As the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies, the safety of Indian students in Iran has become a paramount concern. With escalating tensions and reports of strikes near residential areas, many students are anxious and appealing for evacuation. Here's a breakdown of the current situation:

The Situation on the Ground:

• Escalating Conflict: The recent exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran has created a volatile environment, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
• Student Concerns: Indian students in Iran, primarily those from Jammu and Kashmir, have expressed significant concerns about their safety. They report being jolted awake by explosions and are worried about the restricted airspace complicating their return home.
• Embassy Actions: The Indian Embassy in Tehran is actively monitoring the situation and has been engaging with students to ensure their safety. They are also providing updates through verified communication channels, including a dedicated Telegram group.
• Relocation Efforts: Indian authorities are relocating some students to safer locations within Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that the embassy is facilitating these relocations and exploring other feasible options to ensure the safety of Indian nationals.
• Seeking Evacuation: Many students are urging the Indian government to evacuate them from Iran before the situation deteriorates further.

Government Response and Options:

• Continuous Monitoring: The Indian Embassy in Tehran is continuously monitoring the security situation.
• Relocation within Iran: Some students are being moved to safer areas within Iran with the embassy's help. Buses are being provided to relocate students from cities like Tehran and Qom.
• Exploring Evacuation: India is considering a large-scale evacuation operation for its nationals.
• Land Border Options: With Iranian airspace closed, Iran has offered to allow Indian students to use its land borders to cross into neighboring countries like Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan for evacuation. India's Foreign Ministry is coordinating with Iran to ensure safe passage for its citizens.
• Coordination with Iran: India has requested Iran for the safe passage of stranded students and is coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure their safe travel. Iran has asked India to provide necessary details like names, passport numbers, and travel plans for those crossing the borders.

Student Demographics and Locations:

• Number of Students: There are thousands of Indian students in Iran, with estimates ranging from 1,500 to over 2,000, with some sources citing around 10,000 Indian citizens in Iran, about half of them students.
• Origin: A significant number of these students are from Jammu and Kashmir.
• Fields of Study: The majority of the students are pursuing professional courses, primarily MBBS.
• Locations: The students are spread across various cities in Iran, including Tehran, Shiraz, and Qom.

Safety Measures and Advice:

• Stay Indoors: The Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised all Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin to remain vigilant and avoid all unnecessary movements.
• Follow Verified Channels: Students are urged to follow the embassy's social media accounts and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities.
• Embassy Helpline: The embassy has shared helpline numbers and is in constant contact with the students.

The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure the safety of Indian students in Iran. While relocation efforts are underway, the possibility of a full-scale evacuation is also being considered. The safety and well-being of the students remain the top priority.