New Delhi: Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra said on Monday that the state government was concerned about students from the state stuck in Ukraine, which is under the threat of siege from neighbouring Russia.
When asked about the 60 Indore students who are trapped in Ukraine due to the prevailing situation in that country over its tensions with Russia, Mishra said Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan wanted them to return to the state by February 22-23, PTI reported.
"The Central government has issued an advisory on this. Arrangement of aircraft etc has been made to get the students back. Everyone is concerned about the situation, including Prime Minister, Chief Minister and state government," Mishra was quoted by PTI in its report.
Indian Embassy Advises Citizens To Leave Ukraine
The Indian Embassy in Ukraine had previously issued an advisory urging Indian citizens who were not required to stay in the country to leave Ukraine temporarily due to rising border tensions, ANI reported.
“In view of the continued high levels of tensions and uncertainties with respect to the situation in Ukraine, all Indian nationals whose stay is not deemed essential and all Indian students, are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily. Available commercial flights and charter flights may be availed for travel, for orderly and timely departure," the Indian Embassy advisory said.
The embassy also requested that Indian students contact their particular student contractors for information on charter flights.
“Indian students are advised to also get in touch with respective student contractors for updates on charter flights, and also continue to follow Embassy Facebook, website and Twitter for any update," the advisory further said.
On February 15, it had also advised its residents to leave Kyiv temporarily due to the growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
In a statement, India asked its citizens to keep the Embassy updated about their whereabouts so that it may contact them if necessary.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has lifted the limit on the number of flights that may be flown between India and Ukraine under the bilateral air bubble agreement, making it easier for Indians to fly to and from Ukraine.
Air India has announced that three flights would be operated between India and Ukraine next week, on February 22, 24, and 26.
Flights will depart from Boryspil International Airport, with reservations available through Air India's booking offices, internet, contact centre, and authorised travel brokers.
(With Agencies Inputs)