Several Indians return from protest-hit Iran in commercial flights

Overview Amid widespread protests and a government crackdown in Iran, several Indian nationals, including students, have returned to New Delhi via commercial flights. The flights arrived at Delhi airport on the night of January 16, 2026 . The situation in Iran is marked by significant unrest due to economic grievances and demands for political reforms, prompting the Indian government to issue advisories for its citizens. Key Developments Arrival of Indians: Several Indians arrived in New Delhi on January 16, 2026 , on commercial flights from Iran. Reasons for Return: The return is linked to widespread protests in Iran and a government crackdown that has reportedly resulted in over 2,500 deaths. Student Perspective: A medical student from Shiraz reported internet disruptions, limiting awareness of the situation. Government Response: The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been providing reassurance to Indian nationals. The External Affairs Ministry has issued advisories against travel to Iran. Number of Indians in Iran: Approximately 9,000 Indian nationals reside in Iran, primarily students. Context of the Protests The protests in Iran are primarily driven by: Inflation: Rising prices impacting the cost of living. Currency Devaluation: The Iranian Rial has plunged to record lows. Political Demands: Protests have evolved from economic grievances to demands for political change. Indian Government's Response The Indian government, through the External Affairs Ministry, has taken the following steps: Travel Advisories: Issued advisories against traveling to Iran. Monitoring the Situation: Closely monitoring developments in Iran. Assurance of Support: Committed to ensuring the safety and interests of Indian nationals. Statements from Returning Nationals Ali Naqui: Part of a group of travelers, stated they did not face any problems. Medical Student from Shiraz: Reported internet disruptions and confirmed the situation in Shiraz was "fine". Abbas Qazmi: Expressed initial anxiety due to internet shutdown but was reassured once communication resumed. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under the following areas: GS2: International Relations: Understanding India's relations with Iran and its role in regional stability. GS2: Government Policies: Analyzing the government's response to protect its citizens abroad. GS3: Economy: Examining the economic factors driving unrest in Iran and their potential impact on India. Potential Exam Questions Prelims: Factual questions about the number of Indians in Iran, the reasons for the protests, and the government's response. Mains: Analytical questions about the implications of the Iranian protests on regional stability and India's foreign policy. Essay: Themes related to the role of economic factors in triggering political instability and India's responsibility towards its citizens abroad.

Several Indians return from protest-hit Iran in commercial flights

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Several Indians return from protest-hit Iran in commercial flights

Several Indians return from protest-hit Iran in commercial flights

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