476 Students and Residents from Telugu States Evacuated from Kashmir, Punjab Amid Border Tensions

New Delhi | May 12, 2025 : In a major evacuation effort prompted by recent border tensions, a total of 476 students and residents from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have been safely evacuated from Jammu & Kashmir and other border areas including parts of Punjab.

According to official statements released by both state governments, the evacuees include students from NIT Srinagar, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences, and Lovely Professional University, as well as professionals working in the region.

The Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in New Delhi reported that 350 students from the state have reached the national capital, including 100 who arrived on Sunday from Kashmir and adjoining areas. Of these, 90 students have already departed for their hometowns, while 260 are currently being looked after at the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan.

A 24x7 Control Room has been established at the Bhavan to coordinate support and track further evacuation needs. The evacuees are being provided with free food, accommodation, medical care, and transportation.

Simultaneously, the Telangana government announced that 126 evacuees have reached the Telangana Bhavan, with 91 arriving since last midnight. This group includes students and faculty from various institutions, along with employees working in Jammu & Kashmir. Fifty-seven of these individuals have already resumed their journey home, while the rest continue to be housed at the Bhavan.

The evacuation comes in the wake of the April 22 terror attack on tourists, which claimed 26 civilian lives and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan to levels not seen in decades. However, diplomatic engagement led to a military stand-down on May 10, averting further confrontation.

Authorities from both Telugu states have reassured families back home of the safety of their wards and reiterated their commitment to continuing support for any citizens still stranded in affected areas.