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Lok Sabha
The Minister of State for External Affairs, Shri E. Ahamed told the Lok Sabha today that South Asian Free Media Association (SAFMA) has been suggesting liberalisation of visa rules by India and Pakistan. During the South Asian Parliamentary Forum organised by SAFMA at Bhurban from May 15-20, 2005, the Association called for revision of visa policies by the Governments concerned and requested to allow free movement of media persons and products across the borders.
The Minister further informed that the Government has progressively liberalised the visa regime for Pakistani nationals. In September 2004, Government announced liberalised visa procedures for accredited journalists, academicians, professors, Vice-Chancellors, medical doctors accompanying patients and visitors for conferences approved by Government. Exemption from Police Reporting for persons above the age of 65 and increase in number of places permitted from 3 to 12 have also been announced. Liberalised visa scheme for Pakistani students coming to join at school level in reputed international schools and professional courses in recognised educational institutions have been put in place since February 2005. India also introduced grant of visas on arrival at Attari Check-post for people above the age of 65 and below the age of 12 with effect from April 1, 2005. This facility would also be available for members of groups who have been already cleared by Government.
The above information was given by the Minister in reply to a question by Sh. Paras Nath Yadav.
AK/SK/JA
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