Marathi-language daily *Maharashtra Times* released a detailed video explainer on 15 October 2026 highlighting the features of India’s **Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)**, underscoring a fresh government push to widen adoption. The Bureau of Immigration confirmed to the paper that active enrolments have crossed 750,000, a 25 % jump since July after airlines began texting passengers a registration link at the time of ticket purchase. Under FTI-TTP, eligible Indian passport holders and OCI card-holders can pre-register biometric and travel details, then clear immigration at 13 major airports via automated e-gates in under 30 seconds. The programme complements—but is distinct from—DigiYatra, which covers domestic security lanes. Recent software updates allow applicants to track status via WhatsApp and schedule biometrics at any FRRO, not just airports. For corporates running high-frequency shuttle trips, the benefit is tangible: a typical Mumbai–Singapore commuter saves roughly 40 minutes per round trip, translating into lower duty-time costs. Companies can bulk-register employees; once approved, memberships are valid for 10 years and can be linked to new passports online. Travel-risk managers should remind staff that FTI-TTP does not waive visa requirements for foreigners entering India and that enrolment data are shared with security agencies under the IVFRT framework. Privacy advocates note that the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2025 gives travellers the right to request deletion of biometric data upon membership expiry. The Home Ministry is reportedly considering expanding e-gate coverage to Pune and Jaipur airports in early 2027 and enabling reciprocal fast-track lanes with Singapore’s Changi and the UAE’s Smart Gate programme—moves that could make Indian frequent-traveller credentials part of a broader regional trusted-traveller ecosystem.
Source: Maharashtra Times
