur, the southern districts of Odisha, northern areas of Andhra Pradesh, towns near West Bengal's border with Bangladesh, eastern districts of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh state, as well as all of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Bihar. While some insurgent groups have political affiliations, they are operationally independent.

Militant groups operating in the north-east region

While several militant separatist groups operate in the north-east, two stand out: the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), which campaigns for an independent Asom, and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak- Muivah (NSCN-IM), which seeks independence for Nagaland and is signatory to a ceasefire agreement with the federal government. A breakaway faction of the latter, the NSCN (Khaplang, NSCN-K), unilaterally ended a 14- year ceasefire with the federal government in March 2015 and subsequently carried out several fatal attacks, primarily targeting the security forces in Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. However, insurgent activity in the north-east region has declined in recent years and a sustained campaign of renewed militancy and major attacks is not expected in the region. Attacks in Asom usually target markets, railway stations, gas pipelines and power-transmission facilities. Militant groups have also operated in Manipur since it was fully integrated into India in 1949. At least 20 such organisations are currently active in the state, where small bombings recur periodically in its capital Imphal. Such groups are also known to operate in areas near the Manipur-Myanmar border. High levels of domestic migration into the state have exacerbated local resentment and fuelled insurgencies. While violence from neighbouring Nagaland has also spilled over into Manipur in the past, the situation in the state has been relatively stable in recent years. A pervasive security force presence and periodic anti-insurgency operations have curtailed the degree of freedom and resources previously enjoyed by insurgent groups.

Naxalite insurgency

While the overall number of incidents and scale of Naxalite violence have decreased in recent years, rebel activity continues to adversely affect the security environment in parts of central and eastern India. Worst-affected areas include Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, southern Odisha, and eastern Maharashtra, followed by Bihar; northern Andhra Pradesh; western West Bengal; and south-eastern Uttar Pradesh. Northern districts in Kerala which shares borders with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu were also recently listed as Naxalite-affected areas. Naxal activity is primarily confined to rural areas, where rebels are known to target government-sponsored infrastructure projects and facilities, companies seen as having a close association with the government or those involved in the extractive industries. Naxalites usually erect illegal roadblocks in an attempt to ambush security personnel, local political leaders or those they view as symbolic representatives of the government. They may engage in gunfights with the security forces or stage small-scale bombings. The operational capability of Naxalites outside their remote strongholds is limited and the threat of an attack even in smaller urban areas of moderately affected states is considered to be minimal. However, there is also a low but credible potential for one-off rebel attacks in small urban centres of affected states.

Naxal activity outside the rebels' traditional remote strongholds has emerged as an additional concern, as sympathisers of the insurgency, both individuals and small groups, have established their presence in urban centres. There are at least 128 such groups that are present in 21 states across the country. It is believed that such entities provide refuge to Maoist rebels, including senior commanders, attempting to escape security force operations in the so-called Red Corridor, while also engaging in fundraising and propaganda activity for the insurgency. Violent Maoist activity is not expected to pose a significant threat in major cities, though periodic rebel attacks are likely to remain a key security concern in the remote areas of affected districts.

KIDNAPPING

Kidnappings in India almost exclusively target the local population, mostly women and children. The vast majority are perpetrated by criminal gangs who are involved in human trafficking markets, and only around 10% of abductions are motivated by ransom. Such gangs operate throughout the country, including in major urban centres; the most frequently affected areas are Delhi and Chandigarh cities and the states of Asom (Assam), Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. Separatist groups are known to kidnap locals, especially in the north-eastern states. The kidnapping of foreign nationals, either by criminal gangs or militant separatists, remains rare.

Naxalite rebels operating in rural areas of central and eastern India are similarly known to undertake kidnap-for- ransom to fund their activities. Rebels have not targeted expatriates; the March 2012 kidnap and eventual release of two foreign tourists in rural Odisha occurred under unique circumstances and does not represent a deliberate shift in targeting by Naxalite rebels. Local business personnel will remain most vulnerable to kidnap-for-ransom while conducting overland journeys in rural areas, as kidnappers have been known to erect illegal roadblocks and conduct vehicle spot-checks to commit the crime.

SOCIAL UNREST

Protests over various topical and longstanding issues are common and frequently turn violent, posing incidental risks to travellers. Nationwide shutdown strikes are usually organised by trade unions/pressure groups to denounce government policies and can include many sectors. Even political rallies frequently witness clashes, and while foreigners are unlikely to be singled out for attack – the exceptions being journalists and photographers, whose presence is often considered provocative –, they can inadvertently be caught up in unrest. Such unrest is often disruptive as protesters block major roads and railway tracks. In the event of large or violent protests, the authorities may impose prohibitory orders (banning the assembly of more than four individuals) and curfews, which should be obeyed at all times. During volatile situations, business travellers and expatriates should ensure that their actions, such as crossing roadblocks, will not be regarded as provocative.

Communal violence

Tensions between various communities can degenerate into violence, which may be triggered by religious, linguistic or caste issues, and such incidents have the potential to escalate rapidly. What was believed to be an attack by Muslims on a train carrying Hindu activists in Godhra (Gujarat state) in February 2002 prompted communal violence that continued intermittently for four months; the fatalities ranged from 1,000 to 2,000. At least 70 people were killed and around 300,000 displaced in July-August 2012 following clashes between ethnic-Bodos and the migrant Muslim community in several districts of Asom (Assam), including Kokrajhar, Chirang and Dhubri. In addition, seemingly trivial disputes can assume communal overtones and trigger unrest between rival communities.

Disturbances are liable to spread to nearby areas and be accompanied by arson, vandalism and rioting. The country's demographic diversity and tensions between various communities mean that communal violence can flare up without warning, especially around sensitive dates/events/anniversaries, as well as in known flashpoint areas. Minor incidents or even rumours are known to regularly escalate into low-level, though disruptive, incidents of violence between different communities.

While communal violence has previously affected major cities, including city centres, such disturbances in recent years have largely been concentrated in rural/semi-urban areas. Communal unrest can affect any location with religious divisions, though it is more common in cities or districts that have large Muslim minorities, including Hyderabad (Telangana state) and Uttar Pradesh state, particularly in its western districts. Uttar Pradesh has seen a notable increase in low-level communal violence. In August-September 2013, more than 45 people were killed in communal unrest in the state's Muzaffarnagar district – the violence was triggered by the killing of three people after a local girl was allegedly sexually assaulted. The districts of Agra, Aligarh, Allahabad, Amroha, Azamgarh, Barabanki, Etawah, Gonda, Hardoi, Mainpuri, Mathura, Muzaffarnagar, Unnao and Varanasi are prone to incidents of communal unrest.

Similarly, the northern and eastern parts of West Bengal state, parts of Asom and northern areas of Kerala state have been identified as being more vulnerable to such disturbances. There have been attacks on Christian communities and interests in some rural areas, particularly in Odisha, by Hindu nationalist groups that accuse Christians of proselytising (encouraging religious conversion). While foreign nationals are rarely targeted by hardline religious groups, they may face harassment if they are perceived to be proselytising to indigenous communities.

Unrest in Kashmir valley

Bandhs (shutdown strikes) and demonstrations by separatist groups, opposition parties and disaffected elements over various issues are common, particularly on Fridays.

Unrest is largely confined to the Kashmir valley region and is typically fuelled by long-running underlying issues, including demands ranging from greater autonomy to secession, a reduction in the number of security personnel in the region and the revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. Additional triggers for such developments also include grievances related to the provision of basic services, the detention of youths and community leaders by the authorities, and allegations of security force abuses.

Districts that are typically worst-affected during shutdown strikes are Anantnag, Bandipore, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian and Srinagar. Within Srinagar city, violent demonstrations are usually concentrated in the Old City and have a limited impact on popular tourist areas such as Dal Lake. Such events have the potential to be accompanied by outbreaks of unrest, usually on Fridays. Severe transport and commercial activity disruption can be expected. The security forces often use tough measures, including tear gas, rubber bullets and, occasionally, live ammunition, to quell separatist protests in Kashmir. Curfews may be imposed at short notice at times of heightened tensions.

Statehood protest campaigns

The creation of a separate state of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh state has motivated similar protest campaigns elsewhere in the country, including for Gorkhaland (Darjeeling Hills, West Bengal) and Bodoland (western districts of Asom). Separatist protesters often resort to stone-throwing, arson, vandalism and roadblocks.

However, the statehood campaign for Bodoland – including the districts of Baksa, Chirang, Kokrajhar and Udalguri (officially known as Bodo Territorial Autonomous District (BTAD) – has largely been led by insurgent groups such as the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) and involves an armed campaign rather than related protests, which have been sporadic but disruptive. Naxalite-led shutdowns

Extreme-leftist Naxal (also known as Maoist) rebels usually impose bandhs in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal states, including small urban centres. Such strikes usually coincide with the annual Naxalite Martyrs' Week (28 July to 3 August), national holidays such as Independence Day (15 August) and Republic Day (26 January), birthdays or the death anniversaries of senior Maoist leaders, and government announcements regarding new anti-Naxalite policies. The worst-affected districts during shutdown strikes are Gadchiroli in Maharashtra; Balrampur, Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Narayanpur and Sukma in Chhattisgarh; Gumla, Latehar, Palamu and West Singhbhum in Jharkhand; Jamui in Bihar; and Kalahandi, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nuapada in Odisha. However, Naxalite bandhs have limited impact in the major cities of these states. Bandhs entail the shutdown of all commercial activities and overland transport in areas where they are enforced. In most cases, strikes called by Naxalites are widely observed in such areas, as residents fear reprisal attacks if they do not comply.

Social movements

Many social movements are linked to claims of indigenous people over natural resources and others stem from dissatisfaction with government policies that attempt to change existing resource distribution among various ethnic and social groups. Hardline regional groups in states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu frequently organise disruptive protests to demand greater benefits for the local population. Such groups have carried out attacks against migrants from other parts of India who were seen as undermining the local culture and language.

Violent protests and rallies were organised in January 2019 in the north-eastern states over the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and the government's decision to update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list. The NRC has only been updated in Asom so far; the move could instigate unrest, specifically in Cachar, Hailakandi and Karimganj districts, which are located along the Bangladesh border and have significant Muslim populations.

BUSINESSWOMEN

Female travellers face variable security risks depending upon their profile, destination and activities conducted. The attitude towards women can be quite modern in the metropolitan cities, but patriarchal structures remain deeply entrenched in smaller towns and rural areas. Unwelcome low-level verbal advances by curious or emboldened men (locally known as ‘eve-teasing') is the most common form of harassment; however, more serious incidents of sexual assault are increasing, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations across the country.

To mitigate these risks, women travellers should employ certain precautions such as:

• dressing conservatively – it is best to carry a scarf or shawl, and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the chest, arms to the elbow and legs; • maintaining a formal tone with men not known to them; • not travelling alone after dark without a trusted male companion, though they are reminded that the risks are not entirely mitigated even when moving in a small group, including those involving men; • keeping an eye on drinks in nightclubs and bars to avoid being drugged, especially when in the company of a recent or casual acquaintance; • relaying taxi and driver details to a colleague/trusted contact/relative prior to boarding the vehicle, particularly at night-time; and • carrying a mobile telephone programmed with useful and emergency contact numbers at all times.

CONFLICT

Separatism is a primary motivation for many militant groups operating in the Kashmir valley and in the north-east. Civil conflicts involving natural resources, most notably mineral wealth, forests and arable land, have occurred in eastern and north-eastern states. Among these states, Asom and Manipur are the most volatile.

Naxalites are active in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha. The violent movement predominantly affects rural areas in parts of central and eastern India, where rebels have been known to conduct symbolic attacks on privately owned or operated companies, and against security personnel. Kashmir continues to be a major source of conflict between India and Pakistan, resulting in intermittent escalation in bilateral tensions. The region remains divided between the two countries, with India in control of approximately two-thirds of the territory. The first India-Pakistan war took place in 1947-48. Following that, the two countries fought two wars in 1965 and 1971, and a limited conflict in Kargil in 1999. In the most recent escalation, India carried out an aerial strike in late February 2019 allegedly targeting a terrorist camp in Balakot (Pakistan). The strike was carried out in response to an attack by Pakistan-based militants on a security force convoy on 14 February 2019 in Pulwama district (Kashmir valley). Amid heightened tensions, the two countries temporarily closed parts of their airspace, resulting in notable flight disruption.

