Question : Indians Trapped Abroad

(a) whether the number of Indians being trapped in various countries particularly in war torn countries, is on the rise and if so, the details thereof, country-wise along with the number of Indians still trapped in these countries as on date;

(b) the number of rescue missions led by India for the evacuation of Indians and others during the past one year and the current year along with the number of people saved through such operations, country-wise and the response of the other countries in this regard;

(c) whether the Government has taken/ is taking effective steps in consultation with other countries for the safe evacuation of the rest of the persons trapped/held captive in these countries; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the success achieved in this regard, so far?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a) No.

(b) As per information available, total number of Indian nationals in distress repatriated by Missions/Posts from May 2014 – May 2018 is 2,08,186 including those rescued from war-torn countries. Country-wise details are attached as Annexure.


(c) & (d) The Government attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indians in foreign countries and continues to keep a close watch on developments in these countries and issues advisories whenever required. Indian Missions and Posts abroad also render all possible consular assistance to the Indian nationals, including emergency medical care, facilitating boarding and lodging for those in distress, air passages to those stranded, repatriation of mortal remains, legal assistance in deserving cases, including in conflict torn countries. The number of Indian nationals stranded abroad and requiring Government of India’s assistance at any given point in time is dynamic in nature and keeps changing. Indian Missions/posts remain alert to any such requirement and keep extending such assistance in a timely manner.
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