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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)has highlighted one of the largest voluntary repatriations and travel management exercises in recent times as India prioritises the safety of its 1-crore-strong diaspora in the Gulf.
As reported by ANI , In a significant briefing on the evolving security situation in West Asia, the MEA announced that over 11,61,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India since February 28, 2026.
The update, provided by Aseem R Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), during an inter-ministerial briefing, highlighted the successful return of 12 Indian seafarers who had been stranded in Iraq.
The group arrived in Mumbai yesterday following the strategic reopening of Iraq’s airspace. The Indian Embassy in Baghdad facilitated their documentation and transit, ensuring their safe exit from the conflict-affected region.
Mahajan informed, “12 Indian seafarers who were stuck in Iraq arrived in Mumbai yesterday following the opening of Iraq’s airspace. Our mission in Baghdad rendered all assistance to them and facilitated their return to India”.
Mahajan emphasised that the welfare of seafarers remains a “high priority,” with Indian missions coordinating round-the-clock with local port authorities and maritime agencies
He added, “We attach high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Our missions are extending all assistance to them, including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance and assisting with requests to return to India.”
Mahajan informed during the briefing, “Since February 28th, around 11,61,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India.”
Highlighting how the MEA continues to closely monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region. Mahajan underscored that ensuring the safety, security and welfare of the large Indian community in the region remains the government’s highest priority.
“The dedicated special control room in the Ministry is operational and is working in close coordination with our missions. Our missions and posts in the region are operating round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance and address queries. They are proactively assisting our citizens. They are also in close touch with the local governments”, he said.
