Operation Sindhu: Kirti Vardhan Singh welcomes 110 Indians evacuated from Iran - in pics

Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, India launched 'Operation Sindhu' to ensure the safety of its citizens. The first evacuation flight carrying 110 Indian students from Iran arrived in Delhi on June 19 where they were personally received by minister of state for external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. (Image: ANI)

Students were moved from Urmia to Armenia by Indian authorities, then flown through Qatar before they arrived in India. The journey spanned three days and multiple checkpoints, each step coordinated by Indian embassies to ensure safe transit from a volatile region. (Image: ANI)

In an official statement, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X: “India evacuated 110 students who crossed into Armenia under the supervision of our missions in Iran and Armenia. They departed from Yerevan and reached New Delhi safely.” India reaffirmed its commitment to citizens’ safety abroad. (Image: X/Randhir Jaiswal)

On the seventh day of the Israel-Iran war, Tehran endured heavy missile strikes causing power outages and explosions. Over 300,000 civilians were urged to evacuate. Rising dangers to Indian nationals triggered urgent diplomatic efforts for their safe evacuation. (Image: AP)

“We saw drones and missiles from our dorm window,” said a final-year MBBS student from Urmia University. Another student added, “The Indian Embassy prepared everything for us. We’re tired, but safe.” (Image: AP)

Families travelled from cities to receive their children. “I’m just happy my daughter is home,” one mother said. “We thank the Indian government for managing this without chaos. I hope other students in Tehran return soon.” (Image: ANI)

“We couldn’t call anyone; only the embassy kept us informed,” said a student evacuee. After airstrikes began, Iran imposed a near-total internet blackout, causing connectivity to drop drastically. Indian students had to rely solely on embassy channels to coordinate their safe exit from the region. (Image: X/ PTI)

Israel strikes on nuclear and military sites, followed by Iranian retaliation, have caused over 600 deaths and thousands injured. The attacks damaged infrastructure in Tabriz, Tehran and Natanz. (Image: AP)

Operation Sindhu is an evacuation mission launched by India that aimed at ensuring the safe return of Indians nationals from Iran. It is coordinated by Indian embassies in Iran, Armenia and Qatar. (Image: X/ Randhir Jaiswal)

Many students expressed a desire to return to Iran once peace is restored. “I haven’t given up on my dreams,” said one. As of now, they’re safe at home. (Image: ANI)