Russia Emerges as Primary Source of Exploitation Complaints from Indian Students Globally
Recent data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has unveiled a troubling trend, indicating that more than half of all complaints regarding exploitation and racial discrimination filed by Indian students worldwide originate from Russia. This revelation comes in the wake of a knife attack in Russia that injured four Indian students, highlighting the significant challenges they face in the country.
Alarming Statistics from MEA Reports
According to the comprehensive MEA data, Indian students across 196 countries registered approximately 350 complaints of exploitation, harassment, and racial discrimination in the year 2025. Strikingly, over 200 of these complaints were reported from Russia alone, with Moscow identified as the most significant hotspot for such incidents.
The data underscores a sharp and concerning increase in complaints over the past three years. In 2023, there were 68 reported cases, which rose to 78 in 2024, before surging dramatically to 201 in 2025. This steep rise has triggered serious safety concerns among students and authorities alike.
Profile of Indian Students in Russia
The majority of Indian medical students in Russia hail from states including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Russia has long been a popular destination for Indian students, particularly those pursuing medical education, due to its relatively lower tuition fees and more accessible admission processes compared to other countries.
However, the escalating number of complaints is casting a shadow over this educational pathway. Students interviewed by TOI reported routine discrimination from peers of other nationalities, with some alleging mental harassment by universities themselves. Threats of expulsion over minor issues or violations are common, creating an atmosphere of fear.
Underreporting Due to Fear of Retaliation
Many grievances never reach official channels because students fear retaliation from universities or complications with visas and immigration status. Kanishka K, a graduate from Bashkir State Medical University (BSMU) in Moscow, shared a harrowing account: "During my sixth year, a group of foreign students attacked Indian students in the hostel kitchen over a minor argument and threatened them with a knife." He emphasized that numerous such incidents go unreported as students are scared of being targeted or expelled.
Institutional Failures and Racial Profiling
Members of Foreign Medical Graduates (FMG) associations have acknowledged widespread racial profiling, verbal abuse, and a lack of institutional support for Indian students in Russia. D Kaushal, coordinator of All FMGs, stated, "Complaints are rarely taken seriously. Students suffer in silence as universities often sideline them."
Kaushal further alleged that while Russian regulations cap foreign student intake at around 200 per institution, some universities admit over 1,200 students and later expel them, sometimes even in the sixth year, violating norms. Such expulsions leave students in severe financial and psychological distress, exacerbating their vulnerabilities.
Shift in Student Preferences and Declining Interest
Due to the deteriorating situation, many Indian students are now opting for alternative destinations like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Manoj Kumar, president of the FMGs Association of India, noted, "The number of Indian students choosing Russia has declined significantly, by at least 50%, in recent years due to these issues." He added that since the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022, Indian students have shown declining interest in pursuing MBBS in Russia because of safety concerns and academic uncertainty.
Government Response and Student Welfare Initiatives
In response to these challenges, the Indian government has taken steps to address the welfare of students abroad. Replying to a recent Lok Sabha query on Indian workers and students facing exploitation, detention, wage denial, and racial discrimination overseas, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh announced that dedicated officers have been posted in Indian missions and posts overseas to handle education and student welfare-related matters.
Our missions maintain regular contact with Indian students enrolled in universities abroad, briefing them on potential challenges and threats they may confront during their stay in foreign lands. Heads of missions and other senior embassy officers also visit foreign universities and educational institutions in their respective countries of accreditation to regularly interact with Indian students and Indian students' associations, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.
This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and provide a support system for Indian students navigating complex international educational landscapes, particularly in high-risk areas like Russia.
