The first batch of Indians has arrived from Ukraine as the nation remains engaged in conflict with Russia. The flight landed in Mumbai as the passengers chanted ‘Jai Hind’. Union Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed them back and urged them not to worry. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to ensure the safe passage of Indians despite the on-ground situation there. 

Further, Goyal noted that Modi’s conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin had also resulted in the Russians agreeing to do their bit to help Indians evacuate. 

In the video, Goyal can be heard urging Indians to remain strong and to share this strength with those still in Ukraine. The Union Minister also noted that there’ll be another flight arriving in Delhi shortly, with more Indians on board. He also took the opportunity to thank the crew of the now Tata-owned Air India. 

The Union Minister ended his message by conveying PM Modi’s welcome to the Indians and stated this is what true nationalism means. 

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ANI reported an Air India flight attendant saying, “We are very happy to bring our students back home. The students were filled with joy once we landed here in Mumbai. Thanks to the Government of India for giving us this opportunity”. Meanwhile, the agency quoted an MBBS student returning from India, who said, “I had trust upon Indian govt that they will definitely bring us back to our country. There was some fear and panic, but we are very happy to be back to India”.

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Beforehand, the Mumbai airport had a special corridor set up for the Indians returning from Ukraine. It set up arrangements for food, water, and medical facilities. Further, provisions have been made for temperature checks, and those arriving have had to show a negative RT-PCR test or a COVID-19 vaccine certificate.