Operation Sindhu: India’s Heroic Evacuation of Kashmiri Students from War-Torn Iran – A Closer Look at Vande Bharat and Indravati Rescue Missions

New Delhi, June 18: India has successfully evacuated over 100 students stranded in war-torn Iran, highlighting its commitment to protect its citizens abroad. The government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, worked quickly to relocate these students to safer areas before helping them cross the border into Armenia and return home.

This operation is part of India’s broader approach to foreign policy over the past decade. Analysts note that India has often balanced diplomacy with decisive action when its citizens face danger. From natural disasters to political turmoil, the government has shown speed and compassion in its evacuation efforts, emphasizing the principle of “nation first.”

Let’s look at some significant exercises undertaken in recent years:

1. Vande Bharat Mission: Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, this initiative became one of the world’s largest repatriation efforts. From May 2020 to March 2022, 3.2 crore people were managed, ensuring that many stranded Indians and foreigners reached home safely.

2. Evacuations from Wuhan, China (2020): When the pandemic began, India swiftly airlifted 637 citizens and seven Maldivians from Wuhan, setting an early example of effective crisis management.

3. Operation Devi Shakti: In 2021, as turmoil escalated in Afghanistan, India evacuated 669 individuals, including many from vulnerable communities. This mission also ensured the return of sacred texts, showcasing respect for cultural values.

4. Operation Ganga: In response to the Ukraine conflict in early 2022, India organized the evacuation of over 18,000 individuals, emphasizing its commitment to assist students in distress without placing any financial burden on them.

5. Operation Kaveri: Following the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in 2023, India brought back over 4,000 individuals, employing a mix of air and sea routes to ensure safety.

6. Operation Ajay: Amid the Israel conflict in 2023, 1,343 people, including foreign nationals, were evacuated safely.

7. Operation Indravati: In March 2024, India airlifted 17 citizens from Haiti amidst civil unrest, reaffirming its proactive stance.

8. Response to the Kuwait Fire Incident: In mid-2024, following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of 45 Indian nationals, their remains were repatriated, showcasing India’s dedication to its citizens even in tough times.

9. Evacuation from Syria: In December 2024, 75 Indian nationals were brought back from Syria, with coordination from Indian embassies in the region.

These operations underline India’s robust foreign policy, aimed at safeguarding its people worldwide. Challenges remain, but these successful evacuations highlight a commitment to citizen welfare that resonates with many in the country.

According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 85% of Indians express trust in the government’s ability to protect them abroad, showing widespread approval of these efforts. As the global landscape continues to change, India’s approach to its citizens in distress will likely evolve, reflecting the country’s growing influence on the world stage.

For more details on India’s foreign policy and related updates, check out credible sources such as The Economic Times or The Hindu.

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