External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday assured safe return home for Indian citizens worldwide and recalled how India’s foreign policy was at the forefront for the evacuation of Indian nationals under Operation Indravati to evacuate its nationals from the violence-hit Haiti and Operation Ganga in Ukraine.

Jaishankar underscored the importance of Indian citizens having confidence in the government’s support, regardless of their location or the challenges they may face. He assured that the Indian government stands ready to assist its citizens in any eventuality, whether it be in conflict zones like Ukraine or natural disasters like the earthquake in Nepal.

In an effort to evacuate Indian citizens from Ukraine, India operated a total of 90 flights. While some countries were running 4-5 flights, many left their citizens there.

Jaishankar emphasized that countries that abandon their citizens in times of need will not command respect. He recounted significant events in recent years, including the earthquake in Nepal, war in Yemen, conflict in Sudan and Gaza, and the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan, where India provided refuge to those seeking safety.

He affirmed that the objective of such initiatives is to instill confidence among Indian citizens travelling abroad.

Jaishankar emphasized the assurance given to Indian citizens, stating that if they are leaving India’s borders to go abroad, they should go with full confidence that the Indian government stands with them.

“This assurance is not merely rhetoric but is demonstrated through tangible actions repeatedly undertaken by the government,” he added.

Indian government through its evacuation operation in Sudan and Ukraine has proved that India will never leave its people behind during crises. Operation Kaveri was launched to evacuate Indian nationals from Sudan.

India also evacuated its nationals under Operation Devi Shakti in Afghanistan and Vande Bharat mission during the COVID-19 pandemic.