Restrictions on Mercury-Filled Thermometers on Indian Flights

Ban on Mercury-Filled Thermometers on Indian Flights

Travelers heading to or from India with certain items need to be aware of specific restrictions that impact what can be brought aboard flights. A key restriction that often goes unnoticed until the last moment involves mercury-filled items like thermometers and barometers.

However, most modern liquid-filled thermometers now use alcohol instead of mercury, and thus are not subject to the restrictions.

Why the Restriction?

Mercury-filled thermometers and similar devices are prohibited on flights in India due to the inherent risks associated with mercury, a substance that can be highly dangerous. These instruments contain mercury that could potentially leak when subjected to the changes in pressure and temperature typical of air travel. Such a leak could pose serious safety hazards, including contamination and the risk of fire.

The Science Behind the Rule

The concern primarily lies with mercury’s properties and behavior under flight conditions. As an aircraft ascends or descends, significant changes in temperature and pressure occur. Mercury, being highly sensitive to such changes, can expand or contract, potentially leading to a breach in the containment of the thermometer or barometer. This could release mercury vapor into the cabin, a toxiac substance harmful to both passengers and the environment.

Mercury has a corrosive effect on aluminum, which is a primary material used in aircraft construction. Should a mercury thermometer break aboard an aircraft, the released mercury could start to corrode the aluminum components. This corrosion can be severe and, if not addressed promptly, could potentially compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft, leading to catastrophic outcomes. Therefore, the presence of mercury on aircraft is not only hazardous but could also be destructive if containment fails.

Alternative Solutions

Travelers needing to measure temperature or atmospheric pressure can opt for digital devices, which are safe and permissible on flights. These alternatives do not contain mercury and thus pose no risk in terms of leakage or toxicity.

Practical Tips for Compliance

• Check your devices: Before packing, ensure that none of your items contain mercury.
• Seek alternatives: Opt for digital or alcohol-filled thermometers.
• Stay informed: Regulations may update or change, so checking the latest travel guidelines from your airline or the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is prudent.

Thermometers requiring mercury have largely been phased out. None of the medical or culinary items in our home contain mercury anymore.

While the restrictions on mercury-filled thermometers and other such items might complicate preparations for some travelers, they are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers aboard. By opting for safer alternatives and staying informed about travel regulations, you can ensure a smooth and safe journey on Indian flights.

Restricted and Banned Electronic devices in India Flights

 Electronic Devices Ban on Planes: India Safety Regulations

 

Air travel has become a staple of contemporary life, bringing unmatched convenience and speed to our journeys across the globe. Yet, within this realm of ease, strict rules ensure our safety, particularly regarding the electronic gadgets we may carry onboard. This article aims to shed light on the rationale behind electronic device restrictions on airplanes, highlight the gadgets affected, and offer advice for adhering to these rules.

Numerous everyday items found in homes or workplaces might appear innocuous, but when carried on an aircraft, they pose significant risks. Changes in temperature and pressure experienced during flight can lead to these items leaking, emitting harmful gases, or igniting a fire. 

The Rationale for Banning Electronic Devices on Indian Flights

The primary reason for prohibiting certain electronic devices on aircraft is safety. These devices can emit electromagnetic signals that might interfere with the aircraft's navigation and communication systems, potentially jeopardizing flight safety. Regulatory bodies, therefore, enforce restrictions on the use and transportation of specific electronic devices to minimize this risk.

Navigating Compliance

• Know the Airline's Policy: Check the electronic device policy of your airline before you travel. Each airline may have different rules regarding gadgets, so it's crucial to be informed.

• Heed Flight Crew Instructions: Follow the flight crew's directions about your devices. They're trained to ensure your safety and will advise on the proper use and storage of your gadgets.

• Be Ready to Power Down: Expect to turn off your devices during critical flight stages like takeoff and landing. Though it may be a hassle, it's vital for the safety of everyone aboard.

Understanding Restrictions

• Mobile Phones: Allowed but must be in airplane mode during the flight. They should be turned off and stored during takeoff and landing.