Relations with China have improved considerably following a brief border war in 1962. However, negotiations have been slow on the status of the contentious Line of Actual Control (LAC), which lies near the north-eastern states of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The status of Aksai Chin, which India claims as part of Kashmir and which China administers as part of the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, also remains in dispute. Concerns persist over China's military modernisation, alleged incursions near the LAC and Beijing's continued strategic relationship with Pakistan.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Numbers Fire 101 Police 100

Contact International SOS for help with your medical situation.

CRIME

Major cities in the country have a moderate-to-high crime rate.

Opportunistic crime/petty theft

Sexual assault

Residential break-ins/burglary

TERRORISM

Islamist militancy

Threat from terrorist groups in South Asia

Islamic State

However, there is no credible information to suggest that the IS has the capability to carry out attacks in India. There is also no evidence so far that IS is providing funding, weapons or other material support to local militants that would alter their capabilities or targeting patterns. What is more plausible is a scenario where a local militant group would carry out an attack and claim it in the name of IS to cause widespread panic and raise the latter's profile. The authorities continue to arrest suspected IS sympathisers and prevent many from leaving the country to fight alongside the group in Iraq and Syria, highlighting that they are cognisant of this evolving threat.

Domestic Islamist militant activity

Other threats

Militant groups operating in the north-east region

Attacks in Asom usually target markets, railway stations, gas pipelines and power-transmission facilities. Militant groups have also operated in Manipur since it was fully integrated into India in 1949. At least 20 such organisations are currently active in the state, where small bombings recur periodically in its capital Imphal. Such groups are also known to operate in areas near the Manipur-Myanmar border. High levels of domestic migration into the state have exacerbated local resentment and fuelled insurgencies. While violence from neighbouring Nagaland has also spilled over into Manipur in the past, the situation in the state has been relatively stable in recent years. A pervasive security force presence and periodic anti-insurgency operations have curtailed the degree of freedom and resources previously enjoyed by insurgent groups.

Naxalite insurgency

KIDNAPPING

SOCIAL UNREST

Communal violence

Unrest in Kashmir valley

Bandhs (shutdown strikes) and demonstrations by separatist groups, opposition parties and disaffected elements over various issues are common, particularly on Fridays.

Statehood protest campaigns

Naxalite-led shutdowns

Social movements

BUSINESSWOMEN

To mitigate these risks, women travellers should employ certain precautions such as:

CONFLICT

Kashmir continues to be a major source of conflict between India and Pakistan, resulting in intermittent escalation in bilateral tensions. The region remains divided between the two countries, with India in control of approximately two-thirds of the territory. The first India-Pakistan war took place in 1947-48. Following that, the two countries fought two wars in 1965 and 1971, and a limited conflict in Kargil in 1999. In the most recent escalation, India carried out an aerial strike in late February 2019 allegedly targeting a terrorist camp in Balakot (Pakistan). The strike was carried out in response to an attack by Pakistan-based militants on a security force convoy on 14 February 2019 in Pulwama district (Kashmir valley). Amid heightened tensions, the two countries temporarily closed parts of their airspace, resulting in notable flight disruption.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Numbers Fire 101 Police 100

Contact International SOS for help with your medical situation.

Country Stability

POLITICAL SITUATION

India is a federal republic with a parliamentary form of government. The president is the constitutional head, but executive power rests with the council of ministers that is headed by the prime minister. Parliament is bicameral, comprising the Rajya Sabha (upper house) and the Lok Sabha (lower house). Major political parties include the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (Congress), though certain regional parties also have national prominence due to their parliamentary seat strength. India has a record of regular elections and peaceful transfers of power. Democratic institutions are generally stable, except for the occasional instability of a few state governments.

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition led by Congress, which secured a second term in 2009 under former prime minister Manmohan Singh, suffered a major setback in the May 2014 parliamentary elections, in which the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won a clear majority to form the government, with Narendra Modi becoming the new prime minister.

Division of power between the federal and state governments is blurred at times. The varying indicators in economic and social development among states suggest that state governments can have a greater influence on their populations than the federal government. However, the union government still exercises considerable influence on states through several financial resources and its authority to assume control of states during times of emergency (also termed as President's Rule). Furthermore, villages across the country have panchayats (elected administrative bodies), though these typically resolve local issues by arbitration and decisions can be challenged in courts.

The 2019 general elections took place in seven phases from 11 April to 19 May to elect the 17th Lok Sabha (lower house). The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won a clear majority, and Narendra Modi remains prime minister for a second term.

RULE OF LAW

The primary responsibility for maintaining public order and law enforcement lies with the police. Each state has a police force that maintains order in townships and rural areas. There are great variations in the implementation of the law across the country, with the police and bureaucracy being widely accused of corruption and politicisation.

The inordinate delays in legal cases and a large backlog of unfinished litigations hinder the dispensation of justice, especially in the conflict areas where there are perceptible deficits in law enforcement and violation of civil rights.

CORRUPTION

Corruption exists at all echelons of society and is especially prevalent in government offices. Expatriates and business travellers see only a small percentage of the endemic corruption in the workplace, partly because their Indian colleagues tend to take care of such details. However, they are likely to experience corruption when dealing with government officials for the various required permits and extensions. In many tourist areas, there are also common police scams soliciting payment for alleged traffic infringements and related 'misdemeanours'.

Corruption levels are generally high in the police, judiciary (especially lower courts) and land administration offices. However, the level of corruption varies from state to state.

NATURAL DISASTERS

Parts of India are vulnerable to natural disasters as the country lies in an active seismic zone and has a large coastline. The east coast is vulnerable to cyclones, especially between April and December, with peaks in May and October. Travellers can monitor the India Meteorological Department's website for the latest cyclone updates.

The monsoon season (June-September) causes heavy flooding in many parts of the country, though north- western and eastern regions are most at risk of severe flooding. Similarly, peninsular India is vulnerable to heavy rainfall-related risks during its north-east monsoon season (October to December). Drainage is poor, including in major cities such as Delhi and Mumbai. Landslides are fairly common in the mountainous regions of the country.

RECENT HISTORY

The assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 by her Sikh bodyguards led to anti-Sikh riots in northern India. Her son, Rajiv Gandhi, became the country's ninth prime minister and was assassinated by a suicide bomber from Sri Lanka's secessionist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 1991, in retaliation for the deployment of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to that country in 1987. In the same year, the Indian armed forces carried out an operation to successfully abort an attempted military coup in Maldives.

The economy's shift towards liberalisation began in the late 1980s, with earnest steps taken in the early 1990s. India joined the World Trade Organization in 1995. Politically, the 1990s heralded the rise of right-wing nationalism and witnessed growing communal violence. In 1992, widespread Hindu-Muslim violence erupted after Hindu extremists demolished the Babri mosque at Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh state). By the mid-1990s, India was tackling insurgencies in Asom, Nagaland, Manipur, Punjab and the Jammu region, Kashmir valley and Ladakh region.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition was defeated in the April-May 2004 election and a Congress-led coalition – United Progressive Alliance (UPA) – assumed power. Manmohan Singh, a key player in the first wave of economic reforms, was made prime minister, while Sonia Gandhi, the Italian-born wife of Rajiv Gandhi, went on to lead Congress as well as the UPA. The Congress-led government returned to power in 2009 for a second five-year term with Singh as prime minister.

The second tenure of the UPA was marred by a series of corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth, resulting in a major defeat in the nine-stage April-May 2014 general elections. The BJP-led NDA won a clear majority and Narendra Modi became the prime minister. The BJP-led NDA again won a clear majority during the 2019 general elections, and Modi retained his position as prime minister.

POLITICAL SITUATION

RULE OF LAW

CORRUPTION

Corruption levels are generally high in the police, judiciary (especially lower courts) and land administration offices. However, the level of corruption varies from state to state.

NATURAL DISASTERS

RECENT HISTORY

British rule ended with India's independence in 1947. The accompanying partition of the country into India and Pakistan led to large-scale communal violence between the country's minority Muslim community and majority non-Muslims (primarily Hindu and Sikhs) that resulted in the killing of at least several hundred thousand people and the creation of approximately 14m refugees. Upon independence, Jawaharlal Nehru, the leader of the Indian National Congress (Congress) party, became the first prime minister, and in January 1950 India adopted a constitution making it a parliamentary republic. In 1975, under Nehru's daughter – also the country's first female prime minister – Indira Gandhi, India was placed under internal emergency. The emergency was lifted in 1977, and during elections held in March of that year, Congress lost power for the first time since independence. The assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 by her Sikh bodyguards led to anti-Sikh riots in northern India. Her son, Rajiv Gandhi, became the country's ninth prime minister and was assassinated by a suicide bomber from Sri Lanka's secessionist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 1991, in retaliation for the deployment of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to that country in 1987. In the same year, the Indian armed forces carried out an operation to successfully abort an attempted military coup in Maldives.

Before You Go

See your doctor and dentist and ensure you are in the best health before you leave. Other preparations:

• Check your routine vaccinations Check your routine vaccinations are up to date (polio; varicella; measles, mumps and rubella; tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, seasonal influenza). See a travel health practitioner 6 to 8 weeks before departure for destination-specific health preparations. You may need additional vaccinations, some of which require several doses, or be recommended malaria medication which may need to be started a week or more before arriving in the malarial country.

• Documentation: Arrange a copy of your personal health record to carry with you when you travel. Include a letter from your doctor explaining your need for all medications you are carrying, including any over-the-counter medications, in English and the language of your destination(s). Make sure you have copies of your prescriptions.

• Medication: Check the regulations of your destination country regarding importation of your medication, as some drugs may be strictly prohibited (especially narcotics and psychotropics) and may result in severe penalties. Take any medicines you require in their original packaging, including any information leaflets, with them clearly labelled with your name (matching your passport name), and your doctor’s name. Have enough to cover the trip, and extra in case of delays, however note that many destinations limit quantities of certain drugs to a 30-day supply. Carry medication in your hand luggage, with copies of your prescriptions.

Vaccinations for India

Recommendations may vary for short-term visitors. Always consult your travel health advisor or contact International SOS to discuss your specific needs.

Oral vaccination is recommended for travellers and relief workers who are likely to encounter

Cholera unsanitary conditions, or will have limited access to safe water. Recommended for all travellers and expatriates, especially groups at higher risk including:

• long-term and frequent visitors. • adventurous travellers who travel to more remote locations or stay in areas with poor

Hepatitis A sanitation. • gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men see (see US CDC). • people who use illicit drugs. • those with liver disease.

Hepatitis B Recommended for all travellers and expatriates. Vaccine is recommended for people who will participate in ‘higher risk' activities while in an area where Japanese encephalitis risk exists.

You are engaging in a ‘higher risk' activity if you:

• Travel during the peak Japanese encephalitis season (consult the “Health Threats” section of the International SOS country guides to see specific season details for this Japanese country). encephalitis • Spend a significant amount of time outdoors, particularly in the evening and night-time, in areas outside of cities. (ex. camping, trekking, biking, fishing, hunting, farming). • Stay in accommodation that will likely have mosquitoes indoors, ex. lacking air conditioning, window screens, and bed nets. • Spend a month or more in a risk area during transmission season.

Japanese encephalitis vaccine is not available in many of the risk countries. Have the complete vaccine series before departure. Resident nationals arriving from Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria are required to show proof of oral polio vaccination to enter India.

Indian nationals who visit these countries are also required to have received oral polio vaccination prior to departure. This is a precautionary measure to prevent reintroduction of polio into India. To satisfy the entry requirements, the vaccine should be given at least four weeks prior to entry to India and within one year of travel. For more information on the polio vaccination requirements and state-wise list of vaccination centres, visit Polio Events/Announcements under Media section of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.

(The above-mentioned recommendations/requirements are as stated by the World Health Organization or the Ministry of Health. However national authorities may differ in how they implement these recommendations. Consult your travel health practitioner for individualised vaccination recommendation 6-8 weeks before your trip and check with the embassy or consulate of your destination.) Consider for certain travellers, especially:

• For expatriates and long-term visitors. • For children who tend to play with animals and may not admit to being bitten or Rabies scratched. • If you are travelling to a location where quality medical care may not be available immediately after being bitten/scratched by an animal. (Unvaccinated people need immunoglobulin within 24 hours of an animal injury, and this medication is scarce in some countries. If you are pre- vaccinated, you do not need this immunoglobulin after an injury.)

