@ Revtech: I've just decided to wait and watch. I am not going to be renewing my IR as of now. About the NOC, I am guessing the process should be similar to the NOC people apply for when they are overdue on their medicals. If that's the case then it doesn't take long at all. You have to type out the letter yourself and take it to the DGCA where they stamp it for you and that's about it. It might warrant a trip to Delhi though.