Information on India's Three-Colored Passports: Recipients, Criteria, and Explanation
The Indian passport system offers three types of travel documents: blue, white, and red. Each catering to specific needs and requirements.
The blue passport, the standard travel document for Indian citizens, has recently been upgraded to an e-passport, featuring an embedded biometric chip. This enhancement offers enhanced security and faster immigration clearance, making travel more seamless for regular citizens.
On the other hand, the white passport is issued to Indian government officials, civil servants, and military personnel for official travel. It has also been upgraded to the e-passport format, ensuring the same level of security.
The red passport, however, holds a special significance. It is issued to Indian diplomats, senior government officials, and their eligible family members. This prestigious passport grants diplomatic privileges such as expedited visa processing and visa-free entry to several countries. The red Indian passport known as Type D is used for diplomatic, official, or service purposes and often denotes a long-duration visa or travel document issued for extended stays or official assignments.
The process for applying for white and red passports is more stringent, requiring government-issued ID, a duty certificate, an official forwarding letter, and clearance from the Prime Minister's Office.
Meanwhile, the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, holds its own secrets. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal between 1631 and 1648, the iconic monument is not just a symbol of love, but also a testament to architectural brilliance. The Taj Mahal's underground tomb chamber houses the actual sarcophagus of Mumtaz Mahal. However, for preservation and security reasons, this chamber is off-limits to tourists.
In essence, the Indian passport system offers a range of options for travel, while the Taj Mahal continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur and mystery.
