Amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the Indian government has undertaken efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens residing in the region, with a particular focus on students. In a recent development, 110 Indian medical students have been successfully moved from Tehran, Iran, to Armenia, marking a significant step in the ongoing evacuation efforts.

The evacuation was prompted by the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, which has raised serious concerns about the safety of Indian nationals in the region. The situation has been particularly worrying for students, many of whom are pursuing medical and other professional courses in Iranian universities. It is estimated that Iran is home to over 4,000 Indian nationals, with approximately half of them being students. A significant number of these students hail from Jammu and Kashmir, drawn to Iranian institutions due to their affordability and cultural similarities.

As the conflict escalated, the Indian government, through its embassy in Tehran, initiated measures to relocate Indian students to safer locations. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been actively involved in coordinating the evacuation efforts and providing assistance to those affected.

The initial phase of the rescue operation focused on moving students from Tehran, which has been a focal point of the conflict, to other parts of Iran deemed to be relatively safer. However, with the closure of Iranian airspace and ports, authorities explored alternative routes to ensure the safe passage of Indian nationals out of the country.

The land border with Armenia emerged as a viable option, and with the cooperation of Armenian authorities, a plan was put in place to evacuate students via this route. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been in communication with his Armenian counterpart, Ararat Mirzoyan, to facilitate the smooth passage of Indian nationals through Armenia.

The first batch of 110 students successfully crossed the border into Armenia and were accommodated in hotels in Yerevan, the Armenian capital. They are scheduled to fly to Delhi on Wednesday, where they will be reunited with their families. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been providing all necessary assistance, including arranging transportation and accommodation for the students.

In addition to the students evacuated to Armenia, efforts are underway to move other Indian nationals to safer locations within Iran. The MEA has advised Indian residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport to move out of Tehran in view of the developing situation. The Indian Embassy remains in constant contact with the Indian community, providing updates and extending all possible assistance.

The government has also established a 24/7 control room to address queries and provide support to those affected by the conflict. Helpline numbers have been issued by both the MEA and the Indian Embassy in Tehran to ensure that Indian nationals have access to the information and assistance they need.

The successful evacuation of the 110 medical students to Armenia is a testament to the Indian government's commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. However, the situation remains fluid, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe passage of all Indian nationals who wish to leave Iran. The government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take further measures as necessary to protect its citizens in the region.