Over 7,200 Indian Students Return from Bangladesh Amid Unrest

More than 7,200 Indian students have returned to India from Bangladesh due to the ongoing situation. Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh reported that around 19,000 Indian citizens, including over 9,000 students, were in Bangladesh. No special evacuation campaign has been launched, but efforts for safe returns are underway.

Over 7,200 Indian students have returned from Bangladesh in recent weeks, as reported to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. The move comes in response to the current unrest in the neighboring country. Singh disclosed that an estimated 19,000 Indian citizens, including over 9,000 students, reside in Bangladesh. Despite no formal evacuation initiative, efforts have been made to ensure their safe return.

Indian High Commissions in Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna are actively assisting citizens in their voluntary return. Coordination with Bangladeshi authorities has been crucial for the safe passage of returning citizens. The Ministry of External Affairs also ensures smooth transit at land ports and airports.

Further, Singh addressed bilateral educational exchanges and regional security. According to IRCC, the number of Indian students in Canadian universities has risen over the past three years. On regional matters, Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First Policy' and detailed humanitarian aid sent to Gaza in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. He also noted the deployment of Indian workers in Israel, reflecting ongoing diplomatic initiatives.