Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed Indian fishermen upon their return to Chennai after being repatriated from Iran through Armenia. This repatriation followed extensive diplomatic efforts by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Goyal emphasised the significance of the day for the families of the fishermen who had faced challenges while stranded in Iran due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

During his address to the media, Goyal expressed joy at the return of the fishermen, who he noted had endured a lengthy journey. He described the moment as one filled with happiness for the families awaiting their loved ones and said, “It was a difficult journey for them. They had to go 20 hours to Armenia and other countries.” Goyal acknowledged the intense work and dedication shown by MEA officials to ensure a safe return for the fishermen.

VIDEO | A total of 345 Tamil Nadu fishermen who were stranded in war-torn Iran arrived at the Chennai international airport following a coordinated repatriation effort.

They were welcomed by Union Minister and BJP’s Tamil Nadu election in-charge, Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal).… pic.twitter.com/zd0yZ3j5ia

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 4, 2026

The minister articulated his delight at their arrival back in India, stating, “We are very happy to receive them and welcome them back home.” The return of these fishermen marks a significant milestone for both the families involved and the government’s international diplomatic efforts.

Vanakkam and welcome to the motherland! 🙏🏻

A joyous day for us as PM @NarendraModi ji has ensured that our fishermen brothers and sisters get back safely from Iran. pic.twitter.com/hvRCtMTUiw

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) April 4, 2026

Political Reactions and Controversy

Following the welcoming remarks, Goyal addressed comments made by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin regarding allegations of imposing Hindi in the state. Goyal contended that Stalin’s statements reflected desperation as he faced an impending election. He claimed, “I think Stalin has lost this election. He has already given up on these elections,” while asserting that there is no intention to impose Hindi on the people of Tamil Nadu.

Goyal reinforced that the desire was for Tamil to be promoted, with any third language being optional for students. He stated, “There is no compulsion to learn any particular language,” addressing ongoing tensions between regional and national language policies.

This exchange follows a debate between CM Stalin and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan regarding the National Education Policy (NEP) and fund allocations for Tamil Nadu amid alleged reluctance to adopt a three-language formula. The political discourse highlights ongoing regional sensitivities relating to language and education reform.

Support from Armenian Officials

On the same day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the Armenian government for their role in facilitating the evacuation of Indian fishermen from Iran. He specifically thanked his Armenian counterpart, Ararat Mirzoyan, for aiding the process that allowed Indian citizens to return safely. Jaishankar utilised social media platform X to extend his thanks, noting that Armenia had become a crucial partner in this humanitarian effort.

Armenia has been instrumental in assisting the evacuation of Indian nationals caught in the conflict in Iran. Reports indicate that more than 1,200 Indian citizens have been evacuated, with 996 of them successfully transported to Armenia before returning to India.

The situation regarding the Indian fishermen’s evacuation underscores the complexities of international relations in conflict zones and the vital role of diplomacy in resolving humanitarian issues. Goyal’s welcoming remarks not only celebrated the repatriation of fishermen but simultaneously highlighted the entwined relationship between domestic politics and foreign policy. This event showcases the broader implications of international cooperation amidst challenging circumstances.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share