In the heart of New Delhi, there was a shimmering sight to behold on a serene Friday morning. The sun dawned upon the tarmac of the Delhi airport, gleaming off the surface of a plane that bore not just passengers but tales of perseverance, hope, and a relentless nation's promise.

Under the banner of 'Operation Ajay', the plane touched down, bearing the first batch of 212 Indian nationals, returning from Israel amidst the raging war. Their journey back home, however, was no mere flight. It was a testament to India's, that is Bharat's, unwavering commitment to its people, irrespective of where they might be in the world.

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar stood there, a pillar of warmth and assurance. As the doors opened and the returning nationals disembarked, Chandrasekhar's folded hands gracefully greeted them. It was a scene of pure emotion and patriotism, capturing the very essence of Indian culture and values.

But it wasn't just about the greetings. The minister, representing the country's leadership, took the time to engage with the students, the young souls who carry the future of our great nation. With every interaction, Chandrasekhar underscored a crucial message: India, under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, stands resolute in its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of every Indian.

These aren't just words on paper. The safe return of these individuals, against the backdrop of an ongoing war, exemplifies this commitment in action. As the 212 Indians set foot on their motherland, their expressions said it all. Gratitude, relief, and an overwhelming sense of pride.

For India, that is Bharat, the spirit of unity isn't just about geographical borders. It's a bond that transcends continents, ensuring that every Indian, no matter where they are, always finds a way back home. This is the India we know, the India we cherish, and the India that stands tall amidst challenges, echoing Prime Minister Modi's determination to shield its own.

Unyielding Commitment: India Stands by its People

In a world where uncertainties lurk in every corner, India, our Bharat, remains an unwavering beacon of hope and determination for its citizens. This sentiment echoed profoundly in Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar's voice when he firmly stated, "Our government will never leave any Indian behind." In the vast halls of the Delhi airport, these words held a resonance that was both poignant and reassuring.

This commitment emanates right from the top. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolute spirit of protecting and serving every Indian citizen, no matter where they might be, has been the guiding light in these trying times. Chandrasekhar went on to express the nation's gratitude, emphasizing, "We are grateful to EAM Dr. S Jaishankar, the team at the External Affairs Ministry, and the flight crew of this Air India flight." Their relentless efforts, combined with national resolve, ensured that our children, our brethren, returned safely into the embrace of their loved ones.

But what did this mean to those who found themselves amidst the stormy tumult in Israel? A heartfelt statement from one of the returning Indian nationals shed light on the magnitude of this operation's significance. Speaking to ANI, he recounted the unprecedented challenges they faced in Israel, saying, "This is the first time that we are facing this situation over there." But it was his next words, filled with gratitude, that truly touched the heart: "We are very thankful to the Indian government, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing us back." The hope of returning to normalcy, of peace reigning supreme so they could get back to their lives, resonated in his voice.

The journey, which commenced from Tel Aviv under the vigilant banner of Operation Ajay, culminated in a triumphant return to the Indian soil on Thursday. This operation wasn't just about logistics or diplomatic channels; it was an affirmation of India's, that is Bharat's, promise to its citizens. A promise that, come what may, India will stand tall, ensuring that its children are never left behind. And as the wheels of the plane touched the homeland, it wasn't just an aircraft landing; it was a nation's promise being fulfilled.

The skies of Israel might have been shrouded with uncertainty, but in its midst, a ray of hope and determination emerged in the form of the Indian Embassy, unwavering in its dedication to safeguarding the well-being of every Indian national.

The Indian Ambassador to Israel, Sanjeev Singla, stands as a testament to this devotion. Speaking with a conviction that embodies the spirit of Bharat, he declared, “The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv has been working continuously to ensure the safety and welfare of all our Indian citizens in Israel." This mission, christened as "Operation Ajay," was initiated on the orders of the external affairs minister and stands as a beacon of hope for every Indian longing for the comforting embrace of their homeland.

Emphasizing the scope and expanse of this endeavor, Ambassador Singla detailed, “It’s going to have almost 200 Indian citizens – students, caregivers, and business professionals," and reassuringly added that efforts are in full swing to arrange similar flights in the ensuing days. The promise of another flight as early as tomorrow reverberates the commitment India holds to its citizens, regardless of where they might be.

But it wasn’t just about facilitating their return. It was also about instilling a sense of security and confidence in their hearts. In a message that carries the weight of a nation’s solidarity, Singla implored his fellow citizens to remain calm and vigilant, following local safety advisories, while emphasizing the core message, "We’re always there with them. We are standing with them."

This isn't just the voice of an ambassador; this is the spirit of India - proud, protective, and always persevering. In the toughest of times, India has proven that when we say "unity in diversity," we don't just mean it as a phrase; we live it, we breathe it, and most importantly, we uphold it.

