Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa government is closely monitoring the safety of the Goan diaspora residing in Gulf countries amid the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant informed the Legislative Assembly on Monday.
The statement was made in response to a Calling Attention Motion moved by MLAs Ulhas Tuenkar and Michael Lobo, who raised concerns over the safety of Goans working in Gulf nations in view of escalating tensions in the region.
Sawant said Goa has a sizeable Non-Resident Indian (NRI) and diaspora community in the Arabian Gulf, with many residing in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Oman, with the UAE having the largest number of Goans.
He noted that the conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, has affected several countries in the region to varying degrees.
The Chief Minister stated that the Goa government is maintaining close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian missions in Gulf countries to obtain updates on the situation and ensure the safety of the Goan diaspora.
Sawant assured the House that all possible support would be extended to Goan NRIs and the diaspora community if required. He added that while the situation remains volatile, there is no need for panic at present as transport and flight services are still available for movement of people from the Gulf countries.
The Indian embassies in countries including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have also issued advisories for Indian nationals in view of the developing situation.
The Chief Minister further said the Goa government is awaiting instructions from the Government of India regarding matters related to essential supplies such as fuel and LPG, or any possible evacuation measures for Indians from the region if required.
He reiterated that the state government remains vigilant and is continuously liaising with the Centre to respond promptly to any developments affecting the Goan community in the Gulf.
