403 deaths of Indian students abroad reported since 2018: Govt tells Parliament

NEW DELHI: 403 incidents of death of Indian students abroad have been reported since 2018, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. The highest number of deaths, 91, happened in Canada.

The minister was replying to a question regarding the country-wise number of Indian students studying abroad who have died from 2018 onwards, their reasons; and whether the government has implemented any measures to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students studying abroad.

“As per the information available with the Ministry, 403 incidents of death of Indian students abroad have been reported since 2018 due to various reasons including natural causes, accidents and medical conditions,” the minister said.

Talking about measures taken by the government, the MoS said the safety and security of Indian students abroad is one of the foremost priorities for the government. Mission heads and senior officials visit universities and educational institutions for regular interactions with Indian students and student associations.

“In case there is any untoward incident, it is immediately taken up with the concerned authorities of the host country to ensure that the incident is properly investigated and the perpetrators are punished. Further, the distressed Indian students are provided all possible consular assistance, including emergency medical care and boarding/lodging, whenever required,” he added.

The country-wise number of students who died abroad since 2018 is: