Romanticizing the West? Indian Airports earn praise after Geneva experience

Shazia Ilmi’s candid comparison sparks online debate on infrastructure and perception.

During a recent trip to Switzerland, political leader and social media user Shazia Ilmi shared her candid impressions of Geneva’s airport, sparking a lively debate about how Indians perceive infrastructure at home versus abroad. While acknowledging Switzerland’s reputation for efficiency and beauty, she argued that the Geneva airport fell short in several key areas, especially when compared to India’s modern facilities.

Ilmi noted that passengers arriving in Geneva faced confusing baggage claim systems, inadequate signage, and a lack of elevators in expected locations. She even recounted witnessing a woman on crutches forced to navigate stairs due to the absence of accessible lifts. For her, the experience was a reminder that Indians often “romanticize the West” while overlooking the progress made domestically.

In contrast, she praised Indian airports such as Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, and others in Bhopal, Lucknow, and Dehradun. According to Ilmi, these hubs provide clear navigation, better accessibility, and stronger passenger support. She concluded that while no system is flawless, India’s infrastructure deserves more recognition than it often receives.

Her post quickly gained traction online, drawing mixed reactions. Supporters echoed her sentiments, noting that airports in Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai often exceed international standards. Many highlighted India’s emphasis on service and hospitality, contrasting it with the self-service culture common in Europe.

Others, however, challenged her observations. Some Geneva residents insisted the airport is well-organized and equipped with elevators, suggesting her experience may have been an isolated inconvenience. Critics also argued that focusing on minor flaws risks overlooking broader systemic strengths and emphasized that India still faces challenges in maintaining consistency across all airports.

The debate ultimately reflects a larger conversation about perception and pride. For decades, many Indians have viewed Western infrastructure as inherently superior. Yet, as Ilmi’s experience illustrates, travel often reveals that excellence is not exclusive to one region. India’s airports, particularly in major cities, have evolved into world-class facilities, offering passengers comfort, accessibility, and efficiency that rival global benchmarks.

Her reflections serve as a reminder: progress at home should be acknowledged, even as efforts to improve continue. Romanticizing the West may be instinctive, but celebrating achievements within India is equally important in shaping a balanced perspective.