Based on the discussion here, most of the applicants filled the Indian passport details in the previous passport num. But I know @rajkamalmohanram forgot to fill that field and he did not face any issues.
Its better to fill that section. When i have visited center last time, I saw some guy has to re-do an application due to that mistake.
Baggage collection happens at the first point of entry into India as far as I know. I had a domestic transfer in Mumbai once and I had to take all my luggage and check all those back in before flying to my final destination. 3 hours might be enough for immigration and baggage collection.
Yes, you have to collect your bags and cross customs/immigration and re-submit the bags to air india for the domestic side. There is a separate "drop off counter" for such domestic connections on T3 as soon as you exit the international terminal (assuming your connection leaves from T3).
Assuming you will have to get an appointment at that lab in Delhi that is approved by Canada to fly direct to Canada
Talk to CGI or BLS for options as you don't have your Indian passport as well. You could try to apply for the entry visa along with the surrender application receipt.
I cancelled my Indian passport in 2019. I don’t remember receiving any certificate. I just have it stamped on my passport.
Generally, CGI staples the surrender certificate in the last page of the cancelled Indian passport.
