Escalating tensions in West Asia amid the ongoing hostilities between the United States and Iran are causing anxiety for families of nearly 30,000 tribal migrant workers from southern Rajasthan. According to estimates, between 25,000 and 30,000 workers from the districts of Dungarpur and Banswara are currently employed in Kuwait, while more than 300 people from Dungarpur are reported to be in Israel. As regional tensions intensify, families back home are closely monitoring developments and seeking regular updates on the safety of their relatives abroad.

A non-resident Indian based in Kuwait said that amid the recent hostilities, the country’s new and old airports, along with an army facility and an American base, were targeted in attacks. He added, however, that the situation was now largely under control and that there was no immediate panic among residents. Following reports of Iranian strikes in the region, many residents stocked up on essential commodities as a precautionary measure, though there have been no confirmed shortages of food or basic supplies.

In addition to migrant workers, religious groups from Rajasthan have also been affected by the unrest. Leaders and devotees associated with Jodhpur’s Bada Ramdwara temple are reportedly stranded in Dubai due to disruptions in travel. Among those said to be present in the United Arab Emirates are Amritram Maharaj and Manohar Das Maharaj, according to local sources. Their families and followers in Rajasthan remain in contact and are awaiting clarity on travel schedules.

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The uncertainty has also cast a shadow over Rajasthan’s handicraft export sector, which depends heavily on stable global logistics routes. Exporters in cities such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur fear that any disruption to the Red Sea shipping corridor could sharply increase freight costs and delay consignments. The industry is already navigating challenges linked to higher tariffs in key markets, and further instability could compound financial pressures on small and medium enterprises.

Mahavir Bagrecha, a handicraft exporter, noted that several shipments and product samples are scheduled ahead of the upcoming IMM Cologne Fair, an important international trade event. He warned that closure of the Red Sea route would significantly affect participation and timely deliveries, particularly as exporters operate on tight margins. During previous regional conflicts, consignments had to be rerouted at higher freight rates, adding to operational costs.

Industry stakeholders are also preparing for the Red Sea Fair supported by the Jodhpur Handicrafts Exporters Association, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from March 11 to 14, 2026. With the United States and Europe being the largest markets for Rajasthan’s handicrafts, exporters are concerned that prolonged instability in West Asia could disrupt airspace and shipping lanes. Families of migrant workers and business communities alike are hoping for swift de-escalation to safeguard livelihoods and ensure safe returns.

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