"Unity is strength" - a principle that India has always held in high esteem. And now, when a situation of uncertainty and turbulence has arisen in Israel, India's dedication to its citizens is even more palpable. Through 'Operation Ajay', India has manifested its age-old values of unity, care, and unwavering commitment.

In an emotion-laden conversation with ANI, a returning Indian citizen encapsulated the collective sentiments of many, expressing gratitude to the Indian government. His words reflect the trust and safety felt through “Operation Ajay” during these challenging times.

Taking the helm of this mission, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, detailed the strategy in place to ensure the safety of Indian citizens. "Operation Ajay has been launched to facilitate the return from Israel of our citizens who wish to come back," Bagchi said, emphasizing the meticulous planning behind the operation.

As India keeps an unblinking eye on the evolving situation, it's comforting to note the absence of Indian casualties in the conflict so far. Bagchi's reassuring words, "We haven’t heard of any casualty so far," provide a modicum of solace in these turbulent times.

With approximately 18,000 Indians currently in Israel amidst the conflict, the Indian government's advice remains clear: heed the advisories issued by the Indian mission. This initiative underscores India's relentless commitment to its nationals, irrespective of where they reside.

It's a reminder that in times of adversity, India stands unyielding, acting as a beacon of hope, radiating the warmth of unity, and echoing the indomitable spirit of Bharat. This unwavering support epitomizes India's ethos of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - the world is one family.

This massive endeavor, aiming to bring back around 18,000 Indians, began its operations in full swing with registrations initiating as early as Thursday. With the shadows of conflict looming, the Indian embassy in Israel has moved promptly, setting up a dedicated helpline for its citizens in distress, emphasizing that no Indian will be left behind. Furthermore, to support Indian enterprises in these trying times, the embassy is extending its assistance.

Realizing the gravity of the escalating conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) established a 24-hour control room. This strategic move serves a dual purpose: to keep a vigilant eye on the unfolding situation and to be a beacon of hope, offering timely information and assistance to those in need.

The situation was aptly summarized in the poignant words of the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, who recently chaired a critical review meeting for "Operation Ajay." The minister's leadership shines through, emphasizing India's steadfast commitment to its overseas citizens.

However, amid the protective measures taken by India, the reality remains grim. The onslaught by Hamas militants on Israel has led to a tragic loss of around 2,600 lives. In response, Israel has mounted a significant counter-offensive in Gaza.

As Bharat watches and acts, the nation's heart beats in unison, praying for the safety of its children and for peace to prevail. The collective spirit of India, exemplified by "Operation Ajay," showcases the pride and undying patriotism of a nation that always puts its citizens first.

"Home is Where the Heart is": Indian Students Recall Their Harrowing Experience

For many, Israel is a land of opportunities, of studies, and of a promising future. But the sudden surge in conflicts transformed this dream into a nightmare for several Indian students. Among them was Suparno Ghosh, a bright young mind from West Bengal, currently pursuing his first-year PhD at the prestigious Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba.

As rockets blazed and sirens wailed, Suparno found solace in the well-constructed shelters by the Israeli government. "We were in shelters... the Israeli government has made shelters everywhere, so we were safe," he recollected, emphasizing the efficient crisis management of the Israeli authorities.

Another student, Deepak, recounted the bone-chilling experience. The piercing sound of sirens last Saturday marked the beginning of what would be an ordeal. "We heard sirens on Saturday. As the attack happened, we could hear the sound," Deepak expressed, his voice tinged with palpable distress. The Israeli authorities were swift in issuing safety instructions. But for Deepak, the dual emotions of relief and concern for friends still in Israel were overwhelming. "I am happy to return home, but sad also, as our friends are there (in Israel)," he confided.

Despite the undercurrents of fear and anxiety, one factor that stood out was the efficiency of the evacuation process. As these young minds set foot in Bharat, their motherland, the feeling was bittersweet. Their narratives underline the fragile nature of life and the importance of safety, peace, and unity. But through it all, the unwavering spirit of India shines, promising to be a sanctuary for every Indian, no matter where they are.

The land of Israel, a bustling hub of cultural exchange and global interactions, transformed into a place echoing with the dissonance of sirens for Duti Banerjee. Hailing from the rich cultural tapestry of West Bengal, Duti was among the first Indians to be safely evacuated from the tumultuous region.

Her experience is one of raw emotion. "Normal life has been paused," she lamented, painting a stark contrast between the everyday humdrum and the sudden vacuum that conflict brings. "People are scared and angry," she added, summarizing the collective sentiment of a nation grappling with unrest. Duti's narrative climaxes with her vivid recollection of the last moments before leaving the country. "Even when I was leaving, I heard sirens and had to go to a shelter," she revealed, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the conflict.

Duti's return to Bharat is a testament to the country's commitment to its nationals. Amidst the turmoil, her story underscores the undying spirit of hope, resilience, and the everlasting embrace of the motherland. With folded hands and hearts full of gratitude, we welcome Duti and many like her, ensuring that every child of Bharat finds solace in its nurturing arms.