147 Tamils have so far returned to their native place from Israel, according to the Department of Tamil Nadu Welfare. The Tamil Nadu government has been actively involved in repatriating Tamils stranded in Israel due to the escalating war between Israel and Palestine.
Through helpline numbers announced by the Tamil Nadu government under the guidance of the Chief Minister, information was obtained about 158 Tamils stranded in Israel. The Department of Tamil Nadu Welfare established contact with them and assessed their needs.
Based on this information, the Tamil Nadu government facilitated the return of 98 Tamils who had arrived in New Delhi in four phases. On October 17, 2023, 23 Tamils who arrived in New Delhi from Israel under Operation Ajay were warmly welcomed by the Tamil Nadu government. Air tickets were arranged for their journey back home. Minister for Minority Welfare and Expatriate Welfare, Mr. Senji K.S. Masthan, welcomed four persons at the Coimbatore Airport and ensured their safe transport to their hometowns using government-provided vehicles.
At Chennai airport, 17 individuals were welcomed by Member of Parliament, Mr. Kalanithi Veerasamy, District Tamil Welfare Commissioner Jacinda Lazarus, and department officials. They were then sent to their respective hometowns. In a similar way, two individuals who arrived at Madurai airport were received by the district administration and transported to their native places at the expense of the government.
In total, 121 Tamils have returned to Tamil Nadu from Israel at the expense of the Tamil Nadu government, while 26 individuals covered their own expenses. The state government has made it a priority to ensure the safe return of all stranded Tamils and continues to work on facilitating their repatriation.
The efforts made by the Tamil Nadu government in bringing back these individuals have been widely appreciated. The government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, regardless of their location, is a testament to its dedication to providing assistance and support to those in need.
This news article was originally published on Dinakaran.