India

U.S. citizens have been arrested at Indian airports for smuggling narcotics — many said they didn't know they were carrying drugs, so never transport or mail packages that aren't yours.

Arrest and long imprisonment for smuggling

Possessing a satellite phone (e.g. Thuraya/Iridium) or GPS device in India is illegal; travelers have faced fines, detention or arrest.

Fines reported as high as ~$200,000 and up to 3 years in jail.

Foreigners may not bring Indian rupees into India (only residents returning from abroad may carry up to Rs 25,000), and you must file a Currency Declaration Form if you arrive with foreign cash over US$5,000 or total foreign exchange over US$10,000.

Undeclared currency over these limits can be seized, fined, or lead to prosecution.

India strictly regulates importing/exporting antiquities, electronics, currency, ivory and gold objects; restricted items need Government of India permission.

Arrest, fines, and confiscation of the items.

Each Indian state sets its own alcohol laws; some sell alcohol only for medicinal use or require a liquor permit, a few states (e.g. Gujarat, Bihar) are dry, and legal drinking ages range 18–25.

Penalties for violating state alcohol laws can be harsh (fines/detention).

Bringing any e-cigarette or vape into India is illegal — the 2019 ban prohibits importing and storing all vaping devices, including nicotine-free ones, e-hookah and heat-not-burn products.

Import/sale: up to 1 year prison and/or a fine up to Rs 100,000 (repeat: up to 3 years + Rs 500,000); storage: up to 6 months and/or Rs 50,000.

Carrying a standalone GPS device in India is illegal and can result in fines, detention, or arrest — penalties can reach US$200,000 and up to 3 years in jail.

Up to $200,000 fine and 3 years in jail

Bringing a satellite phone into India is illegal and can lead to fines, detention, or arrest — penalties reach up to US$200,000 and 3 years in jail.

Up to $200,000 fine and 3 years in jail

India's Supreme Court decriminalized same-sex relationships in 2018 and the law bars discrimination based on sexual orientation, but enforcement is inconsistent and harassment is reported, especially in rural areas.