A passport is a symbol of national identity. It is also an international travel document. As the summer holiday season begins, the limitations of an Indian passport in the latter role are painfully evident.
Out of a possible 227 destinations listed in the Henley Passport Index, Indians do not need a visa for 31 countries and can get a visa-on-arrival to 30 countries, so they enjoy relaxed visa norms in merely 61 countries. For the rest, visas have to be obtained the cumbersome, old-fashioned way. India lags significantly behind its peers in ease of international mobility.
As many as 145 countries out of 199 were ahead of India in the latest Henley Passport Index. Compare that with Brazil, which has visa-free access to 173 countries, including those in Europe. Even Russia—international sanctions notwithstanding—gets access to 120 countries.
Given India’s pride at being one of the world’s fastest growing economies, the Henley rankings caused much angst when they were released. But the fact is that visa decisions depend on various non-growth factors. Geography is important: the Asean bloc allows visa-free travel among members, as does the European Union.
Reciprocity is critical: since Brazilians need a visa to visit the US, Brazil imposes the same rule on US citizens. Also read: Bilateral relations make a difference: The United Arab Emirates has raised its passport strength significantly through systematic diplomacy, global investment, and by positioning itself as a key .