• If contact with dogs, monkeys or other potentially rabies-carrying animals is likely.

Jogging increases your risk of dog bite.

Typhoid fever Recommended for all travellers and expatriates. Indian Government requirements for vaccination certificate are complex.

India requires a vaccination certificate for all travellers > 9 months of age arriving by land or sea who:

• are coming from (within the previous six days), or have transited through a country it considers to have a risk of yellow fever transmission (see list below). Travellers who remained in the airport the entire time while transiting through risk countries may be excused from the requirement; exemptions must be approved by the Health Officer. • arrive on a ship that has touched any port in an area considered to have a yellow fever risk in the previous 30 days (unless the ship has been treated with insecticide according to World Health Organization procedures). • arrive on an airplane that has been in an area considered to have a yellow fever risk (unless the aircraft has been treated with insecticide according to World Health Organization procedures).

People without the required certificates will be isolated for up to 6 days.

Yellow fever Indian officials regard these countries as areas with risk of yellow fever transmission:

Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, and Uganda.

Americas: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago (Trinidad only), and Venezuela.

Additions: Any time a country reports a case of yellow fever, India's government then considers it to be a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. •

(Discuss vaccination with your travel health professional well in advance of your trip. The certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and is valid for the life of the traveller. Note that vaccination requirements may change at any time; check with the relevant embassy or consulate for your destination. Occasionally border authorities request a valid vaccination certificate although it may not be required under the official policy.)

More on diseases in India Malaria

Threat from: Bites and Stings Malaria is present in all areas of India with altitude below 2,000 meters (6,562 ft), including Delhi. Risk is higher in northeastern states, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka (except Bangalore) Madhya Pradesh, Maharasthra (except Mumbai, Nagpur, Nasik and Pune), Orissa and West Bengal (except Kolkata).

There is no risk of malaria in areas of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Sikkim with altitude above 2,000 m.

Prevention:

• mosquito bite avoidance • medication: consult your travel health doctor for an individual recommendation. Some authorities recommend preventive medication if visiting the risk areas

Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes that usually bite from dusk to dawn. Symptoms can develop as early as seven days or as late as several months after exposure. Early malaria symptoms are flu-like and can include fever, sweats/chills, head and body aches, and generally feeling tired and unwell. People also sometimes feel nauseous and vomit or have diarrhoea. Untreated, malaria can cause serious complications like anaemia, seizures, mental confusion, kidney failure and coma. It can be fatal.

Follow the ABCDEs to minimise malarial risk:

A: Awareness - Be Aware of the risk, the symptoms and malaria prevention. B: Bite Prevention - Avoid being Bitten by mosquitoes, especially between dusk and dawn. C: Chemoprophylaxis - If prescribed for you, use Chemoprophylaxis (antimalarial medication) to prevent infection and if infected reduce the risk of severe malaria. D: Diagnosis - Immediately seek Diagnosis and treatment if a fever develops one week or more after being in a malarial area (up to one year after departure). E: Emergency - Carry an Emergency Standby Treatment (EST) kit if available and recommended (this is the kit which contains malaria treatment). Zika Virus

Threat from: Bites and Stings Zika may be present in India. Several states have recorded sporadic activity and low level transmission may be ongoing.

In 2017, the first Zika cases were confirmed in Gujarat state, from blood samples collected since early 2016. Rajasthan recorded significant activity in 2018. There is also research evidence of Zika exposure to the human population in India in 1954. Zika fever is a viral disease, mostly transmitted to people by mosquito bites, but also from one person to another through sexual contact. Symptoms can be mild and include fever, rash, muscle and joint pains, red eyes (conjunctivitis). However, infection during pregnancy can cause severe complications, including miscarriage and permanent birth defects (congenital Zika syndrome). No specific treatment or vaccine is available.

Prevent infection through mosquito bite avoidance. Prevent sexual transmission through condom use or abstinence. Pregnant women should prevent sexual transmission throughout their pregnancy. People considering pregnancy may be advised to continue to prevent sexual transmission for several months after they have left a risk area. For more information see the article "Zika virus" in the "Disease & Prevention" dropdown on International SOS Location Guides.

Standard of Care

Emergency Response

Always try to call International SOS whenever medical care or advice is required, especially in emergencies.

Public ambulances are not recommended. They are not supported by trained staff.

Use ambulance services from private hospitals. They respond faster and are generally better equipped. But their services are limited to transferring patients between home and hospital and not from one hospital to another. In major cities, doctors may accompany critical patients in the ambulance.

Emergency Numbers Fire 101 Police 100

Standard of Health Care

Let International SOS assist you.

International SOS will assist you to find the best available emergency, inpatient or outpatient care, will provide language assistance, may be able to pay your medical expenses, and will assist with evacuation when required.

Inpatient care

Medical care in India varies from near international standard in major cities to limited or no health services in outlying areas.

In major cities, selected private hospitals and facilities offer a high standard of medical care. However, sometimes communicating with medical staff can be unnerving for those unfamiliar with the style of patient care in the country.

Public hospitals are not recommended as they may have poor hygiene standards, be overcrowded and lack the appropriate medical equipment and infrastructure for appropriate management of critical patients.

Serious medical conditions may require international evacuation, often to Singapore or Bangkok.

OutPatient Care

Selected private outpatient clinics in the major cities provide good quality general practice and specialist care.

Paying for Health Care

Payment is expected at the time of service; ask for an estimate of the costs beforehand.

Do not defer medical treatment because of financial concerns. Contact International SOS, and if our terms allow, we will make financial arrangements on your behalf.

Dental Care

Selected private clinics in the larger cities provide high-quality dental care. Elsewhere the standard of dental care is inconsistent or low.

Blood Supplies

Blood supply is not consistently screened across the country and maybe considered unsafe.

Even in areas where the blood supply is considered safe, it's best to avoid blood transfusions if possible. Screening cannot detect every blood-borne disease, and immune reactions can vary from minor to life- threatening. If a blood transfusion is recommended and circumstances permit, seek a second opinion from International SOS or your health advisor.

Medication Availability

Use reputed private pharmacies in the major cities or the pharmacies associated with large private hospitals. They stock a wide range of medications.

Some medications and preparations are not legally available in India, including the antimalarial medication Malarone®.

Since brand names vary, know the generic (chemical) names of your medications. It is always advisable to bring an adequate supply of prescription and other medications from your home country. Check the expiration date on all medications.

Clinics & Hospitals

Medical Providers No matter where you are, contact International SOS first if you are sick, injured or need medical advice.

Our medical staff will advise you, help you select the correct doctor, hospital or clinic, and make any necessary appointments on your behalf. If our terms allow, we will also make financial arrangements for you.

It is recommended that you contact International SOS before accessing medical care in India

Hospitals / Clinics If you are unable to contact International SOS, the following list of hospitals and clinics is provided in case of medical emergencies. Bangalore Columbia Asia Hospital - Hebbal Category: Hospital Address: Columbia Asia Medical Center - Hebbal Kirloskar Business Park Bellary Road, Hebbal Bangalore, Karnataka 560024 Telephone: 91 91 80 4179 1000

Fortis Hospitals Limited- Bannarghatta Category: Hospital Address: 154/9, Bannerghatta Road Opp Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Karnataka 560076 Telephone: 91 8066214444 Manipal Hospital Category: Hospital Address: 98 Rustom Bagh Airport Road Bangalore, Karnatka 560017 Telephone: 91 080 4011 9000. Kolkata Apollo Gleneagles Hospital Category: Hospital Address: 58 Canal Circular Road Kolkata, West Bengal 700054 Telephone: 91 3 32320 3040/2122/ 3366284444 Chennai Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd Category: Hospital Address: 21, Greams Lane off Greams Road Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006 Telephone: 91 91 044 2829 3333

91 044 28296569 Global Health City Category: Hospital Address: 439, Cheran Nagar, Perumbakkam Chennai, Tamilnadu 600100 Telephone: 91 44 4477 7000 MIOT Hospitals Category: Hospital Address: 4/112, Mount Poonamalle Road Manapakkam Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600089 Telephone: 91 044 2249 2288 91 044 4200 2288

Hyderabad Apollo Health City Category: Hospital Address: Jubilee Hills Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh 500033 Telephone: 91 040-23607777 / 23554563 Mumbai Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre (Inpatient) Category: Hospital Address: A-791 Bandra Reclamation, Bandra (West) Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050 Telephone: 91 022 2656 8000 91 022 2656 8000 Extn: 1660

91 022 2675 1000

91 22 26568089 / 26568080 / 81

91 26568354

91 26751000 Extn: 1660

Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre (Outpatient) Category: Hospital Address: A-791 Bandra Reclamation, Bandra (West) Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050 Telephone: 91 022 2675 1000 91 022 2675 8000

91 022-26568050 / 26568051 / 26561628

91 022-26751628/1629

91 26751000 Extn: 1660

New Delhi Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital Category: Hospital Address: Sector -B, Pocket 1 Aruna Asaf Ali Marg Vasant Kunj New Delhi, Delhi 110070 Telephone: 91 11 42 77 6222 Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals Category: Hospital Address: Sarita Vihar Delhi Mathura Road New Delhi, Delhi 110076 Telephone: 91 11 29871084 / 85 ;11 26925858/ 26925801 Max Super Speciality Hospital - East Block Category: Hospital Address: Max Devki Devi Heart & Vascular Institute 2 Press Enclave Road Saket New Delhi, Delhi 110017 Telephone: 91 11 26515050

Food & Water

Food and Water Precautions

Travellers have a small risk of developing diarrhoea in any country. It may be advisable to drink bottled water only, especially on short trips. Always wash your hands with soap before eating, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. See the following country-specific recommendations:

Water and Beverages

Tap water is unsafe.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water or carbonated drinks. • Avoid ice, as it may have been made from unsterile water.

Food Risk

Food-borne illness is common. To reduce your risk:

• Food served in larger hotels and well-known restaurants should be safe. • Busier restaurants may be safer as they are more likely to serve freshly cooked food. • Always choose food that has been freshly cooked and is served hot. • Avoid food that has been stored warm – such as in a “bain marie.” • Avoid raw foods, shellfish, pre-peeled fruit and salad. • Fruit that you wash and peel yourself is safe. • Avoid street vendors and market food because the standard of hygiene may be low and food may not be fresh.

More on food and water safety Health Threats Summary

Health threats present include:

Animals: Anthrax, Hantaviruses, Leptospirosis, Rabies

Bites and Stings: Chikungunya, Crimean-Congo Fever (CCHF), Dengue fever, Filariasis, Japanese encephalitis, Kyasanur Forest Disease, Leishmaniasis, Malaria, Scrub typhus, Zika virus

Coughing/sneezing: Tuberculosis (TB)

Environment: Air Pollution, Altitude

Food and/or water: Cholera, Hepatitis A, Nipah virus, Travellers' diarrhoea, Typhoid fever

Sex/blood/needles: HIV, Hepatitis B and C, & STIs

Swimming/bathing: Schistosomiasis

Health Threats

Air Pollution | Threat from : Environment

Poor air quality, also known as "haze", "smog" and "air pollution", can negatively impact one's health. Some groups are especially vulnerable to problems caused by polluted air. These include children, the elderly and anyone with underlying chronic health problems such as heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis or asthma.

The chemicals in polluted air can affect the lungs resulting in wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and even pain. Polluted air can also irritate the eyes and nose, and may interfere with immune system function. Long-term exposure can result in reduced lung function, particularly in children. It can also lead to lung cancer.

Limiting exposure to polluted air is the best way to prevent health problems. When air quality is poor, it may be advisable to avoid outdoor physical activities. While indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and use an air conditioner on ‘recirculate' if possible. If the air quality is frequently problematic, consider using an air cleaner. During particularly bad periods, you may want to wear a mask while outside. Ask your healthcare provider before using a mask, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

See the International SOS Air Pollution website - use your membership number to log in.

