📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently launched the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) in a bid to streamline the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders. The innovative initiative, akin to the Global Entry Program in the United States, is set to revolutionize travel convenience and efficiency for these passengers. Under the FTI-TTP, eligible individuals are required to apply online and provide their biometrics (fingerprint and facial image) along with other necessary information. Upon successful verification and confirmation of eligibility, a nominal fee will have to be paid, following which approved applicants can enjoy expedited immigration clearance by utilizing designated lanes at major Indian airports. The programme is anticipated to create a seamless journey for travellers by leveraging e-gates and reducing wait times at immigration counters. The initiative, part of the ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ agenda, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing travel facilities for all passengers arriving in India. The FTI-TTP is slated to be implemented at 21 major airports across the country, starting with seven key airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Ahmedabad in the initial phase. The registration for FTI-TTP will be valid for up to five years or until the passport’s expiry date. Applicants can avail of this facility by visiting the official government website and furnishing the requisite details for verification by the Bureau of Immigration. With the implementation of e-gates at airports, the aim is to minimize human intervention in the immigration clearance process, offering a hassle-free experience for travellers. By providing a fast-track immigration pathway for verified passengers, the FTI-TTP is poised to significantly reduce congestion at airports and enhance the overall travel experience. The programme will be rolled out in two phases, encompassing Indian citizens, OCI cardholders, and subsequently foreign travellers. With the use of automated gates and biometric authentication, the FTI-TTP seeks to establish a secure and efficient immigration pathway for international travellers.
