Iran Crisis: Indian Medical Students Plan Exit Via Armenia and Azerbaijan Routes

Indian students studying in Iran have begun making arrangements to leave the country amid growing safety concerns. The first group is expected to move towards the Armenia border on Thursday as evacuation efforts slowly take shape.

Rising anxiety over the security situation in Iran has prompted many Indian students to consider leaving the country. According to information shared with students, those studying at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) and Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBUMS) have been offered two possible evacuation routes.

Students can either travel through Armenia or cross into Azerbaijan, with coordination taking place between authorities and student groups to ensure safe movement towards these exit points.

Which evacuation routes are being arranged?

For many students, land routes remain the primary option being explored. Those from universities in Tehran have been advised that they may travel towards the Armenia or Azerbaijan borders depending on logistical arrangements.

At Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, where 86 Indian medical students are currently studying, authorities have suggested a different plan to facilitate evacuation. Under this arrangement, students may travel through Shiraz, then to Qom, and finally reach Baku Airport in Azerbaijan, from where they can board international flights to India.

Are some students choosing to fly back instead?

Not all students are waiting for organised evacuation through land routes. Several have opted to return to India by commercial flights instead.

Many have already booked Flydubai flights scheduled for March 15, March 16 and the following days, planning to travel home after reaching nearby international airports.

What concerns are students and families raising?

Growing uncertainty has triggered distress calls from students across multiple Iranian universities. Mohammad Momin Khan, President of the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) J&K, said he has been contacted by students studying at Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences and Isfahan University of Medical Sciences.

"Students are calling continuously and requesting evacuation as they believe no part of Iran is currently safe," Khan said, highlighting the concerns being expressed by students and their families back home.

Who is coordinating support for the students?

Student organisations and political representatives have been working to raise the issue and coordinate assistance. Khan acknowledged the support of Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament, who has been in touch with students and authorities.

"Dr Khan also expressed gratitude to Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament, for his constant support and coordination in addressing the concerns of Indian students and assisting in efforts to facilitate their safe return," the statement said.

As several batches prepare to leave Iran in the coming days, students and their families remain hopeful that evacuation arrangements will continue to improve and allow them to return home safely.

(With inputs from ANI)