India prepares to pull out its nationals from Iran, first batch ready

January 16, 2026

New Delhi: Amidst the deteriorating situation in Iran, the Indian government has intensified preparations to bring back Indian citizens stranded there.

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that all necessary steps are being taken for the return of Indian citizens who wish to come back home. Sources gave this information to news agency ANI.

Indian Embassy’s Appeal, Registration Mandatory

Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Iran issued an advisory appealing to all Indian citizens to register with the embassy. However, according to officials, the registration process has been slow due to the ongoing internet shutdown in the country.

The embassy has advised the families of Indians residing in Iran that they can complete the registration on behalf of their relatives through the Ministry of External Affairs’ online portal:
https://www.meaers.com/request/home

Students and Citizens Advised to Leave Iran

The advisory stated that Indian citizens in Iran — including students, pilgrims, businessmen, and tourists — should leave the country by any available means, especially commercial flights.

The Indian Embassy has also issued four helpline numbers for emergencies: +98 9128109109, +98 9128109102 , +98 9932179359

First Evacuation Flight to Depart Tomorrow

With Iran reopening its airspace for civilian flights after a temporary closure, the evacuation process has begun. According to officials, the first evacuation flight from Tehran to Delhi will depart tomorrow.

All Indian students have completed their registration. The embassy has collected their personal details and passports. Students in the first batch have been instructed to be ready by 8 AM.
This flight is likely to include some students from Golestan University, SBUMS, and TUMS. The final passenger list will be shared tonight. Protests continue in Iran for two weeks

It is noteworthy that nationwide protests have been ongoing in Iran for the past two weeks. These protests, which began over the fall of the national currency and the deteriorating economic situation, have now transformed into a broader movement against the government and the religious leadership. There is widespread public anger over economic mismanagement and restrictions on personal freedoms.

Relief for families in Jammu and Kashmir

This evacuation operation has brought particular relief to families in Jammu and Kashmir whose children are studying in Iran and who were concerned about the security situation there.