. "tip" the customs people Rs. 500 (you have to haggle) or $10. i've had to do that twice. it was a really bad experience. i thought they would write it in my passport so that they can make sure i bring it back. but they wouldn't do it! they said they would charge me customs duty of Rs. 18,000 if I went through the official documentation process - even if I was bringing it back. i knew it was bullshit but couldn't really argue much more, just wanted to get out of the airport, you know. although, i hear there is a new rule now that says students can take in one laptop for free, i.e without customs duty.