Travellers from Ebola-affected countries to submit self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal before deboarding
New Delhi, June 25
The Air Suvidha portal has been activated for passengers arriving from or transiting through Ebola-affected countries, enabling them to submit the mandatory Self-Declaration Form online before deboarding.
The online system replaces the earlier paper-based process and is aimed at strengthening health surveillance while facilitating smoother passenger processing at points of entry.
The requirement has been in place since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Ebola a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), they added.
Earlier, Union Health Minister JP Nadda on June 17, said that USD 10 million has been announced by India for the preparedness, response, and recovery amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak at a 'Virtual Summit' organised by the African Union.
The virtual summit was chaired by the African Union Chairperson and President of Burundi, Évariste Ndayishimiye.
In an X post, JP Nadda said that India has reaffirmed its commitment to support Africa-led efforts amid the global Ebola outbreak.
"Participated in the African Union-organised Virtual Summit of African Heads of State and Government and Partners to discuss a strong, coordinated global response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The Summit was chaired by the AU Chairperson and President of Burundi. India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa-led efforts for outbreak preparedness, response, and recovery, and announced support of USD 10 million," he said.
Nadda noted that 45 tonnes of medical supplies have already been delivered by India and that the country stands firm to provide further assistance to fulfil nutrition, medicinal, and essential needs.
"In addition to the 45 tonnes of medical supplies already delivered, India stands ready to provide further assistance through medical and laboratory supplies, diagnostic materials, essential medicines, and nutritional support, as per the requirements of Africa CDC and countries at risk," he said.
The Union Minister said that India will also collaborate in terms of technology and capacity-building support for African institutions.
"India will also partner through technical collaboration and capacity-building support for African health institutions. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India remains committed to working together as a trusted partner in strengthening Africa's health security and resilience," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
USD 10 million is a significant amount, but I wonder if we're also investing enough in our own domestic healthcare infrastructure to handle potential cases. India has learned from COVID - we need robust local systems AND international cooperation. The 45 tonnes of medical supplies sent already shows our commitment though. 👏
As someone who travels frequently for work, this is reassuring. The self-declaration form on Air Suvidha is a sensible step - it's quick, digital, and reduces contact points. India's proactive approach to public health emergencies is commendable, especially after the COVID experience. Hope other countries follow similar protocols.
Digital transformation is good, but ground reality matters. Are our airport health teams adequately trained for Ebola screening? Paper or digital - if the staff at airports are not equipped with proper PPE or knowledge, it's all just paperwork. Hope the government ensures on-ground preparedness alongside the portal. 🤔
Impressive coordination between India and the African Union. The virtual summit approach shows how global health security needs collective action. The USD 10 million aid and technical support for African institutions is particularly noteworthy - it's not just about protecting our borders but helping contain outbreaks at source. Smart strategy.
One small criticism - the portal should be available in multiple Indian languages too, not just English. Many travelers from smaller towns might struggle. Also, they should ensure the form is simple enough for elderly passengers. Technology is great, but it must be inclusive! 🌍 Otherwise, good initiative by the Health Ministry.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.