Indians in Singapore

Indians in Singapore have come to form a large part of the population compared to the number of original Singaporeans. Interestingly, the large population of Indian expatriates and those born in Singapore has greatly impacted positively to the overall growth of the Singaporean economy; and most importantly the population. The original influx of Indians to Singapore was largely triggered by civil unrest in Indian itself. This forced a number of people to flee their homes for the safety of nearby Singapore. Some of the major reasons for the influx of the Indian population in Singapore include:

Skilled Workers

India has a large economy and well-developed industries that produce well-trained experts and skilled workers. Therefore, due to high unemployment rates and a huge population, Indians have come to Singapore to look for work and escape poverty. Singapore, on the other hand, is a developing country with a less skilled populace that has to import expertise from outside their borders to stimulate the economy. This explains the huge population of Indians in Singapore

Population

Indians in Singapore form part of the majority of the population which is not entirely Singaporean. It is a mixture of different groups including Mulay and Banglar. Singapore has no strong ancestral ties and thus the influx of other nationalities has formed a huge multi-national population. More Indians have established homes and permanent residences in Singapore due to its close proximity and unrestricted free entry into Singapore.

Multinationals and Foreign Recruiters

India has many large industries and multinational companies that have established subsidiaries in Singapore. These multinationals recruit workers (mostly Indians) from home before deploying them to Singapore. This has also largely contributed to the influx of Indian workers and expatriates (One Visa), in the various industries and companies within Singapore. Indians form a big percentage of workers, both skilled and non-skilled, in the factories and manufacturing plants.

            Visa Restriction

Being a neighboring country to Singapore, Indians have been accorded less restricted visa entry requirements. Sudden surges of immigrants into Singapore have been witnessed over the years for various reasons. However, the non-restricted visa entry requirements have greatly encouraged a rise in migration of Indians into Singapore for work-related engagements. Apart from Visa entry points within Singapore, porous borders have also enabled more Indians to come to Singapore.

Negative publicity

Despite the hard work and various engagement by the Indian population in Singapore, Singapore nationals have raised concerns about the influx of Indians into the country. Indians have been accused of taking up jobs meant for Singaporeans. In almost all sectors, you will not be able to miss Indians, and more so in businesses. Indians send huge sums of money home for development and family support. This has caused tension and animosity between the nationals and foreign Indians.

 Conclusion

Indians form a large part of the overall Singapore population and it will be impossible to kill their interests or even stop them from expanding.  The best idea is to embrace them and co-exist with them.

3 Days Bali Travel Guide for Indian Travellers

If you are in a mood to explore someplace that has stunning beaches, magical temples and is rich in natural beauty, then Bali should be on the top of your list. This small Indonesian island is magical with its forested volcanic mountains. Known for yoga and meditation retreats and lively bars, Bali is the perfect place to celebrate life. Indians have a love for beaches and incomparable craze for a tropical destination like Bali.

Do Indians need a visa to travel to Bali?

If you are travelling for a duration less than 30 days, then visa is exempted. Valid for 30 days, this is valid for Single-Entry and cannot be extended.

There is a visa on arrival for Indians who wish to travel to Bali for a period of 30-60 days.

Why Travel Insurance is important for Bali Trip?

Travel Insurance for Bali is not necessary but it will be wise to carry one on your international trip. In absence of an International travel insurance policy, you will need to spend a lot of money for all kinds of eventualities like medical emergency, loss of cash, passport or baggage. The insurer makes sure that your trip goes smoothly despite the odds. 

Popular Places to Visit in Bali

To enliven the senses of your body, Bali is a perfect destination for you. Visit some of these places to make it an accomplished three days’ holiday for you. Here’s a 3-day literary for a trip to Bali from India.

Day 1 – Mount Batur and Uluwatu Temple

It is a sacred active volcano that lies in the Kintamani district in Bali’s Central Highland. You can visit the mountain top to view the sunrise amidst the mist in the mountains. An hour drive from Ubud but a 1700 meters trek up to the summit for nature lovers. Hiking takes nearly 2-3 hours for travellers to reach. On the way, you can visit Lake Batur also. This is the only water source for irrigation on the island.

Next, make a move to Uluwatu Temple“Ulu” means tip and “Watu” refers to rock. Uluwatu is one of the main attractions in Bali. The best time to visit here is the sunset. It has a mythological relevance that says that the temple protects Bali from evil sea spirits. It is 25 km from Kuta.

Day 2 – Ubud Monkey Forest and Agung Rai Museum

Another solemnized destination in Bali is Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It is a 10-minute walk south of the town centre in Ubud. After you complete your trip to sanctuary, you should visit the Agung Rai Museum that spans traditional to the latest works.

