By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday that over 52,000 Indian nationals have returned home from the Gulf region between March 1 and March 7 as the Government of India continues to closely monitor the situation in West Asia and the Gulf region.
In an official statement, the ministry said the government remains focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian citizens who were stranded in the region during transit or on short-term visits due to disruptions caused by the unfolding regional situation.
“The Government of India is continuously monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and the Gulf region, especially with regard to the welfare of Indian nationals who have been stranded there during transit or on short duration visits,” the ministry said.
According to the statement, over 52,000 Indians have travelled safely back to India using commercial and special flights operating after partial reopening of airspace in parts of the region. Of these, 32,107 passengers returned on Indian carriers.
The gradual resumption of aviation activity, both Indian and foreign airlines have begun operating commercial as well as non-scheduled flights to facilitate the return of stranded travelers.
The ministry said additional flights are being planned in the coming days to help more passengers return home.
The authorities have also advised Indian citizens currently in West Asian and Gulf countries to remain cautious and follow instructions issued by local authorities as well as advisories released by Indian diplomatic missions in their respective locations.
“All Indian nationals in the region are advised to follow the guidelines of the local authorities as well as the advisories being issued by the Indian Embassy or Consulate in their location,” the ministry said.
Indian embassies and consulates across the region have set up round-the-clock help lines to assist citizens facing difficulties due to the ongoing developments.
The MEA has also established a dedicated Special Control Room to handle queries and coordinate assistance for affected individuals and their families in India.
Officials said the control room is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with missions abroad to address concerns raised by Indian nationals.
In countries where commercial flights are still unavailable, Indian citizens have been advised to remain in touch with the nearest embassy or consulate to receive guidance on alternative travel arrangements and the closest available flight options.
The ministry reiterated that the government remains engaged with authorities across the region to ensure assistance reaches those who require it.
“The safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad is of utmost priority to the Government which remains engaged with the Governments across the region to work towards facilitating all those in need of assistance,” the statement added.
