THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BENGALURU,
MARCH 2, 2026
The Union Government
is fully prepared to evacuate Indians stranded in the Gulf region amid the
escalating Iran–Israel conflict, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Monday,
assuring families that coordinated efforts are underway to ensure their safe
return.
Joshi said the Centre
is in constant touch with Indian missions in the region and has held discussions
with senior officials of the concerned embassies to facilitate evacuation plans
for those affected by the war situation. He emphasised that the safety of
Indian nationals abroad remains the government’s top priority.
“Whenever Kannadigas and other Indians face
distress anywhere in the world, the Central Government has ensured their safe
return. Earlier, we brought back those stranded in Ukraine. Wherever Indians
are, their safety remains our first priority,” he said.
The Minister noted
that reports have been received about Kannadigas facing hardship due to the
severity of the Iran–Israel conflict, prompting urgent consultations with
senior ministers to chalk out protective measures and possible evacuation
strategies.
Reassuring anxious
families, Joshi said there was no need to panic, adding that the government is
closely monitoring the evolving situation and will act swiftly to bring back
all Indians safely.
He cautioned,
however, that air travel in active conflict zones is currently risky and that
expert advice is being sought before finalising evacuation logistics.
Joshi also said
efforts are underway to assist Indians stranded in Dubai, where flight
operations have been disrupted due to the regional security situation.
“No one should be anxious. Serious efforts are
being made to bring them back safely,” he added, reiterating the Centre’s
commitment to safeguarding Indian citizens in West Asia.