India

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) air pollution is a major cause of disease and death in the country. All major cities are affected. Rapid industrialisation and ongoing construction projects, agricultural waste burning and motor vehicle emissions are major contributors to pollution. Ambient air quality is routinely monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPPB) and some other agencies and real time updates are published.

Altitude | Threat from : Environment

Altitude illness is a potentially fatal condition that can affect people who normally live at a low altitude and travel to a higher altitudes. It can occur from elevations of 1,500 meters onwards, but is more common at elevations above 2,500 meters (8000 feet).

People most at risk are those who have experienced altitude illness before, people who have heart or lung problems and people under the age of 50. There are three different types of altitude illness: Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). AMS is the most common and mild form of altitude illness. HACE and HAPE are more severe. HACE is a medical emergency and if not treated and managed quickly, can result in coma and death. Management of altitude illnesses involves immediate descent and oxygen treatment. Most people who are affected, even those who develop HACE or HAPE, recover completely if moved to a lower elevation. There are medicines that can be administered by trained medical professionals.

Anyone travelling to high altitude, especially higher than 2,500 meters, should be aware of and recognise the symptoms of altitude illness. See your travel health professional before departure, for individual advice on preventive measures, especially if you have ever suffered altitude sickness in the past, or if you have an underlying medical condition.

Anthrax | Threat from : Animals

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It most commonly occurs in hoofed mammals, though humans can also become infected. The serious forms of human anthrax are cutaneous anthrax, inhalation anthrax and intestinal anthrax.

Symptoms of anthrax are different depending on the mode of infection. Generally, symptoms develop within seven days of exposure.

Cutaneous anthrax is a skin infection and accounts for 95% of all naturally-occurring anthrax infections. The main risk factor is contact with animal hides or hair, bone products, and wool. The disease can also be spread through contact with infected animals. Hence, the populations most at risk for anthrax include farm workers, veterinarians, and tannery and wool workers.

Bacteria infects a person through cuts or abrasions on their skin. An itchy skin lesion, similar to an insect bite, then develops - usually within two weeks of exposure. This lesion may later blister and then break down, resulting in a black ulcer. The ulcer is frequently painless but surrounded by significant swelling. Sometimes painful lymph nodes may develop. Often, a scab forms, then dries and falls off within two weeks. In 20 percent of untreated individuals, the infection may spread through the bloodstream and become fatal. However, death is extremely rare among individuals who receive appropriate treatment.

Initial symptoms of inhalation anthrax infection may resemble a common cold. After several days, the symptoms may progress to severe breathing problems and shock. Inhalation anthrax is often fatal.

Intestinal anthrax may follow the consumption of contaminated food and is characterized by acute inflammation of the intestinal tract. Initial signs of this disease are nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting and fever. These are followed by abdominal pain, vomiting of blood and severe diarrhea.

Direct person-to-person spread of anthrax is extremely unlikely; it may not even be possible. Therefore, there is no need to immunize or treat people who have been in contact with infected people unless they also were also exposed to the same source of infection (usually, a sick animal).

People who have been exposed to anthrax can take antibiotics to prevent infection. It is necessary to treat anthrax infections early; a delay lessens chances for survival. Anthrax usually is susceptible to penicillin, doxycycline and fluoroquinolones.

An anthrax vaccine can also prevent infection. Vaccination against anthrax is not recommended for the general public and is not available.

India

Human cases of anthrax are reported annually, predominantly linked to eating infected beef.

Chikungunya | Threat from : Bites and Stings

People can get chikungunya if they are bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus. About four to seven days later, the infected person develops a sudden fever and severe joint pain. Pain is especially common in the knees, ankles, small joints (especially in hands and feet) and any previously injured area. Other common symptoms are a rash and headache.

There is no specific cure for the disease. Recovery takes several weeks.

There is no vaccine. The only way to prevent chikungunya is to prevent mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long pants, and use insect repellents to prevent mosquito bites.

India

Chikungunya is present across major cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata. Large number of cases are reported from the states of Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. There is risk of co-infection with the dengue virus.

Cholera | Threat from : Food and/or water

Cholera is a diarrhoeal disease. People get sick when they consume food or water that has been contaminated by the faeces of an infected person. The most common symptom is severe diarrhoea. It is painless and watery (often called "rice-water" stools). Vomiting is also common.

Most cholera infections are relatively mild. People recover on their own by keeping well-hydrated. About 10-20 percent of all infected people will suffer severe illness, which can cause life-threatening dehydration. These cases are treated with oral and/or intravenous fluid replacement and antibiotics.

Most travellers have a low risk of cholera, as following food and water precautions is usually sufficient to prevent the disease.

Healthcare and relief workers who travel to areas of cholera outbreaks and have limited access to safe water are at higher risk. They should consider vaccination against cholera.

Crimean-Congo Fever (CCHF) | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral disease that affects animals and humans. It is transmitted to humans by an infected tick bite or upon direct contact with infected animals, patients or infected tissues. Symptoms occur within two to twelve days of exposure to infection. The illness presents with fever, chills, head ache, body ache and haemorrhage (bleeding). Continued bleeding leads to shock and death about 10 days after symptoms begin. Around half of all infected people die. If the patient survives, recovery is long and slow.

Risk to travellers is low. High risk groups include agricultural workers, healthcare workers, military personnel and people who camp in rural areas. There is no vaccine against CCHF. To prevent tick bites, wear long sleeves and long pants, and use insect repellents.

Dengue fever | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Dengue, or "break-bone" fever, is a viral disease of the tropics and sub-tropics. It is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes that bite during the daytime and are found in and around human habitation. Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. A rash often follows. The acute illness can last up to ten days, but complete recovery can take two to four weeks.

Occasionally, a potentially fatal form of dengue called severe dengue (previously known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or DHF) occurs. Severe dengue is mostly seen in persons who have been previously infected with dengue - the fatality rate is about 2.5%.

Prevention is through preventing mosquito bites. A dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, is available in several countries however it is not recommended for people who have never had dengue infection. It should only be used in people who have previously been infected with dengue. Hence, travellers who have already had the disease or are seropositive and planning to visit areas with high transmission can consider vaccination in consultation with a travel health specialist.

India

Dengue fever risk is present throughout India, including most metropolitan cities and towns.

Filariasis | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Filariasis is a parasitic disease, also sometimes called "elephantiasis". It is caused by microscopic, thread-like worms that are spread via mosquito bites. Larvae enter the skin when a person is bitten, then travel to the lymph nodes, where they develop into adult worms. The adult worms reproduce (creating microfilaria) then migrate further in the tissues and circulate in the blood causing a variety of symptoms.

Initial symptoms include skin redness and swollen lymph nodes in the arms and legs. Headache, weakness, muscles pain, coughing, wheezing and fever are also common.

People who are repeatedly bitten by mosquitoes over several months or years are at risk. Thus, short-term travelers are at low risk. Nevertheless, all travelers should prevent insect bites.

India

Lymphatic filariasis is endemic in at least 250 districts in 20 states or union territories. Higher prevalence is seen in Bihar, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Orissa and West Bengal.

Hantaviruses | Threat from : Animals

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that belong to the bunyaviridae family. They can cause two different types of illness in humans: hemorrhagic fever with renal failure syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The latter also known as hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). It is a widely distributed disease and occurs across Americas, Europe and Asia.

Regardless of which illness they cause, hantaviruses are carried by infected rodents that can carry the virus for their entire lives without any signs of illness. Virus is present in the animal's saliva, urine and feces. Humans become sick when they inhale the aerosol droplets of these excretions. Rare cases of human to human transmission have occurred.

Although not clearly known, symptoms of HCPS appear about one to eight weeks after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. About 50 percent of all patients also experience headache, dizziness, and abdominal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain). Late symptoms are cough/shortness of breath and a feeling of overall tightness in the chest. Heartbeat and breathing may both become rapid at this stage. Most people recover from the disease. The overall case fatality rate is about 30 percent, and most deaths occur rapidly - within 24 hours of hospitalization.

The incubation period for HFRS is usually 2 to 4 weeks, but could be as short as a few days. Patients usually experience a fever that begins suddenly, headache, muscle pain, gastrointestinal upset, eye pain and blurred vision. Patients may later develop hemorrhage, including bleeding from the skin, conjunctiva of the eye, and mouth. complications include kidney failure. Most patients fully recover. The overall mortality ranges from 5-15 percent, depending on the strain of the virus.

The best way to avoid infection is to eliminate rodents from your living space and worksite, and/or avoid contact with them. Keep food tightly contained, clean dishes immediately after use, do not leave pet food out all day, and seal holes to the outside – generally, make your environment inhospitable to rodents. When in an area known to be infested with rodents, avoid activities that can stir up dust, like vacuuming or sweeping, as there may be virus- containing rodent feces, urine, or saliva present. Do not sit in meadows, on haystacks, or woodpiles where rodents are likely to nest.

Treatment is supportive. Ribavirin has improved the chances of surviving HFRS although its effectiveness has not been proven in HCPS. A vaccine is available to protect against certain viruses that cause HFRS, most especially those that are prevalent in mainland China.

India

Human cases of hantavirus are reported occasionally.

Hepatitis A | Threat from : Food and/or water

Hepatitis A is a viral disease that causes liver inflammation. The virus is present in the faeces of an infected person. It spreads through contaminated food and water, and is common in areas with poor sanitation. Person-to- person spread also occurs, when the virus is inadvertently transferred into the mouth, including during sexual activity. People at higher risk of infection include men who have sex with men, illicit drug users and people with liver disease.

Symptoms begin on average 28 days after exposure (range 2 to 8 weeks), and include fever, chills, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dark urine and jaundice (yellow colour of the skin and eyes). Many infected people suffer only a mild illness. Most cases recover fully after four or more weeks. However for some, the disease can be severe, and occasionally is fatal. There is no specific treatment and cases are managed through supportive therapy.

Prevention is through vaccination, attention to hygiene, and access to safe food and water.

HIV, Hepatitis B and C, & STIs | Threat from : Sex/blood/needles

HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are spread by contact with bodily fluids (especially blood and semen).

• unprotected sex, • needle sharing during IV drug use, or • unsafe blood or medical/dental instruments.

Genital herpes (HSV), genital warts (HPV), gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis and most other sexually transmitted diseases are spread by genital contact.

Prevention:

• In many countries, hepatitis B is now a routine childhood immunisation and need not be repeated. All non-immune travellers should consider vaccination. • Always use new condoms (preferably brought from your home country). • IV drug users should not share needles. • Avoid having tattoos or piercings done. • In healthcare settings, make sure that needles and syringes sterile and not shared between patients. • Call International SOS or your corporate medical department if you are hospitalised. • Be aware of your risk when assisting anyone with an injury. Protect yourself from contact with bodily fluids. • Seek medical attention within 24 hours if you accidentally come into contact with someone else's bodily fluids.

Japanese encephalitis | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Japanese encephalitis is serious viral illness, spread by mosquitoes. It occurs in most of Asia as well as some parts of the Western Pacific, mostly in rural agricultural areas. Although many people won't have any symptoms, it can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) with permanent brain damage, or be fatal. Prevention is through preventing mosquito bites. In addition, vaccination is recommended for travellers at higher risk.

India

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is consistently present in most parts of India. JE activity has been reported in 26 states or union territories.

States that repeatedly report transmission include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal. Other regions that have reported cases sporadically include Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab and Uttarakhand. Although cases are reported throughout the year, the risk of infection is highest in monsoon season (May to October).

Kyasanur Forest Disease | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is caused by viruses which belong to the Flaviviridae group. KFD is spread through the bite of an infected tick. It can also be transmitted to humans after contact with an infected animal.

Symptoms usually start 3-8 days after a tick bite and include fever, chills and headache. Severe muscle pains accompanied by cough, vomiting, dehydration and bleeding problems often occur after a few days. Complications include encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Recovery can often take many months.

There is a vaccine but no specific treatment is available.

India

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is endemic in parts of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Cases have been reported in Goa and Maharashtra. The disease risk is higher between November and June.

Leishmaniasis | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a parasite that can infect humans, dogs, rodents and other small animals. It is transmitted by sandflies that bite mainly between dusk and dawn and can occur in both rural and urban environments. Sandflies breed quickly in unsanitary conditions, and the spread of the disease is exacerbated by war, chronic food shortages and urbanisation activities like deforestation and building of dams and irrigation systems, changes in temperature, heavy rainfall and population movement. The disease can manifest in one of the three forms, cutaneous (is the most common form and causes skin ulcers), mucocutaneous (is a rare form which affects the inner parts of the nose and mouth) or visceral (which is the more severe form and can lead to death).There is no vaccine or drug to prevent leishmaniasis.

