The Ministry of External Affairs reports that flight operations from Gulf nations are on the rise, with approximately 85 flights scheduled from the UAE to India on Monday. Additionally, flights from Saudi Arabia and Oman to various Indian destinations are also in progress. Qatar Airways is set to operate about 10 flights to India as Qatar’s airspace partially reopens. However, Kuwait and Bahrain airspace remain closed, while Jazeera Airways and Gulf Air are running non-scheduled commercial flights from Saudi Arabia’s Dammam Airport to India.
Airlines are cautiously operating limited non-scheduled flights, prioritizing operational and safety factors. Since February 28, an estimated 550,000 passengers have returned to India. Due to airspace constraints, Indian nationals are being rerouted through alternative paths, including routes via Iran through Armenia and Azerbaijan, Israel through Egypt and Jordan, Iraq through Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait and Bahrain through Saudi Arabia.
Tragically, an Indian national lost his life in an incident in Kuwait. The government has extended condolences to the bereaved family, and efforts are underway for the prompt repatriation of the deceased. The statement confirms that a total of 8 Indian nationals have lost their lives in various incidents, with one individual still missing. Missions are actively engaging with local authorities to provide support and assistance to affected families.
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasizes its continuous monitoring of the evolving situation in the Gulf and West Asia region, with a primary focus on the safety, security, and well-being of the Indian community. Special attention is being directed towards Indian seafarers, with missions maintaining regular contact to offer consular aid, facilitate communication with families, and address repatriation requests. Ensuring the welfare of Indian students in Gulf countries is a top priority, with collaborative efforts in place to minimize any disruptions to their academic year.
Efforts are underway to address academic concerns of Indian students, with close coordination between missions, local authorities, Indian schools, education boards, and the National Testing Agency. The CBSE has outlined an assessment scheme for the declaration of Class X and XII results in the region, while concerns related to ICSE, Kerala Boards, and exams like JEE and NEET are being actively managed through consistent communication with students and parents.
