MEA Pushes Student Registration Drive to Build Database of Indians Studying Abroad

In a bid to strengthen emergency response mechanisms for Indians overseas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has launched a fresh awareness campaign urging students studying abroad to register with Indian embassies and high commissions.

The move follows recent global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in West Asia, during which Indian missions faced difficulties tracking and assisting large numbers of students during evacuation operations. Officials said the absence of a centralised database has emerged as a major challenge as more Indians pursue higher education overseas.

India is estimated to have over one million students studying abroad, but the government currently relies largely on visa statistics released by foreign countries and estimates compiled by missions abroad. Sources said the MEA is now planning to either overhaul the existing MADAD consular portal or launch a dedicated platform for Indians travelling overseas for education and employment.

The registration drive is focused on countries hosting large Indian student populations, including the United States, Canada, Germany, China and Malaysia, along with emerging destinations for affordable medical education such as Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

Officials said a detailed database would help Indian missions coordinate rescue and evacuation efforts more effectively during conflicts or emergencies. It would also assist embassies in addressing issues commonly faced by students abroad, including visa documentation, local laws, cultural adaptation and legal troubles.

In Georgia, where nearly 23,000 Indians — mostly medical students — are estimated to reside, the Indian embassy has intensified outreach efforts. India’s Ambassador to Georgia, Amit Mishra, said the mission has been conducting meetings with universities and student groups to encourage registrations and spread awareness.

According to official sources, voluntary registration numbers remain low despite repeated advisories from Indian missions. During recent crises in Iran, Israel and Canada, embassies had specifically urged Indian nationals, including students, to register so authorities could maintain contact and provide support during emergencies.