Living and working in Indiaexpatriatehealthcare.com /india-information.htm

Country Facts - IndiaThis information is provided to offer guidance to those seeking to live and work overseas. For moreinformation we recommend that you speak with your national government Foreign Office (orequivalent).

When you think of India, you probably imagine ancient monuments like the Taj Mahal, the bustlingmarkets of Delhi, star-studded Bollywood and the sprawling beaches of Goa. Indeed, India offers aneclectic and colourful mix of culture, landmarks, food and natural beauty, and whether you're visitingthe country for a short trip or are relocating to this remarkable nation, you're certainly in for anunforgettable experience.

As the seventh-largest country in the world, with more than 1.2 billion people and an economy that'snot quietly growing, but rather rocketing skywards, India offers a lot of opportunity for intrepidexpatriates. However it also presents plenty of challenges ranging from terrorism and corruption topoverty and on-going conflicts with neighbouring nations.

With so much to think about, it's essential for anyone moving to India to be prepared. Do your research,invest in appropriate international healthcare and get ready for an amazing, but sometimes tumultuous,experience.

Local laws and customs

Possession of illegal drugs can carry lengthy sentences in India, with a minimum of six monthsimprisonment if you are caught with small amounts for personal use and up to 10 years for largeramounts.

Satellite phones and various other types of listening and recording devices are illegal in India without aspecial licence that must be obtained before you arrive in the country.

These can include radio transmitters, cameras with powerful lenses and binoculars, and certainhobbies like photography, bird watching and plane-spotting have been misunderstood by authorities inthe past. If in doubt, contact the Indian High Commission before travelling.

Healthcare

India has a universal healthcare system that is run by the various states and territories. The country'sconstitution requires that each state work to provide public health and improve the standard of living

and nutrition of the people living within its borders.

However, the standard of healthcare provided is not always high and many people opt for privatemedical cover in both urban and rural areas in order to improve their level of care.

Malnutrition and infant mortality are two major problems for the current health system, while a numberof diseases such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, malaria, dengue fever and pneumonia are also common.Meanwhile, the country has one of the world's highest rates of HIV infection.

To help ensure you have the best healthcare possible, be sure to opt for expat medical insurancebefore you travel.

Schooling for kids

Both private and public education systems are in operation throughout India and funding for theseinstitutions may come from the central, state and local governments.

In recent years, the country's primary education system has made great strides and the progress hasled to a significant increase in literacy rates - many also attribute the country's economic rise to animprovement in education. That said, it's generally agreed that further improvements need to be made,as approximately one-quarter of the population is illiterate and only seven per cent of students finishhigh school.

Socialising

Enjoying a meal at the home of friends and relatives is one of the most popular ways to socialise inIndia, and it's customary for guests to bring flowers or other gifts like chocolates or sweets for theirhosts. Just be sure to avoid the colours black and white, as they are believed to be unlucky.

Aim to arrive 15 or 20 minutes late to social occasions, and when you enter the home you shouldremove your shoes. Indian families often don't drink during their meals, so it's likely you'll be offered abeverage on arrival. Also, remember that it is polite to clean your plate, so be sure to pace your eatingthroughout the night.

Local language

The official language spoken in India, and used for most government purposes is Standard Hindi;however, there is no specified natural language. Meanwhile, English is the secondary language and itis often used for business purposes.

Many other languages are spoken throughout the country, and these often vary by location since eachstate can legislate to adopt an official language for the region. For example, Marathi is the officiallanguage of Maharashtra, while Punjabi is spoken in Punjab. Tlegu, Oriya, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam,Kashmiri, Urdu and Dogri are just some of the other languages and dialects that you might comeacross.

For more information on moving abroad visit www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo.

Of course, if you're planning on travelling to India please ensure you have adequate expat travelinsurance.

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