Day 3 – Waterbom Bali and Seminyak Shopping

Action-packed water park in the heart of Kuta will be your major entertainment spot especially if you are there with kids. Once you are tired of water fun, push off for shopping. Bali is known for its astounding shopping in the streets of Seminyak. You will get the flashy designer dresses from Biasa, Bamboo and Blonde, and Magali Pascal.

Top things/activities to do in Bali

Bali is a place with some religious relevance also. After you are accomplished to visit tourist spots, you can try some of these activities.

• Try surfing in Bali.
• Hot Air Balloon ride in Ubud.
• Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
• Relax on any of the beaches.
• Take a trip to Nuda Penida.
• Rent a scooter and explore Bali as much as possible.

Things to carry when travelling to Bali

Before you leave for Bali, Indonesia you must pack these essentials to have unstoppable fun.

1. Passport Copy
2. Tickets and reservation copies for all hotels.
3. Travel Insurance for Bali from India – both soft and hard copy
4. Camera and extra batteries.
5. Chargers and cables for all the gadgets.
6. Cash and cards.
7. A map if you want to explore the place yourself.
8. A torch.
9. Daily essentials like soap, shampoo, etc.
10. Medicines which you take daily.

Seven interesting places you should visit in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is among those important Indian states you should not ignore when you when you visit India. After all, it is also known as the ‘Land of the Kings’, or ‘Rajputana’, and it happens to be the largest state in the country. In fact, its land area covers 10.4 percent of the country or 342,239 square kilometers, making it just below the size of Germany.

However, much of the state is covered by the great Indian desert of Thar, which is parallel to the valley of the Sutlej-Indus rivers. Because of the state’s history, each area within it has different styles of arts that make it highly diverse, so read on to find out some of those places you should put on your bucket list.

Kota

Aside from holding the title of the state that makes one of the lightest sarees in India known as Kota Doria (these are made from a mixture of silk and cotton and made in checked patterns known as khat), this place is also the third-largest city in the state. it is located on the banks of the Chambal River, and is widely known for its unique approach to art through its places of worship, paintings and so on; as well as the sarees, gold jewellery, and the famous Kota stones.

The history of the city goes back to the 12^th Century, and it became an independent state from 1631 – although it has a long history of raids by the Marathas, Mughals and so on.

Some interesting places to visit include Garh Palace (also known as the City Palace) that showcases the combination of Mughal and Rajput architecture, Kota Barrage that gives you an interesting view of water flowing through its gates, and Chambal Garden that is popular for its boat rides and the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary to protect the marsh crocodiles.

Jaipur

 This is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan, with its history dating back to 1727 and known as the ‘Pink city of India’ because of its distinct pink or saffron buildings. It has well designed streets and great buildings that make it a popular tourist destination in the country.

Even if you are the most average tourist, Jaipur still offers you many things, including its culture, crafts and arts that happen to have more than 20 specialties. Some of these places include Jal Mahal, City Palace, Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, and the Jantar Mantar. In fact, this city has so many sites, you might want to create an itinerary that covers at least two days for it alone.

Udaipur

You might also know this as the ‘Venice of the East’, although it is more common to call it ‘The City of Lakes’. It was the capital of the Sisodiya Rajputs from Mewar, so it contains many palaces that bear the unique aspects of Rajputana architecture. The city was founded in 1553, while the Mewar Rajputs built palaces in this city as it was more secure for them (although these palaces are hotels today).

The location of the city is on the base of the Aravalli Mountains, and it contains various temples that are the cause of its increasing popularity with tourists. These attractions include Lake Garden Palace, Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Bore Ki Haveli, and Mati Magri. 

Jaisalmer 

Also referred to as ‘The Golden City’ because of the daytime views it has, it is located in the middle of the Thar Desert. Its name derives from the desert itself as well as the golden colour sandstone that is prominently used in the architecture of the city.

The most interesting aspect of the city would be its architecture, though. Because of its history as a walled city, it is among the biggest forts in the world today – and that means you need quite a number of days to explore the city completely. There are also many eateries that offer cuisines from around the world such as French and Italian. Other attractions include Gadisar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes and Bada Bagh.

Jodhpur

This is the second largest city and second highest in population in the state. the history of the city dates back to 1549, and it is known as ‘The Sun City’ because it enjoys sunny weather throughout the year. It is also a very important tourist destination because it is located at the center of the state.

Some of these attractions include the Jaisalmer Fort, various Jain Temples, Thar Heritage Museum, Patwon-Ki-Haveli and the Thar Heritage Museum. 

Pushkar 

This is among the holy cities in India (thought of as one of the top cities of pilgrimage sites in the country) and is located on the shores of Lake Pushkar. In fact, its origin is largely unknown and it is among the oldest cities in the country that bears heavy associations to Hindu mythology.

