While informing the tourists about the kind of clothing required in different parts of the country in winter and summer months, the government also offers this advice: “Some parts of India are still traditional and conservative. It is therefore advisable to dress appropriately”.

For hiring taxis or autos, the guidelines tell the visitors to approach licensed operators only and “insist on going by meter”. “It is advisable to note the number of taxi/ auto rickshaw,” it says. It also says that being from a different country, the tourists are likely to attract attention of the local people, “especially in the smaller towns”.

Curiously, the government tells tourists to drink only bottled water. “Many popular brands are available. In restaurants, insist that they bring a sealed bottle to your table.”

These guidelines would be circulated to all the Indian embassies and High Commissions and the overseas offices of India Tourism to be made available to tourists d sirous of coming to India.

BE WARY OF STRANGERS AND OTHER WISDOM

• Hire taxis and auto-rickshaws from pre-paid booths. Otherwise, insist on going by the meter. Note the number of taxi/ auto rickshaw.

• It is safe to travel in India. However, take some precautions like avoiding isolated places and going out alone late in the night.

•Avoid developing familiarity with strangers.

• Use public transportation/ transportation hired from approved operators. Do not accept lifts from strangers.

• Purchase food/ drinks from authorised stores only and avoid accepting food/ drinks from strangers or co-passengers.

... contd.