Prevention The only way to avoid leishmaniasis is to prevent sandfly bites.

• Minimise outdoor activities from dusk to dawn--this is when sand flies are most active. • Use protective clothing and insect repellent. • Consider using an insecticide treated bed net with fine mesh if there are sandflies in your living quarters. The standard bed nets used to prevent malaria are not effective, as sandflies are about one-third the size of mosquitoes and can fly through the malaria nets. • Note that sandflies are small and do not make noise while flying. This makes it difficult to determine whether they are in your environment. Their bites cause mild symptoms and might not be noticed.

India

The disease is especially prevalent in the foothills of Uttaranchal and Bihar.

Leptospirosis | Threat from : Animals

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that infects animals and, less commonly, humans. Animals can excrete the bacteria in their urine, contaminating water and soil. People can get the disease via contact with that soil or water.

Left untreated, the disease can cause kidney, liver, heart and respiratory problems as well as meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord). Leptospirosis is sometimes fatal. It can be treated with antibiotic medications.

To prevent leptospirosis, think about water safety when swimming, bathing, boating or wading. Avoid water that might be contaminated with animal urine. If you're unsure if water is contaminated, and you cannot avoid contact with it, wear protective clothing and footwear.

IndiaLeptospirosis exists year round, however the risk increases during the monsoon season.

Malaria | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Follow the ABCDEs to minimise malarial risk:

India

Malaria is present in all areas of India with altitude below 2,000 meters (6,562 ft), including Delhi. Risk is higher in northeastern states, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka (except Bangalore) Madhya Pradesh, Maharasthra (except Mumbai, Nagpur, Nasik and Pune), Orissa and West Bengal (except Kolkata).

There is no risk of malaria in areas of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Sikkim with altitude above 2,000 m.

Prevention:

• mosquito bite avoidance • medication: consult your travel health doctor for an individual recommendation. Some authorities recommend preventive medication if visiting the risk areas

Nipah virus | Threat from : Food and/or water

Nipah is an emerging virus that is not yet thoroughly understood. It can cause severe or fatal illness in humans. The virus's natural host is fruit bats, which can carry it without becoming ill. These bats can spread the virus to other animals - including dogs, cats, horses, and pigs. People get infected through direct contact with infected bats, animals or other people who have the virus. Animals can also contaminate fruit or unpasturized juice. (Some past outbreaks have been linked to date palm fruit and juice.) Nipah virus infections vary. Some people show no symptoms, or develop a flu-like illness with fever, headache and muscle pain. However, it can progress to cause severe illness with pneumonia or encephalitis (swelling of the brain.) People can become drowsy, disoriented and suffer convulsions and coma. Between 40 to 75 percent of people who develop symptoms die of the disease. There is no treatment for Nipah virus, nor is there a vaccine to prevent it. Minimise risk of infection by selecting safer food and water, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding contact with animals and their environment. Avoid contact with sick people.

Rabies | Threat from : Animals

Rabies is a viral disease contracted when bitten or scratched by an infected (rabid) animal, often a dog. Once it enters the body, the virus travels along nerves and causes paralysis. As it reaches important organs like the spinal cord and the brain, it causes coma and death.

In countries where rabies is present in animals or bats, ALL animal / bat bites, scratches and licks to broken skin must be treated seriously. Rabies vaccination is very effective in preventing rabies, even after a bite/scratch by a rabid animal.

Rabies vaccination Pre-exposure vaccination is often recommended for expatriates and long-term visitors to destinations where rabies is present. It's especially recommended if quality medical care may not be available after being bitten or scratched by an animal. Pre-exposure treatment can be especially useful for children, since they may not tell their parents that they have been bitten/scratched.

Pre-exposure vaccination makes it easier to treat a bite or scratch. That's important because some types of rabies treatment can be in short supply in many countries, even in cities.

If bitten, scratched or licked (on broken skin) by an animal:

• Immediately cleanse the wound with soap and water and a povidone-iodine solution if available. • Seek medical advice from a qualified source or your assistance company. • Notify local health authorities immediately. You may need post-exposure vaccination, even if you have had pre-exposure vaccination. (THIS CAN BE LIFE SAVING.)

IndiaRabies is a serious concern. Pre-exposure vaccination should be administered in your home country and is recommended for travelers who will be in India for more than 30 days as well as those visiting remote areas of India for any period of time.

Schistosomiasis | Threat from : Swimming/bathing

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is a disease caused by parasitic worms that live in freshwater lakes, rivers and rice paddies. It can penetrate the skin of persons who are wading, swimming, bathing or washing in contaminated water. There is no vaccine.

To prevent infection:

• Avoid swimming or wading in fresh water in countries where schistosomiasis occurs. • Using soap during bathing reduces the risk of infection, as does a vigorous rubdown with a towel immediately after contact with contaminated water. Do not rely on these methods to prevent schistosomiasis. • Heat bath water for five minutes at 50°C (122°F). • Water held in a storage tank for at least 48 hours should be safe.

IndiaLow risk exists in southern India. The disease is found particularly in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Avoid swimming or bathing in the Ganges.

Scrub typhus | Threat from : Bites and Stings

The bacterial disease scrub typhus is also known as tropical typhus or "chigger fever". Humans become infected when bitten by disease-carrying mites. A lump develops at the bite site. It ulcerates and forms an eschar (like a cigarette burn). Glands near the bite swell. Sudden onset symptoms progress, including high fever, headaches and sore muscles. About a third of those infected develop a rash.

Complications, such as pneumonia and nervous system impairment, can occur. Treatment with timely appropriate antibiotics will cure the disease. Untreated, mortality can be as high as 30 percent. No vaccine is available. Prevent infection by avoiding mite habitats (such as rodent infested areas, recently cleared forests clearings and rice paddies) and by preventing mite bites.

Travellers' diarrhoea | Threat from : Food and/or water

Travellers' diarrhoea is the most common travel-related illness. It usually occurs within the first week away from home. It is spread through contaminated food and water.

Prevention is through choosing safe food and water, and paying attention to hygiene. Select food that is thoroughly cooked while fresh and served hot. Avoid undercooked or raw meat, fish or shellfish. Avoid salad and raw vegetables unless you can wash them with clean (treated) water and you peel them yourself.

Unless you are certain that the tap water is drinkable - choose bottled water and beverages, avoid ice.

India

All travellers to India are at a high risk of developing travellers' diarrhoea. Risk is minimised by eating in first class hotels and drinking bottled (purified) water. Swimming and bathing may be unsafe in untreated waters.

Tuberculosis (TB) | Threat from : Coughing/sneezing

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial disease. The bacteria can be coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person. Most people who contract TB have had prolonged, close, exposure to an infected person. This means they have spent days or weeks – not just a few hours – sharing the same air space with an infected person (e.g. living in the same house). People who work or live in institutions such as nursing homes or correctional facilities are also at higher risk.

Active TB causes a variety of symptoms that are sometimes vague, but often include cough, fever, night sweats, unintended weight loss and lethargy. Latent (inactive) TB causes no symptoms. Most strains of TB can be treated with antimicrobial drugs. Up to four different types of medicines may be used together to treat a patient. If left untreated, active TB can be life-threatening.

Some forms of TB have become resistant to drugs (MDR TB), and some forms are extensively resistant to drugs (XDR TB). These diseases are hard to treat. People sometimes contract MDR or XDR TB through direct contact with a person who is already infected. Or, in other cases, people with more traditional TB infections develop a drug-resistant strains. This can happen if anti-TB medication is used inappropriately or stopped too soon.

Many countries where TB is common will routinely give the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine against tuberculosis to babies or children. The BCG vaccine protects these children against severe TB. If you live in an area with higher rates of TB infection, you may also consider vaccinating children up to 16 years old if you plan to live there for 3 months or more.

Travellers and expatriates may be able to reduce their chance of contracting TB by limiting the amount of time they spend in crowded places. Avoiding people who are coughing also minimises risk. Consider TB screening of local staff who live with you – especially if you have young children in your household.

India

The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated India a "high burden country" for tuberculosis. The country falls in the ”moderate incidence” range for tuberculosis as per WHO. Moderate incidence range is between 50 to 299 new cases each year per 100,000 population. WHO has also designated India a "high burden country" for multi-drug resistance tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) was first reported in July 2007. BCG vaccination is given at birth and is included in the country's immunization schedule. Expatriates or frequent travellers should consider consulting their doctor as TB screening may be offered.

Typhoid fever | Threat from : Food and/or water

Typhoid fever is a serious infection caused by a type of salmonella bacteria spread by contaminated food or water. Choosing safe food and water will greatly reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Symptoms usually begin one to three weeks after exposure. Although typhoid fever is often called a diarrheal disease, some patients do not have diarrhea. Persistent, high fever is typical. Other early symptoms are flu-like: body aches and pains, weakness, loss of appetite and a continuous dull headache. A rash with pink spots may appear on the chest and abdomen of some patients. In severe cases, perforation of the bowel can cause severe bleeding or infection in the abdomen, which can be fatal.

Typhoid is cured with antibiotic treatment. Preventive vaccinations are available.

India

Thousands of cases are reported each year mostly between the months of July and October. Since 2004, the country has been reporting an increase in drug resistant typhoid infections.

Zika virus | Threat from : Bites and Stings

Zika fever is a viral disease, mostly transmitted to people by mosquito bites, but also from one person to another through sexual contact. Symptoms can be mild and include fever, rash, muscle and joint pains, red eyes (conjunctivitis). However, infection during pregnancy can cause severe complications, including miscarriage and permanent birth defects (congenital Zika syndrome). No specific treatment or vaccine is available.

India

Zika may be present in India. Several states have recorded sporadic activity and low level transmission may be ongoing.

Getting There

METHOD OF ARRIVAL By air

Most major cities, including the capital Delhi, Mumbai (Maharashtra state), Bangalore (Karnataka state) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu state), Kolkata (West Bengal state), Ahmedabad (Gujarat state), and Cochin (Kerala state) have international airports. Major international airports in the country are: Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM, also known as Sahar International Airport), Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Bangalore's Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Chennai International Airport (MAA) and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad. Domestic airports are located in the vicinity of the international airports. Delays or cancellations of flights as a result of fog are common during the winter season, which lasts from December to February.

Security is generally stringent; armed police patrol airports and all baggage is checked. Hold luggage is screened prior to check-in and hand-luggage is X-rayed once immigration formalities have been finalised. Female and male travellers are required to pass through security using separate lanes; ensure that your boarding card is stamped on each side of the perforation once you have been checked with a hand-held metal detector. Travellers should make sure that all hand luggage is labelled and stamped by security before boarding their flight; labels are available at check-in desks. Further security checks may take place immediately prior to boarding, so arrive at your boarding gate early.

Airlines have variable security standards. You may wish to consult the European Commission's website for a list of airlines banned within the EU and the US Federal Aviation Administration's website for a database of aviation accidents and statistics.

By land

There are efficient Thar Express and Samjhauta Express train services connecting India and Pakistan. However, there is a risk of militants targeting these services; explosions in February 2007 occurred on the Samjhauta Express. It is also possible to use the Wagah (Punjab state)-Attari (Pakistan) border crossing, but a separate vehicle has to be arranged on each side of the border and travellers must walk across the actual boundary. The Delhi-Lahore (Pakistan) bus service is unsuitable for business travel.

By sea

Several luxury cruise liners from all over the world dock at main ports such as Mumbai, Margao (Goa state), Chennai and Kochi (Kerala state) between October and March. Entry & Departure Requirements Passport and visa requirements are subject to change and vary depending on the length of stay and visa type (business or tourist). Check with your travel advisor, embassy or consulate in your home country. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required Australia Yes Yes No United Kingdom Yes Yes No Canada Yes Yes No Europe Yes Yes No United States Yes Yes No

The table and information below is intended as a guide. Visa related regulations can change with little or no notice. Furthermore, the complexity of visa related regulations often leaves the process open to the interpretation of local immigration officials who may apply the regulations differently. Travellers should therefore check with the respective government embassies or representative offices and travel agencies prior to departure.

