NEW YORK (Diya TV) — The Consulate General of India in New York has issued new advisories to protect travelers and the Indian diaspora from rising digital scams and to clarify new entry procedures for foreign nationals. Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan shared the updates on Wednesday, urging everyone to stay alert and rely only on official sources for accurate information.
Ambassador Pradhan said the Consulate is receiving increasing reports of scam calls. Fraudsters are impersonating Consulate officials and pressuring people to share personal details or make payments. They often use spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.
He urged the community to stay cautious. The Consulate never asks for personal information or payments over the phone. He encouraged anyone who receives such a call to hang up and report it to local authorities. He also reminded the public to check updates only on the Consulate’s official website and verified social media accounts.
The Consulate also announced a new digital e-Arrival Card for foreign nationals traveling to India. The online form is now mandatory for all international travelers, including Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cardholders. Officials said the new process will help speed up immigration checks at Indian airports.
Travelers must complete the e-Arrival Card before they reach India. The digital system aims to reduce wait times and improve accuracy during entry screening. The Consulate encouraged travelers to review the requirements early to avoid delays during their trip.
Ambassador Pradhan also clarified that OCI cardholders do not need a visa to enter India. He said their travel rights remain unchanged. OCI cardholders continue to enjoy multiple-entry, multi-purpose travel benefits. The Consulate issued the clarification after rumors circulated about possible changes to OCI rules. Pradhan said the Consulate wants travelers to feel confident about the process. He encouraged OCI cardholders to keep their documents updated and to monitor official channels for any future changes.
The advisories come at a time when scam calls targeting the Indian diaspora in the United States are growing. Many victims report that callers threaten them with deportation, arrest, or legal action. The callers often demand money to “resolve” fake violations. These threats cause panic, especially among students, new immigrants, and elderly residents.
The Consulate said it has seen similar cases for years, but recent incidents appear more aggressive. It previously released a video message from Ambassador Pradhan asking the community to stay vigilant and report any cases immediately. He noted that quick reporting helps police investigate scams and protect others from falling victim.
The Consulate stressed the importance of staying informed through trusted sources. Officials warned that misinformation spreads quickly online, especially in messaging groups and social media channels. They encouraged travelers and diaspora members to double-check any advisories before acting on them. Ambassador Pradhan said the Consulate remains committed to supporting Indian nationals and friends of India in the United States. The mission continues to work with federal and local agencies to track scam trends and raise awareness.
Travelers planning to visit India should complete the digital e-Arrival Card ahead of time and keep all travel documents ready. The Consulate advised passengers to follow updates from India’s immigration authorities as well. Officials expect the new system to improve airport efficiency once travelers adjust to the process.
The Consulate also encouraged the diaspora to speak with family members about scam awareness. Clear communication can help prevent fraud, especially among seniors who may be more vulnerable to threats and intimidation tactics.
