As tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East, the first significant movement of Indian students seeking safety has officially begun. Amidst reports of explosions and rising security alerts, the first batch of Indian medical scholars has started their journey toward the Armenia border, looking for a safe passage back to India.
For the nearly 1,000 Indian students currently in Iran—many of whom are from Jammu and Kashmir the situation has moved from “concerning” to “critical.” While the Indian Embassy in Tehran has maintained an advisory for students to stay where they are, they have also begun coordinating logistical support for those determined to leave via land routes.
The primary exit strategy currently involves a transit through the Armenian border. Students from major institutions like Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Urmia University are being offered two main paths: Armenia or Azerbaijan.
The journey isn’t a traditional government-led evacuation; rather, it’s a coordinated effort where students are taking responsibility for their own travel. To be cleared for the border crossing, students must present a confirmed flight ticket from Armenia to India. Once verified, they travel via bus—sometimes with an overnight stay in Qom arranged by the mission—before heading to the Zulfa border crossing.
While the move toward the border is a relief for many families, it comes with immense challenges. Reports from the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) highlight that students have been sheltering in basements during blasts, some just 200 meters from their hostels.
Financially, the burden is heavy. With airfares from neighboring countries reaching nearly ₹1 lakh per ticket, many students are struggling to afford the exit. Despite this, the first group of over 30 students is expected to land in New Delhi on March 15 via Dubai, with more following on March 16.
The success of this first batch is crucial. Many students still in cities like Shiraz, Kerman, and Isfahan are watching closely. If this initial group reaches home safely, it is expected to trigger a much larger wave of departures.
For now, the focus remains on the “safety buffer” a recommended 5 to 7 day gap between entering Armenia and boarding their flights to ensure that no one is stranded at the border during these volatile times.
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