Mandatory online health declaration returns as authorities strengthen airport screening following the global Ebola alert
India has relaunched its digital passenger health declaration system, Air Suvidha 2.0, making it mandatory for all international travellers arriving in the country to submit an online self-declaration before departure. The upgraded platform is part of enhanced public health surveillance measures introduced in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation, in collaboration with Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), launched the contactless system to improve health screening at international entry points. The portal allows passengers to complete the mandatory Self-Declaration Form (SDF) up to 24 hours before their arrival in India, reducing paperwork and facilitating faster airport clearance.
Travellers are required to provide passport details, flight information, contact details, their recent 21-day travel history and health-related information. Those who have travelled to or had potential exposure in Ebola-affected regions may be required to complete additional declarations and could undergo further health screening upon arrival.
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After submitting the form, passengers receive an acknowledgement and registration number, which should be carried either digitally or as a printed copy for verification at immigration or the airport health desk if requested
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Authorities have advised travellers to ensure that all information entered matches their travel documents to avoid delays
The upgraded platform enables real-time sharing of passenger data with Airport Health Officers, the Bureau of Immigration, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and state surveillance authorities. Officials say this will help identify potentially high-risk travellers more quickly while maintaining a seamless and contactless arrival process.
Air Suvidha was originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic before being withdrawn in 2023. Its return reflects India’s renewed focus on border health security as global health authorities continue monitoring the spread of Ebola and seek to prevent cross-border transmission through international travel.
