Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION
be pleased to state:-
(a) whether a special drive was launched for safe return of the citizens under Vande Bharat Mission (VBM) during Covid-19 pandemic;
(b) if so, the number of Indians who have been brought back under VBM so far including the names of the countries from where they have been brought back; and
(c) the funds spent by the Government in this regard including the details thereof?
Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION
(GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD))
(a) During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government of India has undertaken the Vande Bharat Mission which is aimed at repatriation of stranded and distressed Indian nationals in various parts of the world.
(b) Till 22.07.2021, more than 71 lakh passengers have traveled to India from various parts of the world. List of countries from which passengers have traveled to India is at Annexure.
(c) The Ministry of Civil Aviation has not incurred any expenditure for the Vande Bharat Mission.