What Is Operation Sindhu and Why It Matters
India launches Operation Sindhu to evacuate students from Iran amid Israel–Iran conflict. First batch of 110 Indians safely lands in New Delhi.
The Impressive TimesBy Dipesh
info@impressivetimes.com
Operation Sindhu is a humanitarian evacuation mission launched by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, on June 18, 2025, to repatriate Indian nationals—especially students—trapped in conflict-hit Iran amid the intensifying Israel–Iran war.
The initiative underscores India’s long-standing policy of citizen-first diplomacy, ensuring no Indian is left behind during global crises.
The mission began with a successful first phase:
110 Indian students stranded in northern Iran were safely escorted across the border to Armenia on June 17.
From there, they boarded a special evacuation flight from Yerevan that landed in New Delhi on June 19, 2025.
This phase was executed in coordination with Indian missions in Iran and Armenia, ensuring smooth transit under diplomatic protection.
The MEA outlined several critical goals for launching Operation Sindhu:
Due to missile strikes and drone attacks across Iran, the region has become hazardous for civilians. The evacuation prioritizes the physical safety of Indian nationals, especially students.
India is collaborating with neighboring countries such as Armenia and Turkmenistan to arrange land crossings and special flights to bring stranded citizens home safely.
Following the precedent set by Operation Ganga (Ukraine), Operation Kaveri (Sudan), and Operation Ajay (Israel), Operation Sindhu reflects India’s ongoing commitment to its global diaspora under the ethos of “No Indian Left Behind.”
Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson of the MEA, announced:
“India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. The first batch of 110 students from northern Iran crossed into Armenia under the supervision of our Missions.
They departed from Yerevan on a special flight and arrived in New Delhi in the early hours of June 19, 2025.
accords the highest priority to the safety and security of her nationals abroad.”
Operation Sindhu is more than a rescue mission—it’s a testament to India’s global leadership, crisis management, and diplomatic maturity. The operation enhances India’s reputation as a responsible nation that safeguards its people anywhere in the world.
Key takeaways:
Showcases India’s logistical strength during geopolitical emergencies
Strengthens bilateral ties with transit nations like Armenia
Reinforces national morale and diaspora trust in government action
Operation Sindhu stands as a powerful example of India’s commitment to citizen safety, swift crisis response, and diplomatic efficiency. With the first batch of 110 students safely home, further evacuations are underway, backed by multi-country coordination and active embassy support.
India’s message is clear:
Wherever the crisis, India will bring its citizens home.
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