Visas

All nationals, except those of Nepal and Bhutan, require a visa to enter India (though Nepalese nationals require a visa if entering the country from China). Nationals of Maldives do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days, if visiting the country for tourism purpose. Travellers from countries on this list can obtain a 30-day single-entry e-visa; all others should obtain a visa before arriving in the country. E-tourist visa applications need to be made at least four days prior to the date of arrival. The visa costs $60 and nationals would be required to apply on the government website along with the required fees.

The e-visa is valid for entry through 16 designated airports at: Ahmedabad (Gujarat state), Amritsar (Punjab state), Bangalore (Karnataka state), Chennai (Tamil Nadu state), the capital Delhi, Gaya (Bihar state), Goa, Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh/Telangana states), Jaipur (Rajasthan state), Kochi (Cochin, Kerala state), Kolkata (West Bengal state), Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh state), Mumbai (Maharashtra state), Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), Tiruchi (Tamil Nadu) and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh). Tourists can use the e-visa for a maximum of two visits in a year. Tourist visas, with validities ranging from one to six months, are available for single or multiple entries. They can neither be extended nor converted, barring urgent cases, when a clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs can be sought. Visitors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Iraq, Maldives, Pakistan and Sudan travelling on a tourist visa cannot enter India within two months of their last departure from the country. In case a traveller needs to revisit India within this two month period, they will be required to submit an application at the Indian diplomatic mission in their native country.

Foreign tourists arriving in groups of four or more and sponsored by a Ministry of Tourism-approved travel agency are granted a multiple-entry group visa on arrival for a period not exceeding 60 days. Visitors are required to fill an online application form to avail this facility. In addition, a complete list of travellers along with printed visa application and itinerary have to be submitted to the Foreigner's Regional Registration Office (FRRO) at least 72 hours before arrival.

Travellers seeking a business visa will have to produce valid travel documents along with a re-entry permit, if required under the law of the nationality of the applicant. Furthermore, they must submit proof of their financial standing and documentation in support of intended business visit to India. Business visas may be valid for three months to one year or more with single or multiple entries. Transit visas are issued to foreign nationals who need to enter the country en route to other destinations. It is generally valid for a single or double entry within 15 days of the date of issue; a transit visa can only be used for direct transit and is valid for a maximum period of three days.

The visa application process is straightforward, albeit time-consuming. As a result, it is advised to organise the visa at least a week before travel and consider using an agency to undertake the paperwork.

Prices of visas vary from country to country. Foreigners should contact the Indian embassy in the relevant country to ascertain the cost. Application forms must be filled in completely and with as much detail as possible, otherwise the application may be rejected. An exit visa will be required to leave the country if a passport is lost or stolen.

Certain parts of the country are designated protected or restricted areas that require special permits and, in some cases, prior government authorisation to visit. Travellers should indicate their intent to travel to a specific restricted region when applying for a visa and a permit will be granted to visit that region only. An additional form must be completed. Passengers are advised to check with the tourist board for up-to-date information before departure. A list of protected/restricted areas can be found on the Bureau of Immigration's website.

Entry/Exit requirements

A passport with at least 180 days of validity and two blank pages is required by all foreign nationals. Foreigners must fill in their disembarkation/embarkation cards on arrival/departure. Travellers can bring any amount of foreign exchange into India, though they are required to declare it on arrival via the Currency Declaration Form if the total amount of foreign exchange (notes, traveller's cheques) exceeds $10,000 or its equivalent and/or the aggregate value of foreign currency notes is more than $5,000 or its equivalent. All travellers arriving in the country are required to declare amount exceeding 25,000 rupees, in addition to declaring any flat panel televisions. Non-resident Indians (NRI) and foreigners departing the country are required to change Indian rupees into a foreign currency before boarding the flight. Travellers can exchange the Indian currency at money- changing facilities at departure halls in international airports.

Members, especially foreigners, planning travel to India should be aware that the federal government in November 2016 demonetised 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes as part of its efforts against corruption; while new 500 rupee notes have been introduced, the 1,000-rupee notes have been replaced with 2,000-currency notes. Although the deadline for exchange of old currency notes has expired, reports indicate that confidence tricksters are trying to illegally convert the old currency notes, including giving these to foreigners who might not be aware of their authenticity. We recommend you consult the Reserve Bank of India's website or check with a trusted local contact for details of the currency notes in circulation.

Travellers intending to carry satellite phones need to take prior permission from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) as per procedure mentioned on its website, failing which they are liable to be prosecuted. Also, these are required to be declared to the customs' authorities on arrival. Customs officials may also require visitors with high-value items, such as laptop computers or video cameras, to complete a Tourist Baggage Re-Export form. This form must be produced when leaving the country, along with the item/(s) described. Procedures

Immigration procedures are thorough and generally courteous, but can be time-consuming. Travellers are required to complete immigration and customs forms prior to arrival. There are two customs channels: green for passengers with nothing to declare and red for passengers carrying items that are subject to duty. Foreigners visiting India, who hold long-term visas (more than 180 days), are required to obtain a Registration Certificate and Residential Permit from the nearest FRRO within 14 days of arrival. Foreigners registered at the FRRO are also required to report any change of address. Certificates of registration should be surrendered to immigration when leaving the country permanently.

Departure Tax • Departure tax is usually included in the price of the ticket, though this should be confirmed before departure.

Getting Around

BY AIR

Air transport is the most convenient way of covering India's long distances. National carrier Air India provides domestic and international services. The airline experiences sporadic bouts of industrial action, which can seriously disrupt schedules. Several private airlines offer flights to a wide variety of destinations. Service and punctuality are generally better on private carriers.

Separatist extremists and other militants have hijacked domestic flights in the past and security tends to be stringent, especially on flights to sensitive areas such as the Kashmir valley. The authorities are particularly concerned about knives and electrical equipment with batteries being carried in hand luggage. Ordinary penknives and torches may be confiscated.

BY ROAD

Traffic drives on the left and an international driver's licence is required. Foreigners should avoid self-driving due to poor and undisciplined local driving standards, as road rules are routinely disregarded and traffic light signals are often ignored. Drink-driving is a serious concern, particularly at late night. It is advisable to rent a chauffeur- driven car through a hotel or state tourist authority. International car-rental companies such as Hertz, Europcar and Avis have offices in major cities across the country. Road travel may be disrupted during the monsoon season (June-September) in major urban centres due to inundated routes and resultant traffic jams. Overland travel in north-eastern states as well as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand can be affected due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall. Heavy snowfall and associated road closures during winter months (December-January) may cause intermittent travel disruption in parts of northern areas such as the Kashmir valley, Jammu, Ladakh as well as the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Traffic is chaotic and gridlock is common in cities. The large concentration of three-wheelers (auto-rickshaws) and two-wheelers (scooters, motorcycles and bicycles), as well as stray animals and cattle, can aggravate the traffic conditions. Road surfaces in major cities can be uneven and rough; civic agencies dig ditches and do not refill them effectively following repair work. Visitors should be cautious of aggressive driving conditions, such as tailgating, flashing lights, vehicles being chased, and rude and abusive gestures.

Travelling outside city limits at night, even with a driver, is considered risky. Rural areas often have poorly maintained or unpaved roads that contribute to a high accident rate. In the event of being involved in a road traffic accident, it can be unsafe to remain at the scene, mandating heightened situational awareness; members are reminded that leaving an accident site is a criminal offence. Large crowds can gather quickly and often the more affluent party is blamed. Travellers involved in a collision should remain in the car, if it is safe to do so. In case of someone being injured, taking the victim to the hospital and simultaneously contacting the police and relevant embassy is the best course of action. However, if trying to leave the scene of an accident due to threats of physical violence or other extenuating circumstances, assess whether it can be done safely and without being blocked. Trying to leave forcefully or surreptitiously could also invite a hostile response. Alternatively, try to calmly negotiate with the crowd until the police arrive. Travellers should be aware that traffic police officers often request bribes.

Local and foreign tourists are required to obtain special permits prior to travel to certain areas of north-eastern states. For information on permits, visit the Ministry of Development of North-Eastern Region's website. In addition, foreign nationals require a permit to visit Sikkim state; details are available on the Sikkim tourism department's website.

BY TAXI

Radio cab options are available in cities and these have air-conditioned vehicles in good condition and with GPS tracking. Alternatively, rental cars with drivers are also available and can be hired for four/eight hours or for half- day/full day. Additionally, in some circumstances, such as short or one-off trips during daylight hours, foreign visitors may wish to use local official taxis. However, this can entail significant discomfort as they are rarely air- conditioned and can be dirty and in a poor state of repair. In addition, few drivers speak English and the fare payable will not be that represented by the meter; visitors should agree a fare in advance. It is preferable to arrange taxis through your hotel, local office or host company.

BY TRAIN

Rail travel is considered safer than road travel for long distances, owing to the high incidence of fatal road traffic accidents. The country's extensive rail network serves even its smallest towns. Business visitors should book tickets through travel websites, reputable agencies or hotels to avoid chaotic queuing.

Valuables should be secured in main luggage and chain-locked under the berth. Important and valuable items should not be kept in open or hanging bags as they are typically a target by opportunist criminals. Itineraries should not be discussed with strangers.

Travellers should refrain from accepting food or drink from fellow travellers, as there have been incidents where spiked consumables have been offered to passengers who are then robbed when they fall unconscious. It is advisable to buy water bottles and food items before boarding the train and keep them in a secure place when sleeping at night.

Rail services have occasionally been disrupted by Maoist rebels in states such as Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. Fog during the winter season (December to February) and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June-September) can also disrupt train schedules.

BY OTHER MEANS

Interstate bus services are not recommended for foreigners because of overcrowding, the risk of petty crime and possible female harassment.

BY AIR

There are also several domestic airports in India with limited international operations. These include Agra, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bangalore, Calicut, Kochi (Cochin), Coimbatore, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Nagpur, Patna, Siliguri, Tiruchi, Thiruvananthapuram, Varanasi and Visakhapatnam. Customs and immigration procedures apply as normal for international flights at these airports. Separatist extremists and other militants have hijacked domestic flights in the past and security tends to be stringent, especially on flights to sensitive areas such as the Kashmir valley. The authorities are particularly concerned about knives and electrical equipment with batteries being carried in hand luggage. Ordinary penknives and torches may be confiscated.

BY ROAD

In case of someone being injured, taking the victim to the hospital and simultaneously contacting the police and relevant embassy is the best course of action. However, if trying to leave the scene of an accident due to threats of physical violence or other extenuating circumstances, assess whether it can be done safely and without being blocked. Trying to leave forcefully or surreptitiously could also invite a hostile response. Alternatively, try to calmly negotiate with the crowd until the police arrive. Travellers should be aware that traffic police officers often request bribes.

BY TAXI

BY TRAIN

Foreigners should travel in first class air-conditioned (AC) or second-class AC carriages to ensure comfortable seating or sleeping berths and to mitigate the risk of opportunistic petty crime. The fast Shatabdi express trains offer a single, good class of service (AC chair car), including ample refreshments. Valuables should be secured in main luggage and chain-locked under the berth. Important and valuable items should not be kept in open or hanging bags as they are typically a target by opportunist criminals. Itineraries should not be discussed with strangers.

BY OTHER MEANS

Interstate bus services are not recommended for foreigners because of overcrowding, the risk of petty crime and possible female harassment.

Language & Money

LANGUAGE

Hindi and English are the official languages. However, business is conducted in English. Indian business associates may confer with one another in Hindi or their local language, but foreign business executives will not be expected to speak or understand a local language. Hotel and airline staff speak English.

MONEY

India's currency is the rupee (INR). Money should be changed at banks, or through official currency exchanges at hotels. Black-market currency converters are common and visitors may be cheated when using their services. Money-changing facilities at hotels are often faster and more efficient than at ordinary banks. ATMs are increasingly available in all major metropolitan areas and most large towns.

Major credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. Traveller's cheques are accepted at some banks and most major hotels. It is advisable to carry traveller's cheques in either US dollars or pounds sterling.

