Centre Monitors Safety of Indian Students Abroad

The Indian government has stated that its missions abroad maintain regular contact with Indian students studying in foreign universities. This is to ensure their safety and security while studying abroad.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh made this statement in response to a question in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, July 23. The question was raised by Shri Ravi Chandra Vaddiraju regarding grievances related to labour exploitation and safety issues faced by Indians working or studying overseas.

The government has said that the safety, security, protection, and wellbeing of Indian nationals abroad remain a priority. Indian Embassies and Consulates make efforts to remain in regular contact with students enrolled in foreign universities within their jurisdictions. They brief students about possible challenges and risks associated with studying abroad and precautions they should take.

Advisories are issued from time to time, particularly in situations where students may be more vulnerable. The government said missions are especially vigilant in countries facing political instability or economic crises, as well as places where students may face a higher risk of being misled or exploited.

Complaints concerning misleading academic programmes or adverse experiences are taken up with the concerned educational institutions. Where necessary, the missions also approach the relevant authorities in the host country for further action.

Indian nationals facing difficulties overseas can approach the concerned Embassy or Consulate through several channels. These include walk-in assistance, email, multilingual 24x7 emergency helpline numbers, WhatsApp, grievance redressal platforms, and social media platforms.

The government has also established Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendras in key locations to provide guidance and counselling to Indian nationals who need assistance. Indian missions conduct Open Houses and Consular Camps to interact directly with members of the Indian community and address their concerns.

For Indian workers facing exploitation or safety-related problems, several Embassies and Consulates have dedicated Labour Wings. Once a complaint is received, the concerned mission takes up the matter with the employer and local authorities.

The government's efforts to ensure the safety and security of Indian students abroad are a significant step towards protecting the interests of Indian nationals overseas. This initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to providing support and assistance to Indians studying and working abroad.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Indian students studying abroad. The government's efforts to monitor their safety and security are crucial in ensuring their wellbeing and protecting them from potential risks.

The Indian government's initiative to establish Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendras and conduct Open Houses and Consular Camps has provided Indian nationals with easy access to assistance and support. This has helped to build trust and confidence among the Indian community abroad.

In conclusion, the Indian government's efforts to ensure the safety and security of Indian students abroad are a significant step towards protecting the interests of Indian nationals overseas. The government's commitment to providing support and assistance to Indians studying and working abroad is a positive development that will have a significant impact on the lives of Indian nationals abroad.