1,000 Indians to Exit Iran Amid War

• Around 1,000 Indian students set to leave Iran amid conflict
• Nearly 9,000 Indians, mostly students, still remain in the country
• Govt facilitating evacuation through neighbouring nations
• Energy concerns rise as 22 ships stranded, supply stable

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 19th March: The government has informed a parliamentary panel that around 1,000 Indian students are expected to leave Iran amid the ongoing conflict, even as nearly 9,000 Indian nationals continue to remain in the country.

The issue was discussed during a बैठक of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, where the safety of Indians in Iran emerged as a key concern.

Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs told the panel that a large number of those staying back are medical students. They added that efforts are underway to facilitate the movement of Indian nationals through neighbouring countries to ensure safe evacuation where required.

The discussion also saw Opposition members raising questions over India’s diplomatic stance on recent developments in Iran, including the timing of the government’s condolence message following the reported death of Ali Khamenei.

Sources indicated that members sought clarity on whether the response reflected any shift in India’s foreign policy approach, though detailed answers were deferred in the absence of the Foreign Secretary. Officials assured the committee that written responses would be provided.

Energy security concerns were also flagged during the meeting, with officials stating that around 22 ships are currently stranded due to the situation. However, the government maintained that there is no immediate disruption to domestic fuel supplies, with oil refineries operating at high capacity.

The developments come amid heightened tensions in the region, prompting close monitoring by Indian authorities and contingency planning to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.