The launch of Operation Sindhu by the Indian government, aimed at evacuating citizens amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions, is impacting sentiments across the overseas mobility and education markets. On June 17, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) facilitated the safe evacuation of 110 Indian students, including 90 from Jammu & Kashmir, from northern Iran. They were transported by road to Yerevan, Armenia, with support from Indian embassies, and landed in New Delhi on June 19, where they were received by Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh.
The MEA reiterated that the safety of Indian nationals abroad remains a top priority, with ongoing assistance being extended to those in conflict-prone regions. Citizens in Iran and Israel have been urged to stay in close touch with respective embassies.
The operation has prompted growing concern among families with students abroad or planning international education. Local consultancy firms report a spike in queries about safety protocols, government rescue mechanisms, and viable destination alternatives beyond West Asia. The uncertainty has also led to a cautious short-term outlook in the education services segment, with agencies re-evaluating risk assessments for overseas placements.
