Maharashtra Government Aims to Bring Back Indians Stranded in West Asia

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced plans to repatriate Indians stranded in West Asia due to ongoing conflicts. He assured the assembly that the central government is taking steps to facilitate their return within the next few days. The state has set up a helpline and is coordinating with local Marathi associations to assist those affected. Despite challenges such as closed airspaces and visa issues, efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of Indian citizens, including students and tourists. Fadnavis emphasized the government's commitment to their safety and well-being.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 4, 2026, 15:51 IST

Efforts to Repatriate Indians from Conflict Zones

On Wednesday, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed optimism that Indians trapped in West Asia due to ongoing conflicts would return within the next two to three days. Speaking during the budget session of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Fadnavis noted that the central government is actively working to facilitate their return, while the state government is in contact with communities in West Asia through Marathi associations.

Fadnavis detailed the measures taken by the state government, including the establishment of a helpline and advisory services to assist Indians stranded in the region. He mentioned that as soon as the conflict erupted, airspace was closed, affecting many Indian citizens who were not residents of those countries. The government began receiving messages from them, prompting immediate communication with the central government and the Ministry of External Affairs. The state's Relief and Rehabilitation Minister, Girish Mahajan, has been assigned to oversee these efforts.

He added that Air India flights are gradually bringing people back, although some airspaces remain closed while others have reopened. There have been challenges regarding visa issuance in Kuwait, but efforts are being made to ensure that all individuals are gathered in one location without facing difficulties. The government is also in touch with Marathi associations in those areas to assist stranded individuals. Fadnavis has also issued advisories through his social media account.

Reassuring the assembly about the safe return of Indians, Fadnavis emphasized that the central government is sensitive to the needs of students and tourists. He mentioned that discussions have taken place with the central authorities regarding the return of Maharashtra residents, although warnings about the chaotic situation and unsafe airspace were also communicated. The central government has initiated efforts, and there is hope that stranded Indians will be repatriated in the coming days. The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to ensuring the safety of Indian tourists and students.