Possibility of exemption from RT-PCR test for travelers taking both doses of vaccine

New Delhi, Dt

The central government is considering exempting tourists who have taken both doses of the corona vaccine from the mandatory RT-PCR test to alleviate the problem of tourists for domestic travel and to promote the vaccination campaign.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said a joint team of several ministries and stakeholders, including the health department, was discussing a final decision on allowing passengers who had taken both doses of the corona vaccine to travel by air without the RT-PCR test. He added that such a decision could not be taken by the Ministry of Civil Aviation alone. Nodal agencies, including health experts working with the government, will also contribute to decision-making in the interest of tourists.

Currently domestic travelers have to submit a mandatory negative RT-PCR report for travel to some states. Health is a state issue. It is the sole prerogative of the states to request a negative RT-PCR report from tourists before entering a state. Meanwhile, a 'vaccine passport' for international travelers is also being considered. India had earlier objected to it and declared it a discriminatory idea.