Amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, the Indian government has initiated a comprehensive rescue plan to ensure the safety and well-being of its students stranded in Iran. The move comes in response to the growing concerns of students and their families following recent aerial attacks and heightened conflict in the region.
With over 1,500 Indian students, many from Jammu and Kashmir, pursuing medical and other professional courses in Iranian universities, the Indian government is prioritizing their safe relocation and potential evacuation. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has been in direct communication with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, assuring that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of Indian students.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran is actively monitoring the security situation and has been engaging with the students to provide support and guidance. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that some students are being relocated to safer areas within Iran with the embassy's assistance. Other feasible options are also under consideration to ensure the safe passage of Indian nationals.
Given the closure of Iranian airspace, the Indian government is exploring alternative evacuation routes, including land borders with Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and possibly Afghanistan. These options are being carefully assessed to minimize travel distances and ensure the students' comfort and security. The Iranian government has expressed its willingness to cooperate with India in the evacuation efforts, offering to facilitate the movement of Indian nationals through land borders.
The situation on the ground remains tense, with students reporting sleepless nights and constant fear due to the proximity of explosions and aerial attacks. Many universities have suspended classes and exams, adding to the students' anxiety and uncertainty. The students have been urging the Indian government to expedite the evacuation process, emphasizing the need for a swift and decisive response to the escalating crisis.
The Indian government has launched a registration drive, utilizing online platforms and social media channels, to gather information and maintain contact with Indian citizens in Iran. This will enable the embassy to provide timely updates and coordinate evacuation efforts effectively. The MEA has also urged Indian nationals to remain calm, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay connected with the embassy for the latest advisories.
This isn't the first time India has undertaken such a large-scale evacuation. Previously, "Operation Ganga" successfully evacuated over 17,000 Indian citizens, primarily students, from war-torn Ukraine. Similarly, "Operation Devi Shakti" was launched to rescue Indian nationals and vulnerable groups from Afghanistan during the Taliban takeover. These past experiences demonstrate India's commitment and capability to protect its citizens in challenging and high-risk environments.
As the conflict between Iran and Israel continues to unfold, the Indian government remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard its citizens stranded in the region. With careful planning, diplomatic efforts, and logistical coordination, India aims to execute a successful rescue operation, ensuring the safe return of its students and nationals from Iran.
