To attract more tourists, the government has decided to implement a 'Visa on Arrival Scheme' for the citizens of five countries, including Japan and Singapore, soon.
"A Visa on Arrival Scheme will be implemented for Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, Luxembourg and Finland for one year on experimental basis," Home Minister P Chidambaram said today.
Addressing a meeting of the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Home Affairs today, he said the present number of about 5 million visitors every year was too small and a large country like India should have at least 50 million visitors.
This will be possible through various measures including streamlining of visa and immigration procedures and extending them better service, he said.
The Home Minister said the Foreigners' Division of the Home Ministry, which deals with visa issues, will be revamped through the use of information and communication technology.
A project, estimated to cost about Rs 20 crore will be implemented from January, 2010 for the purpose.
Chidambaram said the Visa Manual is being re-written and the final draft is likely to be ready by January, 2010.