Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Takes Steps for Safe Return of Odia Citizens Stranded in Middle East

Key Takeaways

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is actively overseeing the return of stranded Odia citizens.

A high-level meeting was convened to strategize assistance efforts.

The Odia Parivar Directorate is the main coordination body for support.

A toll-free helpline has been established for stranded individuals.

Ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs is in place for safe repatriation.

Bhubaneswar, March 11 (NationPress) Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has shown significant concern regarding reports of numerous Odia citizens trapped in the Middle East amidst the ongoing turmoil in the region.

Highlighting the importance of their secure return, the Chief Minister has instructed Chief Secretary Anu Garg to vigilantly oversee the situation and implement necessary measures to ensure their safe passage.

Following the Chief Minister's orders, a high-level meeting took place on March 2, led by the Chief Secretary, to assess the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

During this assembly, Pritish Panda, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at the Odisha Parivar Directorate, was designated as the nodal officer to streamline assistance efforts.

Official reports indicate that the Odisha Parivar Directorate has received approximately 200 calls from Odia individuals currently in the Middle East requesting help. The Directorate is collaborating with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate their safe return.

The MEA has established a dedicated control room and has launched a toll-free helpline, 1800-118-797, to support Indians stranded in the area.

Additionally, the Directorate is in touch with representatives from Odia associations in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain to obtain real-time updates on the status of Odia residents.

Of the 35 Odia tourists previously stuck in Dubai, nine successfully returned to Bhubaneswar via Kochi on March 7.

The remaining 24 tourists arrived in Bhubaneswar on March 8 utilizing a special flight organized by Air India Express.

As per information provided by the MEA, around 65,000 Indian nationals have safely returned to India from the Middle East through specially arranged flights.

Meanwhile, Chief Secretary Garg conducted another review of the situation concerning the stranded Odia citizens in a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhavan.

Point of View

It's crucial to acknowledge the urgency of the situation for Odia citizens in the Middle East. The government’s proactive approach, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, highlights a commitment to citizen welfare amidst international crises. This situation warrants immediate attention and support.

NationPress

2 Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What actions is the Odisha government taking for stranded citizens?

The Odisha government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safe return of stranded Odia citizens in the Middle East.

How can stranded Odia citizens seek assistance?

Stranded Odia citizens can reach out to the Odisha Parivar Directorate, which has received calls for help and is facilitating assistance through the Ministry of External Affairs.

Is there a helpline for stranded Indians?

Yes, the Ministry of External Affairs has set up a toll-free helpline number, 1800-118-797, for Indians stranded in the Middle East.

What recent actions have been taken for stranded tourists?

Recent flights have successfully returned Odia tourists stranded in Dubai, with additional arrangements made for others to come back home.

How many Indian nationals have returned from the Middle East?

Approximately 65,000 Indian nationals have safely returned to India from the Middle East through special flights organized by the government.