Muscat:
India is fast turning into a favourite destination for Omani tourists, especially for those seeking advanced medicare.
There has been a steep rise in the number of visas being issued to India-bound Omanis in the recent past.
From January 1 to June 30 this year, the number of medical visas issued to Omanis has jumped three times and that of other kinds of visas went up 30 per cent when compared to the same period last year, the official data shows.
“There was a tremendous increase in the number of all kinds of visas issued to Omanis during the first half 2012. The statistics reveal that India is turning into a prime destination for Omanis who opt for advanced treatment and also want to have a glimpse of the rich Indian cultural heritage,- a senior official from the Indian embassy told Times of Oman.
According to the data, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra and New Delhi are the top five destinations -”in descending order-” where Omanis visited for medical treatment during the last six months.
“The rise in the number of medical visas shows that India is turning into a medicare hub. India has state-of-the-art medical facilities, experienced medics, affordable and quality nursing facilities, cheap medicines, and traditional healthcare centres. This has led to a rush in medical tourism,- the official added.
The Indian’ Embassy in Muscat issues medical, tourism, business and student visas for Omanis.
Omanis travels to India to seek treatment for cardiovascular, gastroenterology, orthopaedic, oncology, ophthalmology and dental ailments.
“After their return from India, many Omanis say that due to cultural similarities and historical ties, they feel they are at home,- the official added.
“I took my wife for allergy treatment to Kerala a few weeks ago. She received the best available treatment and now she is fine. The facilities are world-class and treatment quite cheap,- Fahad Al Kharousi, an oil company employee, told Times of Oman.
“The processing of official papers for going to India for medical purposes is much easier compared to any other country. Moreover, the facilities we get there are the best,- Fahad said, adding that his friend recommended him to travel to India.
Meanwhile, a private agency engaged in medical tourism says that visa enquiries for treatment in India are very high.
“More and more Omanis want to visit India as it is an affordable and trusted destination for medicare. Many persons whom we gave the Indian option are quite happy after their return. The medical facilities in India are the best,- Hassan Mohsin Al Lawati, chairman of Al Furdha Services, said.
During the last six months, Al Furdha Services has assisted more than 50 Omanis for treatment in India.
Recently, there were media reports that the government of India is planning to provide “visa on arrival- facilities to the GCC nationals as part of a major drive to attract tourists from the Gulf region.
According to reports, Sultan Ahmed, Indian Minister of State for Tourism, said in Dubai, the government is planning to extend it to more countries, particularly the GCC nations from where Asia’s third largest economy is drawing steadily increasing inbound traffic.
India is already providing visa on arrival facility to 17 nationalities.
“As the minister said, if India begins to offer visa on arrival for the GCC nationals, then it will be a boon for India. More people means more revenue. Hope, this plan is implemented soon,- Shaji Sebastin, an Indian expatriate, said.
source: http://www.timesofoman.com / Home> News / by Rejimon K / July 17th, 2012