   

• Laptops and Tablets: These should be kept in carry-on luggage during takeoff and landing to avoid accidents with loose items in the cabin. Usage might be restricted on some flights.

   

• Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs): Devices like e-readers and gaming consoles are usually permitted, but guidelines for their use and storage must be followed.

   

• Wearable Tech: Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers are generally allowed, though certain functions may need to be disabled. They should also be in airplane mode.

•  

  Power Banks: Usually allowed in carry-on luggage, but capacity restrictions may apply. Always check with your airline for specific rules.

Prohibited Items

• Samsung Galaxy Note 7: Banned globally due to battery fire risks.

   

• Hoverboards: Prohibited because of the fire hazards posed by their lithium-ion batteries.

   

• High-Powered Laser Pointers: Not allowed because of the danger they pose to eyesight and potential to distract pilots.

   

• Portable Chargers: Restrictions on capacity exist to prevent fire risks.

   

• Radioactive Materials, Tasers, Stun Guns, Toy Weapons: All banned for safety and security reasons.

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  E-cigarettes: Most airlines restrict the use of e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, assorted personal vaporizers, all categories of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), products that heat without burning, e-hookah, and devices of a similar nature, due to the risk of fires and the potential discomfort they could cause to fellow travelers.

   

  Spare Lithium Batteries: Banned from checked luggage if over 100 watt-hours, due to fire risk.

   

  Batteries or fuel cells, such as lithium, non-spillable, nickel-metal hydride, and dry batteries, are allowed if their watt-hour rating does not exceed 100 Wh.

  Each passenger is permitted to carry up to two spare batteries.

  Batteries up to 100 Wh:

• Lithium Metal Batteries: Must contain less than 2 g of lithium metal.

• Lithium-Ion Batteries: The watt-hour rating should not be over 100 Wh.

•  

  Spare Batteries: Passengers may also bring batteries removed from their devices, limited to two spares per individual.

Batteries over 100 Wh:

• For batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, including those in Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) and Portable Medical Electronic Devices (PMEDs), the lithium content must not exceed 8 g. A limit of two such batteries is allowed.

Smart Luggage with installed lithium batteries and those with non-removable batteries exceeding 0.3 g of lithium metal or 2.7 Wh are subject to specific regulations.  

By grasping the reasons for these restrictions, familiarizing yourself with airline policies, and adhering to crew directions, you can enjoy a seamless and secure flight experience. As technology advances, staying informed and flexible is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of air travel regulations.

Unsafe and Restricted Items: Air India 

 2017 Electronics Ban 

What is not allowed to bring in India?

Prohibited Items You Can't Bring into India
 

 

Traveling to India presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights. However, as with any international travel, understanding and respecting local laws and regulations, especially concerning what you can and cannot bring into the country, is crucial. India has strict customs regulations designed to protect its cultural heritage, economy, and environment. Knowing these rules can help ensure your entry into India is as smooth as the serene waters of the Ganges. Here’s a comprehensive guide on items prohibited from entering the borders of India.

Absolutely Prohibited Items

Certain items are outright banned from being brought into India, under any circumstances. These include:

• Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances: Unsurprisingly, carrying drugs into India is strictly prohibited, with severe penalties for violations.
• Wildlife Products: The import of wildlife and wildlife products is banned, including ivory, fur, and certain animal skins. This measure is in place to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species.
• Counterfeit Currency and Goods: Carrying fake currency notes or counterfeit branded goods into India is illegal and subject to strict penalties.
• Pornographic Material: Any form of pornographic material is not allowed to be brought into India. This includes books, magazines, films, and any digital media.

Restricted Items

Some items may be brought into India but are subject to certain restrictions and may require a special license or permission:

• Firearms and Ammunition: Bringing weapons and ammunition into India is strictly controlled and allowed only with specific authorization from the Indian government.
• Wireless Equipment: Importing satellite phones or drones without prior permission from the Department of Telecommunications in India is prohibited.
• Medications: While travelers are allowed to bring in medications for personal use, there are restrictions on certain drugs, especially narcotics and psychotropics. A prescription or a medical certificate is required to carry such medications.

