Chandigarh, March 5, 2026: In view of the ongoing tensions in several Middle Eastern countries, the Punjab Government has taken an important step to ensure the safe and smooth return of Punjabis who are currently stranded in the region. Acting on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state government has deployed two senior officers to coordinate and monitor the entire process of providing assistance to affected people.
The Punjab Government stated that its primary objective is to ensure that Punjabis stuck in the conflict-affected areas of the Middle East receive timely support and that their return to India takes place in a safe and organized manner. The government has assured that every possible effort will be made to help residents of Punjab who are facing difficulties due to the emerging situation abroad.
24×7 Helpline Established for Assistance
To address the concerns of families and individuals affected by the situation, the Punjab Government has established a 24-hour helpline with immediate effect. Through this helpline, families of people stranded in Middle Eastern countries can contact the authorities to seek information, assistance, or guidance.
The helpline is expected to serve as a key communication channel between the state administration and the families of those currently abroad. Officials said that all calls received on the helpline will be carefully recorded and attended to on priority.
Senior Officers Appointed to Oversee the Process
As part of the government’s response mechanism, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) R.K. Jaiswal has been designated as the overall in-charge of the helpline. He will supervise the functioning of the helpline and ensure that every request for assistance is handled efficiently.
Meanwhile, Vimal Setia, Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs, has been appointed as the Nodal Officer responsible for coordinating and monitoring all related activities. The Nodal Officer will ensure that information received through the helpline is processed quickly and appropriate action is taken whenever required.
Coordination with Ministry of External Affairs
The Punjab Government has also instructed the Nodal Officer to remain in continuous contact with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. This coordination is crucial to track the steps being taken by the central government for the evacuation and safety of Indian citizens stranded in the Middle East and other affected regions.
Officials said that the Nodal Officer will regularly monitor the situation and share relevant information with the concerned authorities so that Punjabis in distress can receive timely help.
All Helpline Calls Will Be Properly Documented
According to the state government, every call received through the helpline will be properly documented and monitored. If any request requires intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs or other government agencies, the matter will be taken up immediately.
This system will help authorities maintain a clear record of individuals seeking assistance and ensure that necessary steps are taken without delay.
Punjab Government Assures Full Support
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the decision to establish the helpline and appoint senior officers was taken considering the urgent situation faced by Punjabis living in Middle Eastern countries.
He emphasized that the Punjab Government stands firmly with its people during this difficult time and is fully committed to extending all possible support and assistance to them and their families.
The Chief Minister further stated that the state government is closely monitoring the situation and working in coordination with the Government of India to ensure the safety and return of Punjabis from the affected regions.
Support for Families in Punjab
The Punjab Government also highlighted that arrangements have been made to assist families in Punjab who are worried about their relatives abroad. Through the helpline, families can seek updates, share information about their relatives, and request assistance from the authorities.
Officials added that the administration remains fully alert and prepared to respond quickly to any situation that may arise. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Punjabis stranded abroad receive the necessary help and that their safe return is facilitated as soon as possible.
