In a landmark moment for Cochin International Airport, a one-year-old Turkish-breed cat named Eva made history as the first pet to arrive from abroad. Eva’s journey from Doha, Qatar, was more than a personal triumph for her owner, K A Ramachandran—it marked the airport’s achievement in becoming only the seventh in India to be certified to receive pets from overseas, thanks to its newly acquired Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) certification.
Eva’s story is as heartwarming as it is historic. Rescued as an abandoned kitten near Ramachandran’s apartment in Doha, she quickly became an inseparable part of his family. “She was more than just a pet—she became a family member,” Ramachandran, an automobile mechanic returning to Kerala after 34 years abroad, shared. Encouraged by his son Rineesh, who still resides in Doha, Ramachandran undertook the complex process of ensuring Eva could accompany him to India.
An Arduous Journey Across Borders
Bringing a pet from abroad to India is no easy feat. Eva’s journey involved meticulous planning, starting with a veterinary examination and the issuance of a pet passport detailing her age, vaccinations, and health status. Additionally, a no-objection certificate from the Union Ministry of Animal Husbandry’s AQCS was mandatory.
With the necessary paperwork, including vaccination certificates, a health certificate, and proof of Ramachandran’s own travel plans, Eva was cleared for travel. The cost? A modest 340 Qatari Riyals for her weight and carrier, which was stowed safely under Ramachandran’s seat during the flight.
Cochin Airport’s Landmark Moment
Eva’s arrival is not just a personal milestone for Ramachandran and his family but also a significant achievement for Cochin International Airport. The AQCS certification allows the airport to cater to pet owners, opening new possibilities for those wishing to relocate with their furry companions.
This development positions Cochin among an elite group of Indian airports offering such services, enhancing its reputation as a forward-thinking hub.
A Symbol of Compassion and Progress
Eva’s story is more than a logistical success—it’s a testament to compassion, perseverance, and the growing recognition of pets as integral members of families. Her journey from the streets of Doha to her new home in Kerala symbolizes the lengths people are willing to go to ensure their beloved pets remain by their side, no matter the challenges.
As Eva settles into her new life in Thrissur, her story serves as an inspiration for pet owners worldwide and a reminder that every journey, no matter how challenging, is worth it when love is the destination.