Food and Agricultural Products

To protect India's agricultural sectors from foreign pests and diseases, there are strict regulations on importing:

• Seeds, Plants, and Fruits: The import of seeds, plants, and fruits is highly regulated and generally requires a phytosanitary certificate to ensure they are free from pests.
• Meat and Meat Products: The import of meat and meat products, including poultry, is restricted to prevent the spread of diseases like avian influenza.

Cultural Artifacts and Antiquities

India prohibits the export of its cultural artifacts and antiquities to preserve its rich heritage. While this primarily affects items being taken out of India, it also influences what can be brought in, especially if items could be considered part of another country's heritage.

General Guidelines for Travelers

• Declare All Items: When in doubt, declare your items. It's always better to be transparent with customs officials to avoid any potential issues.
• Check for Updates: Customs regulations can change, so it's advisable to check the latest guidelines from the Indian Customs website before your trip.
• Consider Cultural Sensitivities: India is a country with deep cultural and religious sensibilities. Avoid bringing in items that could be considered offensive or disrespectful.

Understanding what is not allowed to bring into India is essential for any traveler wishing to explore this diverse and beautiful country. By respecting these regulations, you contribute to the preservation of India’s environment, cultural heritage, and public health. Always plan ahead, stay informed, and when in doubt, consult the Indian Customs website or contact the nearest Indian consulate for guidance. Safe travels, and welcome to India—a land of remarkable diversity and tradition!

 Delhi Airport Customs

Temporary Banned Items by Indian Customs

From time to time India Customs ban certain item for security reasons

Navigating through customs regulations can be a complex task, especially when it comes to understanding the nuances of temporary bans on certain items. In recent times, India, like many countries, has adapted its customs policies to address various concerns ranging from health and safety to environmental and security issues. These adaptations often result in the temporary prohibition of specific items to safeguard the interests of its citizens and the environment. This article sheds light on the nature of these temporary bans, providing insights into why certain items might be restricted and the impact of these regulations on travelers and importers alike.

Understanding Temporary Bans

Temporary bans by Indian Customs are typically enacted in response to immediate concerns or to comply with international agreements. These bans can affect a wide range of items - from agricultural products to high-tech gadgets, depending on the issue at hand. The reasons behind temporary bans often include public health emergencies, environmental threats, security concerns, and the need to protect local industries.

Common Categories of Temporarily Banned Items

1. Agricultural Products
To prevent the spread of diseases and pests that can affect local crops and biodiversity, Indian Customs occasionally imposes temporary bans on the import of certain plants, seeds, and agricultural products.

2. Electronics and Gadgets
Certain electronics or gadgets might be temporarily banned if they pose security risks or if they're found to be non-compliant with India's regulatory standards for electronic items.

3. Chemicals and Substances
Chemicals that pose health, safety, or environmental risks can be subject to temporary restrictions until thorough assessments are conducted to evaluate their impact.

4. Medications and Health Supplements
Temporary bans on specific medications or health supplements might be enforced if concerns arise regarding their safety, efficacy, or potential for misuse.

The Impact of Temporary Bans

For travelers and importers, staying informed about temporary bans is crucial to avoid delays, confiscations, or legal issues when entering India. These bans can significantly impact:

Travelers who might carry items that are temporarily banned without realizing it, leading to potential inconveniences at customs checkpoints.
Businesses and Importers who deal in goods that are suddenly subject to a temporary ban, affecting supply chains and necessitating quick adaptation to comply with the new regulations.

Staying Informed
The dynamic nature of temporary bans means that what might be allowed today could be restricted tomorrow. To stay ahead:

• Regularly check updates from the Indian Customs Department through their official website or notifications.
• Consult with customs brokers or legal advisors who specialize in customs and import laws to ensure compliance with current regulations.
• Utilize apps or online platforms dedicated to providing real-time updates on customs regulations worldwide.

Temporary bans by Indian Customs serve as a protective measure, ensuring the well-being of its citizens and the environment. While these bans can sometimes cause inconvenience, they are necessary for addressing immediate and emergent concerns. Being proactive, staying informed, and seeking professional advice are key strategies to navigate the complexities of customs regulations successfully. As global circumstances evolve, so do customs policies, reflecting the ongoing commitment of nations like India to safeguard their borders and their people.

