Srinagar: The agonizing wait for hundreds of families across Jammu and Kashmir is set to end. Following escalating protests and airspace uncertainties in Iran, the Government of India has launched a major evacuation mission. The first special flight carrying Indian nationals, including a significant number of students from J&K, is scheduled to depart from Tehran to New Delhi today, January 16, 2026.
This development comes less than 24 hours after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held urgent talks with External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar to ensure the safety of scholars stranded in the region.
JKSA Confirms Student Lists
According to Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), the Indian Embassy in Tehran has completed the registration process for the first batch. The embassy has instructed students to be ready for transit as Iranian authorities have reportedly reopened airspace for civilian traffic after a temporary closure.
“The first batch of students has been informed to remain ready by 8:00 AM. It is most likely that students from Golestan University and a few from SBUMS and TUMS will be part of this first evacuation flight,” Khuehami stated.
Official Coordination & Safety Protocols
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has activated a 24/7 control room to monitor the evacuation. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that EAM Jaishankar has assured full support for the safe return of J&K residents.
“I’m grateful for the assurance that all steps will be taken to safeguard the interests & lives of students & other people from J&K who are in Iran now,” the CM posted.
Local Protests & Administration Response: The announcement brings relief to parents who had gathered outside the Divisional Commissioner’s office in Srinagar yesterday, submitting a memorandum for immediate government intervention. Local administrations in Kashmir have now been alerted to facilitate the students’ travel from New Delhi to Srinagar upon their arrival.
Important Note: The Indian Embassy has strictly advised all nationals to carry their passports and registration slips at all times and to avoid areas with active protests while moving to the airport.
Impact: What Students & Parents Must Do
Families in J&K are advised to keep their phones active for updates from the JKSA or official MEA channels.
- Students in Iran: Must adhere strictly to the embassy’s assembly timings. Do not travel to the airport unless your name is on the confirmed list for Flight 1.
- Parents in J&K: Avoid panic. The evacuation is being conducted in phases. If your ward is not on today’s flight, they will be accommodated in subsequent sorties scheduled for the coming days.
Key Highlights
- Departure Date: Friday, January 16, 2026 (Today).
- Primary Group: Students from Golestan University, SBUMS, and TUMS.
- Official Contact: Indian Embassy in Tehran & MEA Control Room.
FAQ
A1: The first flight prioritizes registered students from Golestan University, SBUMS (Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences), and TUMS who have already submitted their details to the Indian Embassy.
A2: Parents can follow the official MEA India social media handles or contact the JKSA helpline numbers for real-time updates on the flight’s landing in New Delhi.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
Reported by KittoNews Desk | Edited by [Gowhar Nabi]
Source Transparency: Information in this article is based on statements from the [Indian Embassy in Tehran], JKSA Convenor Nasir Khuehami, and official posts by CM Omar Abdullah.
Community Question: Do you think the government should arrange direct connecting flights from Delhi to Srinagar for these students? Let us know in the comments.
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