New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said it continues to closely monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with the safety, security and welfare of the Indian diaspora remaining the highest priority.
The Ministry said it remains in close coordination with State Governments and Union Territories for dissemination of advisories and coordination with Indian Missions and Consulates.
“A dedicated MEA Special Control Room continues to operate in coordination with Missions and Posts across the region to assist Indian nationals. Missions and Posts are maintaining 24×7 helplines and responding to queries through email and social media channels. They are issuing regular advisories with updated information on safety, local government guidelines, flight and travel status and consular services,” it said in an official statement.
Indian ambassadors are regularly engaging with Indian community associations, professional groups and Indian companies to address their concerns.
Missions are facilitating visas, transit through neighbouring countries where airspace restrictions apply and providing logistical support as required.
“Welfare of Indian students in Gulf countries remains a priority, with Missions coordinating with local authorities, Indian schools, educational boards and the National Testing Agency to address academic concerns,” said the statement.
Missions are also providing support to Indian seafarers in the region, including coordination with local authorities, consular assistance and facilitating requests for return to India.
Since February 28, around 7,60,000 passengers have travelled from the war-affected region to India. In the UAE, airlines continue to operate limited non-scheduled commercial flights based on operational and safety considerations. Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to destinations in India.
Qatar airspace remains partially open, with Qatar Airways expected to operate around 8–10 flights to India today. Kuwait airspace remains closed, with Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways operating non-scheduled flights from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia to India.
Bahrain airspace remains closed, with Gulf Air operating non-scheduled flights from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia to India.
“The Embassy of India in Tehran has facilitated the movement of 1,862 Indian nationals from Iran to Armenia and Azerbaijan for onward travel to India, including 935 Indian students and 472 Indian fishermen. Due to flight restrictions and airspace closures, travel of Indian nationals continues to be facilitated through alternative transit routes,” said the government.
