New Delhi, June 19, 2025 – In a significant relief for families across India, the first batch of 110 Indian students, evacuated from conflict-ridden Iran amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, landed safely in New Delhi in the early hours of Thursday, June 19, 2025. The evacuation, executed under the Indian government’s ‘Operation Sindhu,’ has been hailed as a swift and coordinated effort by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran, ensuring the safe return of these students via Armenia. This operation underscores India’s commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad, particularly in regions gripped by geopolitical turmoil.
Iran is home to over 4,000 Indian students, with nearly half hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, drawn to the country’s affordable education and cultural similarities. Universities in Tehran, Qom, Shiraz, and Urmia have been popular destinations for Indian students, particularly for medical programs. However, the sudden escalation of hostilities left these students stranded, prompting urgent calls for evacuation from their families back home.
Operation Sindhu: A Lifeline for Stranded Students
In response to the worsening situation, the Indian government launched ‘Operation Sindhu’ on June 17, 2025, a meticulously planned mission to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. The operation focused on relocating students from conflict-affected areas to safer regions, with Armenia serving as a critical transit point due to its proximity and diplomatic cooperation with India.
On June 17, 110 students, primarily from northern Iran, including those studying at Urmia Medical University, were safely transported by road to Armenia under the supervision of Indian missions in Tehran and Yerevan. The students crossed the border into Armenia, where they were accommodated in comfortable hotels, a gesture that earned praise from both the students and their families. A special flight, Indigo flight 6E 9487, departed from Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan at 14:55 IST on June 18, carrying the 110 evacuees. After a journey that included a stopover in Qatar, the flight landed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport at approximately 3:30 AM on June 19.
The operation was closely monitored by the MEA’s 24×7 Control Room in New Delhi, which provided real-time updates and support to families. Emergency contact lines, including a dedicated WhatsApp number (+91 9968291988) and email ([email protected]), were established to assist those seeking information about their loved ones.
Voices from the Ground: Students Recount Their Ordeal
The students arriving in Delhi shared chilling accounts of their experiences in Iran, expressing gratitude for the Indian government’s timely intervention. Mir Khalif, an MBBS student from Urmia University, described the tense atmosphere in Iran: “We could see missiles flying overhead. Our neighborhood was bombed, and there was a war going on. We were terrified.” He added, “The Indian Embassy’s support was like a lifeline. I hope my friends still in Iran are brought back soon.”
Another student, Yasir Gaffar, recounted, “We heard loud explosions at night and saw missiles passing by. It was a nightmare, but the Indian government’s evacuation gave us hope. I haven’t given up on my dreams, and I plan to return to Iran when the situation stabilizes.”
Mariam Roz, one of the evacuees, praised the seamless arrangements made by the Indian Embassy: “Everything was prepared for us. We didn’t face any issues, though we’re exhausted after traveling for three days.” Amaan Azhar, another student, expressed his joy at reuniting with his family: “I can’t put into words how happy I am to be back. The situation in Iran is very bad, and I’m grateful to the government for bringing us home.”
Varta, a student from Kashmir, highlighted the critical situation in Tehran: “The Indian government came to our doorstep when we needed them the most. It felt like home. Our neighborhood was attacked, and we were scared for our lives.” These firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of the fear and uncertainty faced by the students, underscoring the urgency of the evacuation effort.
Families’ Relief and Ongoing Concerns
The arrival of the first evacuation flight brought immense relief to families who had been anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. A mother of one of the evacuated students shared her emotions with ANI: “I’m overjoyed that my daughter is back home. The Indian government managed everything so well. I pray for the safe return of all the children still in Iran.”
Parvez Alam, a resident of Bulandshahr whose son studies in Urmia, spoke to PTI about the stress his family endured: “Everything was fine until recently when the situation deteriorated. The government evacuated the students to Armenia and ensured they were well cared for. We are deeply thankful.”
However, the joy of reunion was tempered by concerns for those still stranded in Iran, particularly in cities like Tehran and Isfahan. Students and families urged the government to expedite efforts to evacuate the remaining Indian nationals. One student noted, “We’re sad that our friends in Tehran haven’t been rescued yet. The situation there is particularly bad.”
Logistical Challenges: Kashmiri Students’ Disappointment
While the evacuation was largely successful, some students, particularly those from Jammu and Kashmir, expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements for their onward journey. Of the 110 evacuees, approximately 90 were from Kashmir, and many expected flights to be arranged to Srinagar. Instead, they were informed that they would need to travel by bus, prompting protests at Delhi airport.
Shabir, a Kashmiri student, voiced his frustration: “We’re jet-lagged, sleep-deprived, and exhausted. After such a traumatic experience, we were hoping for flights to Kashmir, but now they’re telling us to take a bus?” The Jammu and Kashmir Students’ Association echoed these concerns, alleging that the State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses provided were of poor quality. In response, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir took note of the students’ requests and promised to address the issue.
Government’s Response and Diplomatic Efforts
The MEA played a pivotal role in coordinating Operation Sindhu, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal providing regular updates via social media. In a post on X, Jaiswal announced, “India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. On June 17, 110 students from northern Iran crossed into Armenia under the supervision of our missions. They departed from Yerevan on a special flight and arrived in New Delhi in the early hours of June 19, 2025.”
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh personally welcomed the students at Delhi airport, a gesture that was widely appreciated. The Indian government also expressed gratitude to the Iranian and Armenian authorities for their cooperation in facilitating the evacuation process.
The MEA emphasized that the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad remain a top priority. The Indian Embassy in Tehran continues to assist citizens in relocating to safer areas within Iran while arranging their evacuation through available routes. The ministry advised all Indian nationals in Iran to stay in contact with the embassy and the MEA’s Control Room for updates and assistance.
Broader Context: India’s Evacuation Operations
Operation Sindhu is the latest in a series of successful evacuation missions undertaken by India to rescue its citizens from conflict zones. From Operation Ganga in Ukraine to Operation Kaveri in Sudan, India has established a reputation for efficient and compassionate evacuation efforts. The use of Armenia as a transit point in Operation Sindhu highlights India’s ability to leverage diplomatic ties to ensure the safety of its citizens, even in complex geopolitical scenarios.
The operation also reflects India’s growing influence in global diplomacy. By coordinating with Iran and Armenia amidst an active conflict, India demonstrated its ability to navigate sensitive international relations while prioritizing the welfare of its citizens. The MEA’s round-the-clock monitoring and transparent communication further reinforced public trust in the government’s handling of the crisis.
A Beacon of Hope
The safe evacuation of 110 Indian students from Iran under Operation Sindhu is a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to its citizens, even in the face of daunting challenges. The operation has brought relief to countless families, but it also serves as a reminder of the work that remains. As the Indian government continues its efforts to rescue those still stranded, the resilience and hope of the students and their families shine through, embodying the spirit of a nation that stands united in times of crisis.
For now, the students who landed in Delhi are grateful to be back on Indian soil, ready to reunite with their loved ones and rebuild their lives. Their stories of survival and gratitude will inspire future generations, while Operation Sindhu will be remembered as a beacon of hope in one of India’s most challenging evacuation missions.
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