The second phase of Vande Bharat Mission to bring back stranded and distressed citizens to India in the time of pandemic begins today and will continue till 22nd of this month. At least 39 flights have been scheduled from the Gulf countries in this second phase. Eleven flights have been scheduled from the United Arab Emirates.

Our Correspondent reports that 177 distressed Indians will be brought back in Dubai to Kochi flight today. More than 100 women and medical emergency cases have been given priority along with distressed workers. Consul General at Indian Consulate in Dubai, Vipul said that care has been taken to accommodate women in advanced stages of pregnancy, medical cases and other distressed Indians. He said that more flights will be arranged in coming days to send back distressed Indians.

The first phase saw the repatriation of nearly 5,000 distressed Indians from the Gulf countries in 29 flights.