During her official visit to Mauritius, India’s President Draupadi Murmu unveiled a significant decision benefiting the Indian-origin populace residing in the island nation.
The approval for granting Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards to individuals up to the 7th generation of Indian origin marks a significant milestone, offering a unique connection to their ancestral homeland.
Understanding OCI Card
The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme was established to address the persistent calls for ‘dual citizenship’ among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and cater to their aspirations.
Introduced in 2006 during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Conference, OCI provides a special privilege to people of Indian origin settled abroad, allowing them visa-free entry into India, underscoring their enduring affinity towards their motherland.
Transition from PIO to OCI
Previously, the Government of India had introduced the Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card in 2003, aimed at facilitating NRIs.
However, in 2015, the PIO card provision was discontinued, with the government opting to continue the use of OCI cards, offering a more comprehensive and streamlined process for overseas Indians.
Eligibility and Regulations
Eligibility for OCI card is subject to specific criteria, including the individual or their parents being Indian citizens, and residence in certain designated countries.
Notably, citizens of Indian origin residing in countries like Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are excluded from OCI privileges.
Limitations of OCI Card
Despite its benefits, OCI card holders are restricted from engaging in certain activities within India, such as purchasing agricultural land, contesting elections, exercising voting rights, or holding government appointments or constitutional posts.
Application Process
Interested individuals can apply for OCI registration online through the official website ociservices.gov.in.
Eligible applicants include those who were Indian citizens at the time of India’s Constitution coming into force, individuals qualified to become Indian citizens then, or descendants of territories that became part of India post-August 15, 1947.
