For now, the government says it will continue monitoring the situation closely and will take appropriate steps if the safety of Indian nationals is threatened
The Indian government is preparing contingency plans to bring home its citizens from Iran as the security situation in the country worsens following ongoing military strikes. Around 9,000 Indians, most of them students, are currently believed to be in Iran and could require assistance if conditions deteriorate further.
Many of these students come from the Indian region of Jammu and Kashmir, while others belong to states such as Uttar Pradesh and several other parts of the country. Most are studying or living in Tehran, the Iranian capital, and the nearby religious city of Qom.
The current crisis began after large-scale air strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on February 28 triggered retaliatory attacks and heightened military tensions in the region. As a result, Iranian airspace has been closed, preventing commercial flights from operating.
With flights unavailable, officials are examining the possibility of evacuating Indian nationals through neighbouring countries. One potential plan involves transporting citizens by land to nearby Armenia or Turkmenistan, where they could then board flights back to India.
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Indian authorities say they are in constant contact with governments across the region as they monitor developments
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Diplomats are also working closely with Indian students and residents in Iran to ensure they receive updates and safety guidance
Earlier this week, the Indian Embassy in Tehran relocated many students from the capital to safer areas outside the city due to rising security concerns. However, reports suggest that some of those relocated to Qom later heard explosions in nearby areas, raising further anxiety among families back home.
The embassy has advised all Indians in Iran to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary travel and keep track of reliable news updates. Officials have also reminded citizens to stay in regular contact with the embassy and follow official guidance.
Although no formal evacuation operation has been announced yet, authorities say preparations are being reviewed continuously. A similar evacuation effort was carried out last year during a previous regional conflict, when thousands of Indians were safely brought back home.