According to the religion, the lake waters are thought of as sacred, although that is not the only thing that brings people to this town – it is actually the camel fair and camel races. Others include Man Mahal, Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple and Varaha Temple.

Bikaner

The city dates back to 1488, thanks to the Rajput Ruler Rao Bika, who was the son of the Rajput that founded Jodhpur, Rao Jodha. It has also seen its fair share of ancient wars in its past, but is now known for its snacks and sweets, as well as forts.

The crafts and arts are also special from the rest of the state, such as the jharokhas, or windowpanes that have very detailed carvings. If you would like to get the actual taste of rajasthani cuisine, then Bikaner is the place you should visit. The city also holds a large number of fairs that attract many tourists.

Some of the attractions include Sadul Singh Museum, Lalgarh Palace, Ganga Singh Museum, and Junagarh Fort.

Final thoughts

Rajasthan is clearly a state that has numerous attractions that are too many to exhaust in this list alone, and it will offer you a real treat in each of them. Each city within it has a different history, and the many aspects of its regal history are enough to keep you occupied for days.

Must Explore Hidden Places of South Goa

A popular beach destination, the Party Capital of India and a paradise to unwind– Goa is all of that and more. Regular tourists who visit Goa frequently go to the famous places like – the Baga Beach, Tito’s Bar, Calangute, Vagator, Anjuna, Fort Aquada and others. But if you are riveted by lesser known places then Goa has a lot more to offer. There are several hidden places in South Goa which are isolated and are visited by just few.

South Goa offers you the quiet and calmer side of Goa. Goa is a must place if you like beach holidays. With Goa, you can combine a beach holiday at the same time you can have all the fun of India has to offer like great food, shopping bazaars, bars and great night clubs on the beach.

Here are few must explore hidden places of South Goa for you!

Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach is no less of a paradise, and it is also one of the secret beaches in South Goa. The Cabo de Rama Fort is a major attraction close to the beach. Sprawling over a stretch of three kilometers of golden sand, it is an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. If you are looking for some peace and solitude then head to the Agonda Beach, you won’t be disappointed.

Why Visit? A perfect place to unwind and enjoy the solitude you have been craving. It is also a popular spot for angling. Soormai, Salmon, and Mullet are frequent catches.

Location: Canacona Taluka, South Goa district.

Agonda beach: Image by Aleksandr Zykov

Rivona Cave

Most people know about the Portugal history of Goa, but very few are aware of its connection to Buddhism. Visit Rivona Caves to find out more about this part of the Goan history. Also, known as Pandava caves, it is believed that Buddhist Monks constructed these caves in the 6^th century. The cave has a stone sculpture of Buddha in ‘Bhumisparsha’ posture.

Why Visit? Considered as one of the few examples of the Buddhist history visible in Goa today.

Location: Situated in the village of Rivona, South Goa district.

Netravalli – Bubbling Lake

A unique lake in Sanguem Taluka, it gets the latter part of its name due to the bubbling effect created on the surface of the lake frequently. Clapping or stepping heavily on the steps of the lake causes the water to start bubbling. Continuous clapping will increase the intensity of the bubbles, with live springs’ suddenly gushing out, which is a spectacular sight. However, this isn’t magic. The reason for the bubbles is the amassed methane gas from the vegetation underwater. Smallest of movements cause the gas to escape hence creating the bubbles.

Why Visit? There is a temple of Lord Gopinath near the lake, and it holds a sacred value for many believers. Also, several tourists visit this place for the bubbles and take a dip in the waters known for its medicinal value.

Location: Netravali region in Sanguem Taluka, South Goa.

Netravali Bubbling Lake: Image by Solarisgirl

Kakolem Beach

Known as the Tiger Beach, it is one of the most scenic and unseen places in Goa. The beach lacks crowd and is most importantly clean. Besides being isolated, it is also amongst the remotest beaches of Goa. It has a breathtakingly beautiful view of the surroundings and is accessible from a small cliff. There is also a small spring close to the beach.

Why Visit? Ideal for people who love adventure and uncrowded beaches.

Location: 7 km south of Cabo De Rama Resort, South Goa.

kakolem beach

Hope we managed to break the stereotype of what Goa is all about. The next time you visit Goa be sure to visit the South of Goa at least, even if you are staying in North Goa. A visit to some of the unexplored parts of South Goa is a must to understand the true essence of this beach town.

Fingerprints for immigration procedures in the U.S.

U.S. immigration authorities use biometric fingerprinting to identify individuals, as well as for subsequent checks of their immigration and criminal histories, if any. Based on these verifications, immigration control officials can make decisions such as, for example: the approval of a permanent residence card or, on the contrary, the denial of the American visa.

