India asks its nationals in Yemen to leave

India today asked its nationals, whose presence is not essential, to leave Yemen by available commercial means, besides advising the citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the country in view of the evolving situation.

"In view of the evolving situation in Yemen those Indian nationals residing in Yemen, whose presence is not essential, particularly families, may consider leaving the country by the commercial means available," ministry of external affairs in its advisory said.

"All non-essential travel to Yemen, meanwhile, may be avoided until the situation improves," it said.

According to official figures, nearly 11,000 Indians are currently staying in various parts of the country.

Yemen is witnessing massive protests against the regime of President Ali Abdullah Saleh.