India mandates Air Suvidha self-declaration for passengers arriving from Ebola-affected countries

India has activated the Air Suvidha portal for passengers arriving from or transiting through Ebola-affected countries, making it mandatory for them to submit the Self-Declaration Form (SDF) online before deboarding.

This replaces the earlier paper-based process and is aimed at strengthening health surveillance while ensuring 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), according to officials.

India Steps Up Support for Ebola Response in Africa

The development comes days after Union Health Minister JP Nadda announced a financial commitment of US $10 million towards preparedness, response and recovery efforts related to the Ebola outbreak.

Speaking at a Virtual Summit organised by the African Union on June 17, Nadda said India had reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa-led efforts to tackle the outbreak. The summit was chaired by African Union Chairperson and Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye.

In a post on X, Nadda said: “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.”

The minister said India has already delivered 45 tonnes of medical supplies and remains prepared to extend further assistance based on the requirements of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and countries at risk.

“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.

Nadda also said India would provide technical collaboration and capacity-building support to African health 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.

(With inputs from ANI)