India Launches Operation Sindhu to Evacuate Citizens

India Launches Operation Sindhu to Evacuate Nationals

Why in the News?

Amid the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate its nationals from war-torn Iran. The first phase of this evacuation operation successfully brought 110 Indian students, mostly from Jammu & Kashmir, to New Delhi via Armenia, as more citizens await evacuation.

Launch of Operation Sindhu:

• Operation Sindhu was launched on June 18, 2025, by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad.
• The operation aims to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran amidst ongoing military hostilities with Israel, highlighting the importance of diplomatic relationships in times of crisis.
• First phase: 110 Indian students were evacuated from northern Iran to Yerevan, Armenia via road, showcasing India’s commitment to protecting its citizens in war-torn Iran.
• A special flight from Yerevan via Doha brought the evacuees to New Delhi early Thursday morning, landing at Zvartnots International Airport in Armenia as part of the journey.

Student and Pilgrim Evacuations

• Out of the 110 evacuees, 90 students were from Jammu & Kashmir, with the rest from Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, demonstrating the wide reach of Operation Sindhu.
• Students had been moved from Tehran to Qom after airstrikes; two Kashmiri students were reportedly injured, emphasizing the need for swift evacuation operations.
• Another 96 pilgrims from UP, including elderly and minors, remain stranded in Qom with no clarity on evacuation plans, highlighting the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and security of all Indian nationals abroad.

Diplomatic Support and Emergency Measures

• Iranian Foreign Ministry officials cooperated with Indian diplomats to ensure safe passage for the evacuees, underscoring the importance of strong diplomatic relationships.
• The Indian Embassy in Tehran and Mission in Armenia coordinated evacuation efforts, working tirelessly to move Indian students from safer areas like Urmia University.
• MEA established 24×7 control rooms and emergency helpline numbers for Indians in Iran, providing crucial support and information about available options for those affected by the conflict.
• India reiterated that safety of its citizens abroad is a top priority, as further evacuations are planned based on increased hostilities and changing regional dynamics.

The successful execution of Operation Sindhu demonstrates India’s commitment to protecting its nationals in crisis situations abroad. As the Iran-Israel conflict continues to unfold, the Indian government remains vigilant, ready to extend its rescue efforts to ensure the well-being of all Indian citizens caught in the crossfire of international tensions.