Raxaul’s authorisation as India’s first land entry point for e-visa holders marks a decisive step towards enabling true cross-border tourism across Eastern South Asia. Debjit Dutta, Chairman, IATO West Bengal Chapter, says, “For long, the industry has highlighted that limiting e-visas to air and sea ports constrained overland travel and regional circuit development across East and Northeast India and the sub-Himalayan eastern neighbours of Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. This reform unlocks seamless movement across borders.”
Dutta added, “Coupled with the extension of the e-Tourist Visa application window to 120 days, India is clearly signalling its intent to build a more inclusive, accessible, and regionally integrated inbound tourism framework. A pragmatic policy shift — but one with far-reaching impact for Eastern and Northeast India and the wider sub-Himalayan region.”
With over 17 years of experience in the B2B travel and hospitality sector, she brings deep insight into travel trade dynamics, industry challenges and market developments. She holds an MA in English Literature and a Diploma in Journalism from the Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, which underpin her strong editorial expertise. An avid nature enthusiast, she prefers outdoor and adventure-led travel, including hiking and trekking.
