PM Modi Says India Evacuated 3.75 Lakh From Gulf Conflict Zones

Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed Parliament on March 23, 2026, that India has successfully repatriated over 3.75 lakh (375,000) nationals from Gulf countries amid the ongoing US-Iran war, now in its fourth week. Addressing the Lok Sabha, Modi highlighted the government's swift and coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and return of Indian citizens from the conflict-affected West Asia region, where disruptions to air travel, airspace closures, and heightened security risks have posed significant challenges.

The figure, which Modi cited as more than 3.75 lakh Indians brought back safely since the escalation began around late February 2026, reflects a large-scale repatriation operation facilitated through additional commercial flights, diplomatic coordination, and assistance from host nations. From Iran specifically, nearly 1,000 nationals have returned, including over 700 medical students who were among the most vulnerable due to proximity to conflict zones. Modi emphasized that the government prioritised the welfare of its diaspora, with Indian missions operating round-the-clock to provide support, helplines, and facilitation for departures via alternative routes when direct flights were unavailable.

This massive repatriation effort comes as India grapples with the war's broader implications, including threats to energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz and economic pressures from volatile oil prices. With nearly one crore (10 million) Indians living and working in the Gulf—contributing significantly to remittances and labour markets—Modi noted the region's importance as a major crude oil supplier and stressed measures to protect citizens without abandoning them in crisis. He expressed gratitude to Gulf countries for their cooperation in ensuring the safety and care of Indian expatriates during the turmoil.

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The announcement underscores the scale of India's response compared to earlier MEA updates, which reported progressively rising numbers—around 67,000 by early March, 2.6 lakh by mid-March, and figures nearing 3 lakh in recent days—indicating accelerated operations as flight services improved and tensions persisted. Modi reiterated that no Indian would be left stranded, aligning with his earlier assurances in public addresses that the "new India" prioritises citizen safety abroad through proactive diplomacy and logistics.

The repatriations highlight ongoing challenges in the region, where the conflict has caused civilian casualties, including some Indian nationals, and prompted advisories for caution. As the war continues without resolution, with US ultimatums and Iranian retaliations intensifying, the government maintains focus on monitoring developments, diversifying energy sources, and supporting any remaining citizens wishing to return, while balancing strategic ties in the Middle East.

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