There are certainly many situations where fingerprints are used and required in the United States. Pay attention to the following sections to learn everything you need to know about this biometric record.

Why is fingerprint identification used in the U.S.?

The main reason is simple, there are no two individuals with identical fingerprints. That’s why the United States prioritizes this option over any other alternative. It is certainly a more accurate tool than DNA, as two individuals can share the same genetic material but not the same fingerprints.

In addition to the above, the process of collecting fingerprints and checking them is much faster and more accurate (scanners that collect and provide this biometric information in just a few seconds) than in other alternatives. However, there is a percentage of people (between 1 and 2%) who find it difficult or even impossible to read their fingerprints. For these cases, there are alternatives ranging from photographs of the individual to DNA testing.

What immigration procedures are fingerprints required for in the U.S.?

This is a very common process that applies to most immigration procedures in the United States. For example: when applying for a non-immigrant visa such as a tourist visa to the U.S. or to apply for an immigrant visa to obtain a permanent residence card in the U.S.. In turn, the US-Visit program requires that fingerprints be taken at all U.S. ports of entry (ports, airports and land borders).

Fingerprints are also collected for other exceptional migratory processes such as:

1. Asylum in the United States
2. T or U humanitarian visas (human trafficking or violence)
3. Citizenship acquisition for undocumented youth (DACA)

However, there are individuals or groups who are exempt from sharing their footprints. They are as follows:

1. American citizens
2. Foreign diplomats with A or G visas
3. Mexican and Canadian citizens who have a valid crossover visa
4. Permanent residents who left the country and returned to it through the same port

There is another case in which fingerprints are taken for migratory reasons and it is when being detained trying to enter illegally without a visa in the USA. Fingerprints will also be required of those U.S. or migrant individuals who are arrested or detained by federal, state or local authorities anywhere in the country.

Finally, remember that your fingerprints will not be required to process ESTA for the United States, however, they will be taken once you enter the country. There must be a record of all those who enter and leave the country with an entry authorization or H1B visa.

Note: Biometric fingerprint data are almost generally not collected from individuals under 14 years of age or over 79 years of age.

Where are fingerprints taken?

Depending on the situation or motive, biometric fingerprinting may be carried out at one location or another:

1. When required at immigration checkpoints, fingerprints are taken by the Border Patrol (CBP) at the U.S. port, airport, or land border where the individual is located. CBP border agents are also responsible for taking the fingerprints of undocumented migrants who have been detained while attempting to cross the U.S. border illegally.
2. In order to carry out immigration procedures such as applying for a non-immigrant visa or asylum permit, among others, an appointment is made to take fingerprints. In these cases, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) sends a letter to the applicant with confirmation of the appointment and the address of the Applicant Assistance Center (CAS) where the applicant must go to have their biometrics taken. These centers are located in some countries such as: Mexico, Dominican Republic or Argentina. However, there are countries where fingerprints are taken directly at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
3. The relevant authorities will also take your fingerprints in the event of arrest or detention. Once they collect your biometric data, they will share it with both the FBI and relevant databases. In the worst case, in addition to the fingerprints, the individual may be placed in the custody of immigration authorities until further notice.

Tip: the easiest way to know when and where we need to provide our biometric data is to know the requirements for the American visa. Ultimately, do not hesitate to consult the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.

What do U.S. immigration authorities do with fingerprints?

The biometric data collected through fingerprints are stored in different databases for later use. The FBI, the country’s main investigative agency, has access to millions of fingerprints collected in the databases of different organizations in the country. CBP (U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection) manages biometric data through the TECS system. The Department of State has the CCD database.

One of the agencies that most relies on fingerprint verification is USCIS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This U.S. agency has access to information from the databases mentioned above and can easily check important migratory data such as: full names of individuals, dates of birth, criminal records, postal addresses, etc.

Information obtained by fingerprints

When it comes to making use, for migration purposes, of information obtained through fingerprints, it is usually for one of these three reasons:

1. Knowing the identity of an individual and detecting immediately if his personal data or documents are illegal, such as when they belong to another person or are falsified.
2. Determine whether a person has committed some type of crime or misdemeanour that makes him or her liable to deportation, such as being considered inadmissible.
3. Detecting immigration violations by checking an individual’s fingerprints. This includes situations such as:

• That there is no record of the foreign citizen’s fingerprints in any database of the Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security, indicating that the country was entered in an irregular situation.
• Having hidden in any of the immigration forms any crime for which you have been arrested or detained. Consult the following link to learn more about traveling to the U.S. with a criminal record.
• Not to have left the country once the permit to be in it has expired, that is to say, to exceed the limit of stay authorized in the visa to the United States. These cases can mean the immediate deportation of the foreign citizen. See the link about entering the United States after being deported for more information.