Operation Ganga: Inside India's Student Rescue Mission

When war broke out in Ukraine, thousands of Indian students found themselves stuck in a dangerous zone. The Indian government quickly launched Operation Ganga to get them out safely. It wasn’t just a travel plan – it was a full‑on diplomatic effort involving flights, border crossings, and constant coordination with foreign officials.

How the operation got started

Within days of the conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) set up a special task force. Their first job was to locate every Indian student on the ground. Using embassy data, social media checks, and phone calls, they built a list of more than 16,000 names. The next step was figuring out safe routes out of the country.

Because many borders were closed, the team worked with neighboring nations like Poland, Romania, and Hungary. They secured special permits for buses and trains to cross into these countries. Once the students reached a friendly border, the MEA arranged chartered flights from Warsaw, Bucharest, and other hubs straight back to India.

Challenges on the ground

One big hurdle was the fast‑changing security situation. Bombings and artillery strikes made some routes impossible overnight. The task force had to constantly update travel advice and sometimes reroute groups at the last minute. Another issue was paperwork – many students didn’t have valid visas or passports, so consular officers had to issue emergency travel documents on the spot.

Communication was also a nightmare. With internet outages and phone networks overloaded, the MEA set up a 24/7 helpline and a dedicated WhatsApp number. Students could text their location, and officials would send real‑time updates. This simple tech move saved countless hours and prevented panic.

Despite the drama, the operation succeeded in bringing home over 12,000 students within a month. A few stayed back to finish their studies, but most returned safely thanks to the coordinated effort.

What Operation Ganga means for the future

Operation Ganga showed that a swift, well‑organized diplomatic response can protect citizens abroad. It highlighted the need for better emergency databases, faster document issuance, and stronger ties with neighboring countries. The MEA has now promised regular drills and clearer guidelines for students planning to study overseas.

For families, the mission brought relief and a sense of security. For the government, it was a reminder that rapid action, clear communication, and teamwork can make a huge difference when crises hit far away.

So, if you or someone you know is thinking about studying abroad, keep an eye on the embassy’s emergency contacts and stay informed about any geopolitical shifts. Knowing the steps taken during Operation Ganga can help you stay prepared and calm if something unexpected happens.