External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar today informed the Lok Sabha that there are about 6000 Indian nationals in various provinces of Iran, including 1100 pilgrims mainly from Ladakh, J&K and Maharashtra, nearly 300 students primarily from J&K and about a 1000 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Gujarat and others who are on longer-term stay visas in Iran for pursuing their livelihood.<br />''<br />''In a statement made by him in the House, Minister also said that he visited Srinagar recently & took the initiative to meet the parents of some of the students who are in Iran. Their anxiety at this time is completely understandable.<br />''<br />''Mr. Jaishankar also said that he assured them that govt would facilitate the earliest possible return of their children. He informed the House that sampling of these students has begun today.<br />''<br />''Various members expressed concerns over the issue and praised the steps taken by the External Affairs Ministry.<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Discussion is underway.</span><br />