India successfully evacuates 218 from COVID-hit Italy

At least 218 Ind including 211 students from Milan landed in Delhi on Sunday, the Minister of State for foreign affairs V. Muraleedharan said.

New Delhi, March 15 At least 218 Ind including 211 students from Milan landed in Delhi on Sunday, the Minister of State for foreign affairs V. Muraleedharan said.

He tweeted: "218 Ind including 211 students from Milan landed in Delhi. All will be quarantined for 14 days. GoI is committed to reach out to Ind in distress, wherever they are! Appreciate Govt. of Italy for their support and team @IndiainItaly @cgmilan1 @airindiain."

The persons, stranded in Milan's Italy, boarded special aircraft of national carrier Air India, operated on a Boeing 787, sent by the government to evacuate stranded Ind due to coronavirus outbreak.

Of the 218, 7 are other nationals.

The India embassy in Italy said on twitter on Sunday: "211 students & 7 compassionate cases departed by AI flight from Milan. Thanks to those who helped us through this difficult situation. Special thanks to Air Indian team and Italian authorities. Consulate will continue to ensure welfare of all Ind in northern Italy."

Responding to which the External Affairs Minister thanked Binoy George, the Consul General of India in Milan. "Thank you CG @georgebinoy Keep up the good work." tweeted the minister.

The national carrier's special ferry flight took-off from New Delhi on Saturday afternoon.

( With inputs from IANS )