Odisha Government Assesses Safety of Odias in Middle East Amid Ongoing Conflict
Synopsis
In a crucial meeting led by Chief Secretary Anu Garg, the Odisha government evaluates the safety of Odias in the Middle East. With ongoing regional conflicts, measures are being taken to ensure their well-being.
Key Takeaways
Meeting led by Chief Secretary Anu Garg to evaluate Odia safety in the Middle East.
A working group formed to monitor Odia migrant workers and tourists.
Pritish Panda appointed as the coordinator for the Odia Diaspora .
24/7 helpline established by the Ministry of External Affairs .
Officials are on high alert to respond to the evolving situation.
Bhubaneswar, March 2 (NationPress) A significant meeting led by Chief Secretary Anu Garg took place on Monday evening to assess the safety and circumstances of Odias living in the Middle East and West Asia amidst the ongoing regional conflict.
As per an official announcement, the Odisha government has established a working group in collaboration with the Odisha Parivar Directorate, the Home Department of Odisha, the State Labour Directorate, and the office of the Protector of Emigrants (POE) under the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. This group aims to closely monitor the welfare and status of Odia migrant workers, professionals, and tourists in the Gulf countries.
Pritish Panda, Officer on Special Duty (Mob: +91 9583321964), from the Directorate of Odisha Paribar, Odia Language Literature and Culture Department, has been appointed as the primary contact for coordination with the Odia Diaspora.
It's important to note that the Ministry of External Affairs has set up a 24/7 toll-free helpline (800-46342) and a WhatsApp contact (+971 543090571) to assist Indian citizens in the impacted regions.
During the vital meeting held on Monday, the Chief Secretary instructed all relevant officials to diligently monitor the evolving situation and be fully prepared to implement necessary measures as required.
This meeting was convened following the directive of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to ensure readiness and to initiate essential actions.
Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania, who participated in the meeting, mentioned that the situation is being closely observed, and appropriate actions are being taken. All relevant officials are on high alert. He further stated that the situation remains manageable, with social media posts being monitored closely and immediate actions taken as necessary.
Notably, CM Majhi had previously engaged with the Central Government to facilitate the safe return of Odias stranded in Dubai and other conflict-affected nations.
In light of the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict, Leader of Opposition (LoP) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik also urged the Union government on Monday to take swift action to ensure the safe evacuation of migrant workers, professionals, students, and tourists from Odisha currently stranded in Gulf nations.
Point of View
Ensuring the welfare of its citizens abroad during turbulent times. The coordinated efforts highlight the importance of vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding the interests of Odia expatriates.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the recent meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg?
The meeting aimed to review the safety and conditions of Odias residing in the Middle East amid ongoing conflicts.
Who has been appointed to coordinate with the Odia Diaspora?
Pritish Panda, Officer on Special Duty, is the designated coordinator for the Odia Diaspora.
What support is provided by the Ministry of External Affairs?
The Ministry has established a 24/7 toll-free helpline and a WhatsApp number for assistance to Indian nationals in the affected regions.
What actions are being taken to ensure the safety of Odias?
Officials are closely monitoring the situation, with immediate actions taken as necessary to ensure safety.
What has the Leader of Opposition urged the Union government to do?
Naveen Patnaik urged the Union government to take immediate steps for the safe evacuation of stranded Odias in Gulf nations.
