Individuals not required to obtain a visa to enter India:

There are several categories of individuals who are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter India. These include:

1. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI):
Individuals who hold Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status are not required to obtain a visa to enter India. OCI is a form of citizenship that is granted to individuals who have a connection to India by virtue of being a citizen of another country, or being of Indian origin. OCI cardholders enjoy many benefits, including the ability to live and work in India indefinitely, as well as the right to travel to India without a visa.

2. Person of Indian Origin (PIO):
Similar to OCI cardholders, individuals who are Person of Indian Origin (PIO) are not required to obtain a visa to enter India. PIO refers to individuals who have a connection with India through their ancestry or through being a citizen of another country. However, it is important to note that the PIO card has been merged with the OCI card since 2015, and therefore, new applications for PIO cards are no longer accepted.

3. Foreign diplomats:
Foreign diplomats and officials who are assigned to an embassy or consulate in India are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter the country. This exemption is granted under the principle of diplomatic reciprocity, which means that diplomats from foreign countries enjoy certain privileges and immunities, including the ability to enter a host country without a visa.

4. Citizens of neighboring countries:
Citizens of neighboring countries, such as Nepal and Bhutan, do not need a visa to enter India. This is due to the special bilateral agreements that India has with these countries, allowing for unrestricted movement across their shared borders. However, it is important to note that certain travel documents or permits may be required for citizens of these countries to enter India, depending on the purpose and duration of their visit.

In conclusion, individuals who hold Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status are not required to obtain a visa to enter India. OCI cardholders, along with Persons of Indian Origin (PIO), foreign diplomats, and citizens of neighboring countries enjoy visa exemptions based on their specific circumstances or bilateral agreements.