LANGUAGE

MONEY

Cultural Tips

General Tips

• It is considered impolite to point with your finger, to whistle and to position your feet in the direction of another person. • Always use your right hand to accept or pass food. Never offer another person food from your plate. • Most Hindus do not eat beef, which is not available in many states, and many are vegetarians. • Some states do not permit the import of alcohol from other states. The police may carry out checks at border areas, particularly during sensitive periods such as elections, to enforce this law. • Gifts should not be opened in the presence of the giver, unless you are expressly asked to do so. • Main cities have many bars and nightclubs. Travellers must obtain an alcohol consumption licence to drink alcohol in certain states. Licences can be obtained for free at the airport. • Certain activities, such as speaking at religious meetings, which can be perceived to be proselytising, may violate immigration law if the traveller does not possess a missionary visa. Travellers on tourist visas who are found to engage in missionary activities are liable to be deported or possibly prosecuted. • Tourists planning to visit religious establishments, such as Hindu temples, mosques, churches, gurudwara (place of worship for Sikhs) or any other locations considered to be sacred by local communities, should be aware of local restrictions and rituals. • Homosexuality is legal.

Business Tips

• Formal meetings with Indian business executives should present few problems, other than those associated with caste, religious taboos and protocols. Caste is rarely an issue, but religious differences are more sensitive. • The simplest method of not inadvertently causing offence is in all cases to dress discreetly; maintain an even conversational tone; and show no obvious signs of impatience, frustration or anger. • Foreign business executives in the company of Muslim business associates should follow their lead, especially during the Ramadan festival, when practising Muslims will fast from dawn till dusk. • Business visitors should be punctual and dress smartly for meetings. • Business cards are usually exchanged. • Men shake hands upon meeting and when departing. Western businesswomen should not initiate handshaking with Indian men. • The traditional greeting, known as the namaste, may be appropriate when a handshake is not. Do this by putting your palms together, bow slightly and say 'namaste'. (This means 'I salute the godlike qualities within you'.) • It is advisable to be punctual to appointments. • Always address Indians by their professional titles or by Mr, Mrs, Miss. Do not use their first names unless invited to do so. • Hospitality, such as tea and small talk, is a part of conducting business. • Men should wear a suit and tie. Jackets may be removed in the summer. Women should wear conservative dresses or suits.

Businesswomen

To mitigate these risks, women travellers should employ certain precautions such as:

Tipping

Tipping is common in India (where service charges are not included) and a small tip of Rs 50-100 will be highly appreciated. Most restaurants and hotels will add a surcharge of 10-15% to the bill.

Working Week

• Working week: Monday to Friday. • Office hours: 09.00-17.00. • Banking hours: 10.30-15.30; private banks tend to work longer hours. Second and fourth Saturdays are bank holidays.

General Tips

Business Tips

Businesswomen

To mitigate these risks, women travellers should employ certain precautions such as:

Tipping

Tipping is common in India (where service charges are not included) and a small tip of Rs 50-100 will be highly appreciated. Most restaurants and hotels will add a surcharge of 10-15% to the bill.

Working Week

• Working week: Monday to Friday. • Office hours: 09.00-17.00. • Banking hours: 10.30-15.30; private banks tend to work longer hours. Second and fourth Saturdays are bank holidays.

Phone & Power

India Telecommunications

Emergency Numbers Fire 101 Police 100

Dialing Codes Country Code 91 IDD Prefix (International Direct Dialing) 00 NDD Prefix (National Direct Dialing) 0

Telephone Information Foreign business travellers should make international calls from their hotels or from telephone booths, which are clearly marked as ‘STD/ISD' and metered. The booth operator is paid in cash, according to the length of the call. Some international calling cards, such as AT&T and MCI, also provide access for international numbers.

To acquire a local pay-as-you-go (or prepaid) mobile connection, travellers need to provide proof of their local address, so short-term travellers are unlikely to be able to obtain one. Moreover, the government has directed all mobile operators to not provide connections to foreign nationals for a period beyond three months; foreigners need to present their passport with a valid visa to obtain a connection.

The possession and use of satellite phones is forbidden under Section 6 of the India Wireless Act and Section 20 of the Indian Telegraph Act. Travellers should consult the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) website and apply well in advance for a ‘No Objection Certificate' if they wish to use a satellite phone.

Postal services are reliable in most major cities, though these are subject to occasional delays. It is advisable to buy stamps and send letters from hotels. Private courier services are preferable for international business correspondence and consignment delivery, though Speed Post services provided by the national postal service are reliable and quick too. Most good hotels have fax machines and internet connections. There are also internet cafes in metropolitan cities, as well as in smaller towns.

India Electricity

Voltage and Frequency

Additional Electrical Information Voltage: 220-230 volts Frequency: 50 Hz

These are the most common plug types used:

Geography & Weather

Weather data provided by weather.com

Climate

The climate type can generally be described as monsoon, though India experiences significant regional variations in climatic conditions. The period between April and July is uncomfortably hot, especially in Delhi and on the northern Indian plains. Maximum temperatures in Delhi reach 21°C (70°F) in January and 45°C (113°F) in July. Maximum temperatures in Mumbai are 31°C (88°F) in January and 36°C (97°F) in July. Although Delhi is less humid than Mumbai, the extreme heat can make the city unpleasant for visitors.

Southern India is hot and humid all year round, but sea breezes temper the worst extremes of the climate. Monsoon rains reach the southern and eastern coast in June and the rest of the country slightly later. Flooding during the monsoon season often disrupts travel in northern and north-eastern India between July and September. Although air-conditioning has removed some of the strictures on dress, it is still advisable for executives to wear lightweight suits and natural-fibre clothing. Even a short walk or a wait for a taxi can be uncomfortable for those wearing woollen or synthetic clothing.

GEOGRAPHY

India has an extensive coastline and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the south, the Bay of Bengal to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. The country can be divided into three distinct geographic regions: the Himalayan region in the north, which contains some of the highest mountains in the world; the Gangetic Plain; and the plateau region in the south and centre. The country's three great river systems – the Ganges, the Indus and the Brahmaputra – have extensive deltas and all originate from the Himalayas.

India is the seventh-largest country in the world in terms of land area and comprises a major part of the South Asian subcontinent. The country is bounded by Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east, with the Himalayan range, Tibet and Nepal to the north-east, and Pakistan to the north-west. The disputed region of Kashmir is bounded by Pakistan, China and Afghanistan. To India's south lie Sri Lanka and the Maldives. India is administratively divided into 29 states and seven union territories.

Embassies & Consulates

Embassies Argentina Embassy Delhi F-3/3, Vasant Vihar Poorvi Marg, Block F, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi; Delhi

Delhi 110057 India Telephone: +91 11 4078 1900

Fascimilie: +91 11 4078 1901

website: http://eindi.cancilleria.gov.ar/en

Australia Consulate Chennai 9th Floor, Express Chambers, Express Avenue 49, 50L Whites Road, Royapettah; Chennai,

Chennai 600 014 India Telephone: +91 44 4592 1300

Fascimilie: +91 44 4592 1320

website: http://www.india.embassy.gov.au/

Mumbai Level 10, A Wing, Crescenzo Building, Opposite MCA Cricket Club, G Block, Plot C 38-39, Bandra Kurla Complex; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +91 22 67574900

Fascimilie: +91 22 6757 4955

Email: [email protected]

website: https://mumbai.consulate.gov.au/mbai/home.html

Australia High Commission Delhi 1/50, G Shantipath, Chanakyapuri,; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4139 9900

Fascimilie: +91 11 2687 2228

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.india.embassy.gov.au/ndli/home.html

Belgium Consulate Mumbai TCG Financial Centre, 7th floor C-53, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400098 India Telephone: +91 22 265 21016

Fascimilie: +91 22 265 21051

Email: [email protected]

website: https://india.diplomatie.belgium.be/en/embassy-and-consulates/consulate-gen

Belgium Embassy Delhi 50-N Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4242 8000

Fascimilie: +91 11 4242 8002

Email: [email protected]

website: https://india.diplomatie.belgium.be/en

Brazil Consulate Mumbai Unit 12B, 12th Floor, Bakhtawar Building, RN Goenka Marg, Nariman Point; Mumbai

Mumbai 400 021 India Telephone: +91 22-22034467

Fascimilie: +91 22-22834468

Email: [email protected]

website: http://mumbai.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/

Brazil Embassy Delhi 8, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road; Delhi

Delhi 110011 India Telephone: +91 11 2301 7301

Fascimilie: +91 11 2379 3684

website: http://novadelhi.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/

Canada Consulate Chennai 18 (Old 24), 3rd Floor, YAFA Tower, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam; Chennai

Chennai 600006 India Telephone: +91 44 2833 0888

Fascimilie: +91 44 4215 9393

Email: [email protected]

Kolkata Duncan House, 31 Netaji Subhas Road; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700 001 India Telephone: +91 33 22426820

Fascimilie: +91 33 22426828

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.india.gc.ca

Mumbai Tower 2, 21st Floor, Indiabulls Finance Centre, Senapati Bapat Marg, Elphinstone Road (W); Mumbai,

Mumbai 400013 India Telephone: +91 22 6749 4444

Fascimilie: +91 22 6749 4454

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.india.gc.ca

Canada High Commission Delhi 7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4178 2000

Fascimilie: +91 11 4178 2020

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/india-inde/

China Consulate Kolkata EC-72, Sector I, Salt Lake City; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700064 India Telephone: +91 33 40045210

Fascimilie: +91 33 40048168

Email: [email protected]

website: http://kolkata.china-consulate.org/eng/

Mumbai 11th floor, Nariman Bhavan, Nariman Point; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400021 India Telephone: +91 22 66324304

Fascimilie: +91 22 56324302

Email: [email protected]

website: http://mumbai.chineseconsulate.org/eng/

China Embassy Delhi 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 24677525

Fascimilie: +91 11 26885486

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.china-embassy.org/eng/

Denmark Embassy Delhi 11, Golf Links; Delhi

Delhi 110003 India Telephone: +91 11 4209 0700

Fascimilie: +91 11 2460 2019

Email: [email protected]

website: http://indien.um.dk/

Finland Embassy Delhi E-3, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 41497500

Fascimilie: +91 11 4149 7555

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.finland.org.in/public/default.aspx?culture=en-US&contentlan=

France Consulate Bangalore 21 Palace Road, Vasanthanagar; Bangalore,

Bangalore 560052 India Telephone: +91 80 22141200

website: http://bangalore.ambafrance-in.org/

Kolkata 21C, Raja Santosh Road, Alipore; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700027 India Telephone: +91 33 40163200

Fascimilie: +91 33 40163201/2

website: https://in.ambafrance.org/French-consulates-in-India

Mumbai Wockhardt Towers, East Wing, 5th floor Bandra-Kurla Complex; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +91 22 66694000

website: https://in.ambafrance.org/-Consulate-in-Bombay-

France Embassy Delhi 2/50-E Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4319 6100

Fascimilie: +91 11 4319 6119

Email: https://in.ambafrance.org/email-webmestre

website: https://in.ambafrance.org/-French-Embassy-in-New-Delhi-

Germany Consulate Bangalore 2nd and 3rd Floor, Cash Pharmacy Building, Corner St Mark’s Road and Residency Road; Bangalore,

Bangalore 560025 India Telephone: +91 80 45300100

Fascimilie: +91 80 45300148

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.bangalore.diplo.de

Chennai No. 9 Boat Club Road, RA Puram; Chennai,

Chennai 600 028 India Telephone: +91 44 2430 1600

Fascimilie: +91 44 2434 9293

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.chennai.diplo.de

Kolkata 1 Hastings Park Road, Alipore; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700027 India Telephone: +91 33 2479 1141

Fascimilie: +91 33 2479 3028

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.kalkutta.diplo.de

Mumbai 10th Floor, Hoechst House, Nariman Point,193 Backbay Reclamation; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400021 India Telephone: +91 22 2283 2422

Fascimilie: +91 22 2202 5493

Email: https://india.diplo.de/action/in-en/1808830/action/contact-us

website: http://www.mumbai.diplo.de

Germany Embassy Delhi No 6/50G Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 44199199

