Study Abroad: Indian Students Pursuing Higher Education in China Reach 10,000 Mark; Ministry of External Affairs Informs Rajya Sabha

In a recent update presented to the Rajya Sabha, V Muraleedharan, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, disclosed that approximately 10,000 Indian students are presently engaged in higher education pursuits across various universities in China. 

The revelation came during a response session to inquiries, shedding light on the status of Indian students studying abroad.

Notably, Minister Muraleedharan acknowledged the challenges in acquiring precise figures regarding Indian students in China. Additionally, attributed the difficulty to the students’ lack of registration with Indian Missions. However, despite the persistent efforts made to encourage registration, the majority of students have refrained from doing so.

The disclosure was made in response to a question raised by Tiruchi Siva regarding the Government of India’s efforts. This includes maintaining a comprehensive database of Indian students studying in foreign universities, with a particular focus on those enrolled in medical courses within China.

Statistics of Indian Students Studying Abroad

The minister also shared vital statistics related to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on Indian students in China. A staggering 14,000 students returned to India from the East Asian nation during the pandemic.

Also, a proactive approach taken by Indian authorities, Minister Muraleedharan highlighted a multi-faceted strategy with Indian Embassy in Beijing. 

Moreover, this encompassed emergency evacuations from severely affected regions. This includes the establishment of a 24X7 Control Room and dedicated hotlines for student assistance. Additionally, active coordination with governmental departments and Chinese universities.

However, the primary aim of these endeavours was to ensure the timely return of students and minimize disruptions to their academic trajectories.

Provisions Implemented for Indian Students Studying Abroad

To support mechanisms for Indian students abroad, the minister highlighted the provisions made by the National Medical Commission (NMC). 

1. Indian students in the final year of their MBBS courses are compelled to leave foreign medical institutions due to many factors. This includes the COVID-19 pandemic and regional conflicts (like the Russia-Ukraine conflict), which were granted permission. 
2. Those who had received a certificate of course completion from their respective institutions on or before June 30 are eligible to appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).
3. Muraleedharan emphasized that successful FMGE candidates would be required to complete a Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) lasting two years.
4. This initiative aims to compensate for the clinical training that may have been missed during their undergraduate studies.
5. As well as to familiarize graduates with medical practices under Indian conditions.

The minister’s detailed responses shed light on the complex landscape faced by Indian students in foreign lands.

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