The Indian High Commissions, Embassies and Consulates across the world are the first point of contact for Indian Citizens, those of Indian Origin and foreign nationals who desire to travel to India for Tourism and even Trade. These foreign missions should leave a lasting good impression on those visiting them.
Some foreign Missions may be doing a good job, but unfortunately, there is a public perception that all is not well and that there is room for improvement. Having had the opportunity of visiting the Indian Embassy in Lisbon, what was observed was undesirable and absolutely unacceptable. Visitors should never be considered a burden. Every visitor should be dealt with pragmatically and courteously, the focus being on finding a solution to a grievance. Understandably having the needed security in place but ending the red tape would go a long way towards presenting a positive image.
While it is imperative that rules and regulations be rigorously enforced, some common sense and judicious discretion must prevail in finding a practical solution keeping in mind the facts and circumstances of every visitor coming to a diplomatic mission. It would be nice if Indians moving to new countries could be advised and guided so that it facilitates their settling down in a new environment.
In Rome you do as the Romans do, so it would be nice to see high levels of courtesy, politeness and due diligence at all Indian Missions abroad while seeing them zealously and enthusiastically striving to serve the diaspora scattered worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar could oversee this happening.
