Centre Rolls Out Health Declaration Portal At Airports Following Ebola Scare Alert

In response to concerns over an Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, the Government of India has launched an upgraded digital health screening system for international travellers arriving at airports. The Civil Aviation Ministry, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), introduced the AIR SUVIDHA 2.0 portal to enhance public health surveillance and streamline passenger screening at points of entry.

The upgraded system requires all international passengers to submit a mandatory online health self-declaration before completing immigration procedures. The form includes details such as a 21-day travel history, exposure to affected regions, and any relevant symptoms. Officials said the move is aimed at strengthening early detection of potential health risks while maintaining a smooth and contactless airport experience.

According to the Health Ministry, the AIR SUVIDHA 2.0 platform allows real-time data sharing with key agencies including Airport Health Officers, the Bureau of Immigration, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), and State Surveillance Officers. This integrated system is designed to quickly identify and refer at-risk travellers for further medical evaluation, reducing delays and minimising manual paperwork at arrival terminals.

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The government has advised passengers to complete the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form (SDF) within 24 hours prior to arrival in India, preferably during web check-in. Travellers will be required to present the downloaded declaration at immigration or the international travel health desk for verification, ensuring faster processing and improved compliance with health screening requirements.

The initiative follows the World Health Organization’s declaration of the Ebola/Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern under the International Health Regulations. Authorities have identified neighbouring regions, including South Sudan, as high-risk zones, prompting enhanced vigilance and preventive measures across international travel hubs.

Officials said the upgraded system reflects India’s broader effort to modernise border health security infrastructure while balancing public safety with efficient passenger movement. The platform is expected to remain in use as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen preparedness against future infectious disease outbreaks and global health emergencies.

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