Fascimilie: +49 30 181767238

Email: https://india.diplo.de/in-en/vertretungen/botschaft/kontakt-formular

website: http://www.new-delhi.diplo.de

Indonesia Consulate Mumbai 19, Altamount road, Cumballa Hill; Mumbai

Mumbai 400026 India Telephone: +91 22-23868678

Fascimilie: +91 22-3800941

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.kjrimumbai.net/

Indonesia Embassy Delhi 50 A, Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri; Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 26118642-46

Fascimilie: +91 11 26874402

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.kemlu.go.id/newdelhi/en/default.aspx

Italy Consulate Kolkata 5G, Rev. Lalbehari Shah Sarani (formerly New Road), Alipore; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700027 India Telephone: +91 33 24792414

Fascimilie: +91 33 24793892

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.conscalcutta.esteri.it

Mumbai Kanchanjunga, Piano Terra,Ground Floor, 72 G, Deshmukh Marg; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400026 India Telephone: +91 22 23804071

Fascimilie: Fax: +91 22 23874074

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.consmumbai.esteri.it/Consolato_Mumbai

Italy Embassy Delhi 50, Chandra Gupta Marg, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 26114355

Fascimilie: +91 11 26873889

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.ambnewdelhi.esteri.it

Japan Consulate Bangalore 1st Floor, Prestige Nebula, No. 8-14, Cubbon Road; Bangalore,

Bangalore 560001 India Telephone: +91 80 4064 9999

Fascimilie: +91 80 4166 0114

Chennai No.12/1, Cenetoph Road, Ist Street,Teynampet; Chennai,

Chennai 600018 India Telephone: +91 44 2432 3860

Fascimilie: +91 44 2432 3859

Kolkata 55, M.N. Sen Lane, Tollygunge; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700040 India Telephone: +91 33 2421 1970

Fascimilie: +91 33 2421 1971

Mumbai No.1, M.L.Dahanukar Marg, Cumbala Hill; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400026 India Telephone: +91 22 2351 7101

Fascimilie: +91 22 2351 7120

website: http://www.mumbai.in.emb-japan.go.jp/en/

Japan Embassy Delhi Plot No 4&5, 50-G Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 2687 6581

Fascimilie: +91 11 26885587

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/

Mexico Embassy Delhi C-8, Benito Juarez Road, Block C, Anand Niketan, New Delhi; Delhi

Delhi India Telephone: +91 11 2411 7180

Fascimilie: +91 11 2411 7193

Email: [email protected]

website: https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/index.php

Netherlands Consulate Kolkata 5, Rameshwar Shaw Road; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700014 India Telephone: +91 33 2289 7020

Fascimilie: +91 33 2289 7919

website: [email protected]

Mumbai 1st Floor, Forbes Building, Charanjit Rai Marg; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400001 India Telephone: +91 22 2219 4200

Fascimilie: +91 22 2219 4230

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/india/about-us/consulate-gene

Netherlands Embassy Delhi 6/50 F, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 2419 7600

Fascimilie: +91 11 2419 7710

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/india/abo

Norway Consulate Chennai No. 45 (Old No.22) Sixth Main Road, Raja Annamalaipuram; Chennai,

Chennai 600 028 India Telephone: +91 44 2435 7537

Fascimilie: +91 44 2435 5939

Email: [email protected]

Kolkata 64 Lake Place; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700 029 India Telephone: +91 33 2465 6280

Fascimilie: +91 33 2236 5890

Email: [email protected] ; [email protected]

Mumbai TCG Financial Centre, 3rd Floor, C-53, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (E),; Mumbai,

Mumbai India Telephone: +91 22 6133 0700

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.norway.no/en/india/norway-india/cg-mumbai/

Norway Embassy Delhi 50-C, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4136 3200

Fascimilie: +91 11 4136 3201

Email: [email protected]

website: www.norway.no/en/india/

Russia Consulate Chennai 14, Santhome High Road; Chennai

Chennai 600004 India Telephone: +91 44-24982320

Fascimilie: +91 44-24982336

Email: [email protected]

Mumbai 42, L. Jagmohandas Marg; Mumbai

Mumbai 400036 India Telephone: +91 22-23633627

Fascimilie: +91 22-23631493

Email: [email protected]

website: https://russiaconsulmumbai.mid.ru/

Russia Embassy Delhi 50-F, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91-11-2687 3799

Fascimilie: +91-11-2687 6823

Email: [email protected]

website: http://rusembindia.com/

Kolkata 22A, Raja Santosh Road Alipore; Kolkata

Kolkata 700 027 India Telephone: +91 33-24797006

Fascimilie: +91 33-24798889

Email: [email protected]

Saudi Arabia Consulate Mumbai Maker Tower F, 4th Floor, Cuffe Parade; Mumbai

Mumbai 400005 India Telephone: +91 22 22156001

Fascimilie: +91 22 22156006

Email: [email protected]

website: http://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/india/AR/Mumbai/Pages/default.aspx

Saudi Arabia Embassy Delhi 2, Paschimi Marg, Vasant Vihar; Delhi

Delhi 110057 India Telephone: +91-11-43244401

Fascimilie: +91-11- 2614 4244

Email: [email protected]

website: http://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/India/en/Pages/default.aspx

South Africa Consulate Mumbai Gandhi Mansion, 20 Altamount Road; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400026 India Telephone: +91 22 2351 3725

Fascimilie: +91 22 2352 3735

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.dirco.gov.za/mumbai/

South Africa High Commission Delhi B18, Vasant Marg, Block E, Vasant Vihar; New Delhi

Delhi 110057 India Telephone: +91 11 2614 9411

Fascimilie: +91 11 26148605

Email: [email protected]

South Korea Consulate Chennai 5th Floor, Bannari Amman, Tower No.29, Dr. Radha Krishna Road, Mylapore; Chennai

Chennai India Telephone: +91 44-40615500

Fascimilie: +91 44-42037396

Email: [email protected]

Mumbai Lodha Supremus, 12th Floor, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli Naka; Mumbai

Mumbai India Telephone: +91 22-61477000

Fascimilie: +91 22-61477077

Email: [email protected]

website: http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/in-mumbai-en/index.do

South Korea Embassy Delhi 9, Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri Extension; Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91-11-4200 7000

Fascimilie: +91-11-2688 4840

Email: [email protected]

website: http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/in-en/index.do

Spain Consulate Mumbai 3rd floor Express Towers, Barrister Rajni Patel Marg, Nariman Point; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400021 India Telephone: +91 22 2288 0213

Fascimilie: +91 22 2288 0254

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/MUMBAI/en/Consulado/Pages/inicio.as

Spain Embassy Delhi 12, Prithviraj Road; New Delhi

Delhi 110011 India Telephone: +91 11 4129 3000

Fascimilie: +91 11 4129 3020

Email: [email protected]

website: http://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/NUEVADELHI/en/Pages/inicio.aspx

Sweden Embassy Delhi 4-5, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, PO Box 392; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4419 7100

Fascimilie: +91 11 4419 7197

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/embassies/india-new-delhi/

Switzerland Consulate Bangalore No. 26, Crescent Park, Resthouse Crescent Road; Bangalore,

Bangalore 560051 India Telephone: +91 80 49412000

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.eda.admin.ch/bangalore

Mumbai 10th Floor, 102 Maker Chambers IV, 222, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg, Nariman Point; Mumbai,

Mumbai 400021 India Telephone: +91 22 22 85 81 61

Fascimilie: +91 22 2285 6566

Email: [email protected]

Switzerland Embassy Delhi Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 4995 9500

Fascimilie: +91 11 4995 9509

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/india/en/home/representations/embassy-ne

Turkey Consulate Hyderabad Plot no. 656-A, Road no. 34, Jubilee Hills; Hyderabad Hyderabad India Telephone: +91 40-23636365

Email: [email protected]

website: http://haydarabad.bk.mfa.gov.tr/Mission

Mumbai 101, 10th Floor, Makers Chambers IV, Nariman Point; Mumbai

Mumbai India Telephone: +91 44-22040365

Fascimilie: +91 44-22040376

Email: [email protected]

website: http://mumbai.bk.mfa.gov.tr/Mission

Turkey Embassy Delhi 50-N, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri; Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 2688 9053

Email: [email protected]

website: http://newdelhi.emb.mfa.gov.tr/Mission

United Kingdom Consulate Chennai 20 Anderson Road, Nungambakkam; Chennai,

Chennai 600 006 India Telephone: +91 44 4219 2151

Fascimilie: +91 44 4219 2322

Email: [email protected]

Kolkata 1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700071 India Telephone: +91 33 2288 5173

Fascimilie: +91 33 2288 3435

Email: [email protected]

United Kingdom High Commission Delhi Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 2419 2100

Fascimilie: +91 11 2419 2491

Email: [email protected]

website: http://ukinindia.fco.gov.uk/

Mumbai Naman Chambers, C/32 G Block Bandra Kurla Complex (Opposite Dena Bank), Bandra (East); Mumbai,

Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +91 22 6650 2222

Fascimilie: +91 22 6650 2324

Email: [email protected]

website: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-deputy-high-commission-mumba

United States Consulate Chennai Gemini Circle; Chennai,

Chennai 600006 India Telephone: +91 44 2857 4000

Fascimilie: 91 44 2811 2020

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/chennai

Hyderabad Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad; Hyderabad,

Hyderabad 500003 India Telephone: +91 040 4625 8222

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/hyderabad/

Kolkata 5/1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani; Kolkata,

Kolkata 700071 India Telephone: +91 33 3984 2400

Fascimilie: +91 33 2282 2335

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/kolkata/

Mumbai C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East); Mumbai,

Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +91 22 2672 4000

Fascimilie: +91 22 2672 4786

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/mumbai/

United States Embassy Delhi Shantipath, Chanakyapuri; New Delhi

Delhi 110021 India Telephone: +91 11 24198000

Fascimilie: +91 11 24190017

Email: [email protected]

website: http://in.usembassy.gov/

Calendar

2019

15 Aug Independence Day Expect stringent security measures nationwide, particularly in Delhi.

02 Oct Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday

01 Nov Kannada Day

25 Dec Christmas Day In some countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following Monday.

2020

01 Jan New Year's Day In many countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following Monday.

23 Jan Birthday of Subhas Chandra Bose (Indian nationalist leader)

26 Jan Republic Day Expect stringent security measures nationwide, particularly in the capital Delhi.

08 Mar International Women's Day Members should avoid all related gatherings as a precaution and to minimise travel delays.

09 Mar - 10 Mar Holi festival Members should expect disruption to travel, business and commercial activity during the Hindu festival of Holi (commonly referred to as the festival of colours).

05 Apr Babu Jagjivan Ram's birthday

14 Apr Tamil New Year

15 Apr Mahavir Jayanthi

01 May Maharashtra Day

01 May Workers' Day/Labour Day/May Day/Spring Day Student/labour demonstrations can be expected. If the holiday falls on a rest day, it may be observed on the next working day.

06 May Basava Jyanti

2019

15 Aug Independence Day Expect stringent security measures nationwide, particularly in Delhi.

02 Oct Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday

01 Nov Kannada Day

25 Dec Christmas Day In some countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following Monday.

2020

01 Jan New Year's Day In many countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following Monday.

23 Jan Birthday of Subhas Chandra Bose (Indian nationalist leader)

26 Jan Republic Day Expect stringent security measures nationwide, particularly in the capital Delhi.

08 Mar International Women's Day Members should avoid all related gatherings as a precaution and to minimise travel delays.

09 Mar - 10 Mar Holi festival Members should expect disruption to travel, business and commercial activity during the Hindu festival of Holi (commonly referred to as the festival of colours).

05 Apr Babu Jagjivan Ram's birthday

14 Apr Tamil New Year

15 Apr Mahavir Jayanthi

01 May Maharashtra Day

01 May Workers' Day/Labour Day/May Day/Spring Day Student/labour demonstrations can be expected. If the holiday falls on a rest day, it may be observed on the next working day.

06 May Basava Jyanti

Disclaimer Privacy

Travel security advice provided in this report represents the best judgment of AEA International Holdings Pte. Ltd. and Control Risks Group Holdings Ltd. Medical and health advice provided in this report represents the best judgment of AEA International Holdings Pte. Ltd. Advice in this report does not however provide a warranty of future results nor a guarantee against risk.

© 2019 AEA International Holdings Pte. Ltd. and Control Risks Group Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction (other than for authorised internal purposes) is prohibited except with the prior written consent of the copyright owners.