Prohibited and Restricted Goods

India Customs Prohibited Items

The term “Prohibited Goods” has been defined in sub-section 33 of Section 2 of the Customs Act as meaning “any goods the import or export of which is subject to any prohibition under the Customs Act or any other law for the time being in force”

Travelling to India with Drone


Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV


Toy Helicopters Ban
Recently 6,000 toy helicopters confiscated from passengers over the last two years.



Certain goods are prohibited (banned) or restricted (subject to certain conditions) for import and/or export.  These are goods of social, health, environment, wild life and security concerns. Some of them are listed below:  

Prohibited Goods

• Satellite Phone
• Antiquities 
• Wild life products
• Human skeleton
• Specified sea-shells
• Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
• Pornographic and obscene material
• Counterfeit and pirated goods and goods infringing any of the legally enforceable intellectual property rights
• Aero models (such as remote controlled toy helicopters) that operate on high radio bandwidths because of their
• possible interference with the communication networks of security agencies.
• Indian coins which are covered by the Antique and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
• Maps and literature where Indian external boundaries have been shown incorrectly, in view of Government of India.
• Chemicals mentioned in Schedule 1 to the Chemical Weapons Convention of U.N. 1993.
• Beef, tallow, fat/oil of animal origin
• Exotic birds except a few specified ones
• Wild animals, their parts and products
• Specified Live birds and animals

 
Restricted Goods

• Drones
• Medicines and drugs
• Firearms and ammunition
• Live birds and animals including pets
• Plants and their produce e.g. fruits, seeds            
• Endangered species of plants and animals, whether live or dead.  
• Any goods for commercial purpose: for profit, gain or commercial usage.            
• Radio transmitters not approved for normal usage            
• Gold and Silver, other than ornaments (for import only)           
• Currency in excess of prescribed limits
• Telephone and telephony equipments of restricted frequencies
• Certain Animals - Camel, Horses, Cattle
• Semi processed hides and skins
• Silk worms, silk worm seeds and cocoons
• Family Planning Devices (NOC from Ministry of Health Required)
• Vintage products, replicas of antiques or weapons
• Sand and soil
• Whole human blood plasma and certain products derived from human blood
• Sandal-wood (except handicraft products & oil)

Import and export of some specified goods may be restricted/ prohibited under other laws such as Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, Foreign Trade Policy Environment Protection Act, Wild Life Act, Indian Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, Arms Act, etc. Prohibition under those acts will also apply to the penal provisions of the Customs Act, rendering such goods liable to confiscation under section 111(d) of the Customs Act (for import) and 113 (d) of the Customs Act (for export).

Manual: Import / Export Restrictions / Prohibitions under Customs law

Export of most species of wild life and articles made from flora and fauna such as Ivory, Musk, Reptile skins, Furs, Shahtoosh etc. is prohibited. For any clarifications passenger should approach the Regional Deputy Director (Wildlife Preservation) Govt. of India or the Chief Wildlife Wardens of State Governments posted at Calcutta, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Prohibition on Export of Indian coins :-
No person shall take or send out of India the Indian coins which are covered by the Antique and Art Treasure Act, 1972.

Prohibition on export and import of foreign currency :-
Except as otherwise provided in these regulations, no person shall, without the general or special permission of the Reserve Bank, export or send out of India, or import or bring into India, any foreign currency.


Whenever planning to bring or take any unusual item please enquire about its permissibility for export or import before undertaking the journey. It’s a smart move to do so from both ports, exit and destination so that to ensure that you are inconformity with laws of both countries.

Export and import of currency to or from Nepal and Bhutan :-

Notwithstanding anything contained in these regulations, a person may –

• take or send out of India to Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes of Government of India and Reserve Bank of India notes (other than notes of denominations of above Rs.100 in either case) ;
• bring into India from Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes of Government of India and Reserve Bank of India notes (other than notes of denominations of above Rs.100 in either case) ;
• take out of India to Nepal or Bhutan, or bring into India from Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes being the currency of Nepal or Bhutan.