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84 Indian Students Stranded in West Asia Return Safely Amid Iran-US Conflict

Eighty-four MBA students from Pune's Indira University have safely returned to India after being stranded in Dubai due to airspace closures amid the West Asia conflict. The university's dean expressed immense relief, highlighting the emotional struggle and praising Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a pivotal saviour in the crisis. The students, who were on an immersion program, had their flights suddenly cancelled but were supported with extended hotel stays and constant communication. The incident occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions following US and Israeli strikes in Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions.

Key Points: Indian Students Return from West Asia Amid Iran-US Conflict

  • 84 MBA students stranded in Dubai
  • Airspace closed due to Iran-US conflict
  • University ensured constant communication
  • Maharashtra Dy CM praised for aid
  • Students were on immersion program
2 min read

"Eknath Shinde became god for us": Indira University dean as 84 stranded students return amid West Asia crisis

84 MBA students from Pune's Indira University safely return after being stranded in Dubai due to West Asia airspace closures. University dean praises state response.

"Dy CM Eknath Shinde became a god for us in that moment - Shikha Sindhu"

Pimpri Chinchwad, March 5

After the safe return of 84 Indira University students who were stranded in West Asia due to the Iran-US conflict, the university's Dean, Shikha Sindhu, on Thursday expressed relief and gratitude, saying the university's foremost concern was bringing the students back as quickly as possible.

She stated that the entire team was focused only on ensuring their safe return and described Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a "saviour" during the crisis. While there were no major logistical challenges, she noted that the situation was emotionally difficult, adding that constant communication with the students was maintained throughout.

"The only thought running through our heads was how soon we get them back... Dy CM Eknath Shinde became a god for us in that moment... There were no challenges, but an emotional struggle... One thing that was very important was that the communication with them was never broken," the dean told ANI.

A returning student shared that they had travelled for an immersion program and were scheduled to return safely when they suddenly learned their flights had been cancelled. The university management promptly extended their hotel stay and ensured that all necessary arrangements were provided on time.

"We were sent there for an immersion program... We were going to come back safely, and on that day, we got to know that our flights had been cancelled... Our management has extended the stay at the hotel, and everything was provided to us on time," the student told ANI.

Eighty-four MBA students from Pune-based Indira University were unable to fly back from Dubai after airspaces were closed due to the evolving conflict in West Asia.

Meanwhile, West Asia has entered its sixth day following the February 28 US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, along with other key figures. In retaliation, Tehran has responded with counter-strikes targeting American military bases in Gulf nations and other Israeli assets across the region.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While it's great the students are safe, calling a politician "god" feels like a bit much, no? Officials are just doing their job. The real credit should go to the ground staff and diplomats who worked behind the scenes.
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Priya S
As a parent, I can only imagine the anxiety. Thank God they are back. This is a lesson for all universities sending students abroad - have a solid contingency plan and travel insurance. Safety first always.
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Vikram M
Good work by the authorities. But we must also think about the thousands of Indian workers still in the Gulf region. The government should have a clear evacuation plan ready for all citizens if tensions escalate further.
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Rohit P
Dubai is generally very safe, but when global powers clash, common people get stuck. Glad our students are okay. The university did the right thing by extending the hotel stay immediately. That's responsible management.
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Kavya N
Emotional moment for sure! When you're stranded far from home, even a small gesture feels huge. Keeping communication open was key. Well done to the team. Hope the students are getting some rest and counseling if needed.

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