Increasing Number of Indian Students Abroad Raises Safety Issues
As the number of Indian students pursuing education overseas continues to rise, so do concerns regarding their safety. Recent incidents involving Indian students in countries like Canada have highlighted the potential dangers these young individuals face while studying abroad.
Currently, Indian students constitute the largest group of international students in both the United States and Canada, overtaking other nationalities for the first time in over a decade. As of 2024, approximately 1.33 million Indian students are enrolled in educational institutions globally, while the number of Chinese students stands at just over 1 million, according to government statistics.
In December 2024 alone, three Indian students lost their lives in separate occurrences in Canada, drawing attention to the rising safety concerns. One incident involved a 22-year-old postgraduate student from Punjab who was fatally stabbed by his roommate shortly after arriving in Ontario. Additionally, another student tragically died when a tree collapsed on her during a bonfire in British Columbia, which authorities classified as a non-suspicious event. Furthermore, a 20-year-old student was shot and killed by a gang in Edmonton while working as a security guard.
In light of these events, the Indian government has issued safety advisories urging students to exercise extreme caution. Indian Foreign Affairs Minister has stated that embassies and consulates are actively monitoring these incidents and are in regular communication with students regarding safety measures, particularly in areas identified as high-risk.
Canada hosts the highest number of Indian students, with enrollment exceeding 400,000 in 2024. Many of these students use their education as a pathway to immigration, which has led to concerns about the quality of institutions they attend and the challenges they face in settling into life abroad. Reports indicate that numerous students find themselves in difficult situations, including financial struggles and susceptibility to exploitation by dishonest agents.
Students living in less affluent neighborhoods have expressed feelings of vulnerability to crime. A student based in Toronto noted that often, individuals find themselves victims of crime simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
With the increasing presence of Indian students globally, there are growing calls for host nations to ensure a secure environment for these individuals. Recent data indicates that at least 633 Indian students have died abroad over the past five years across 41 countries, with the highest fatalities occurring in Canada and the United States.
Former Indian Foreign Secretary emphasized the importance of host countries educating their communities about the presence of international students to mitigate issues related to racism and violence. It is crucial that violence against students is not tolerated.
Additionally, an analysis conducted by a U.S.-based organization examined the various causes of deaths among Indian students abroad, identifying issues ranging from violent crimes to accidents stemming from a lack of safety awareness. The increase in fatalities raises concerns about how such incidents may affect future enrollment from Indian students in foreign institutions.
Experts advocate for enhanced protective measures and support from both local governments and Indian authorities to ensure student safety abroad. Stronger systems need to be established to support students and ensure their well-being while they pursue their education overseas.
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