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In today’s competitive environment, pursuing higher education is like navigating a high-stakes chess game, where every move counts more than ever. While many students choose to study in their home countries, a growing number of them opt for education abroad. This trend is particularly evident in India, where the number of students seeking higher education overseas has surged significantly over the years.The United States, perceived as the land of opportunities, has become the most sought-after destination for many of them. However, behind the glittering facade of opportunities in the US lies a rather disturbing reality—student safety.
While the experience of studying abroad can be transformative, it goes without saying that students need to prioritize their safety and well-being too. The safety of international students, especially those from India, has become a pressing concern following a series of tragic incidents in the United States. Recently, a report shared by the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, in the Lok Sabha highlighted the deaths of Indian students abroad over the past five years due to various causes. According to the report, 633 Indian students have died abroad in this period, with 108 of these fatalities occurring in the US alone.

Alarming cases of Indian student deaths in the ‘Promised Land’: A snapshot of 2024

We are in the 7th month of 2024 and till now, there have been quite a few cases of Indian student deaths in the US already. Here is a look at a few of them.
Boston University Tragedy: Paruchuri Abhijit, a 20-year-old engineering student from Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, was found dead in a car abandoned in a forest area. Abhijit had been missing since March 11, and his murder by unidentified assailants has raised significant concerns.
Arizona Collision: On April 20, 2024, Nivesh Mukka and Goutham Parsi, both 19 and students at Arizona State University, were killed in a head-on collision. The accident highlights the risks associated with road travel and the importance of road safety education.
Ohio Incident: An Indian student in Ohio died under unexplained circumstances, with ongoing investigations. The Indian consulate in New York has assured assistance, including repatriation of the deceased’s remains.
Washington Shooting: Amarnath Ghosh, a PhD student at Washington University, was tragically shot dead, adding to the series of violent incidents affecting Indian students.
Georgia Car Accident: On May 14, 2024, a car accident in Alpharetta, Georgia, claimed the lives of Aryan Joshi, Sriya Avasarala, and Anvi Sharma. The accident underscores the critical need for improved road safety measures.

Ensuring student safety: What should US universities do?

To effectively safeguard Indian students, US universities must implement comprehensive safety measures tailored to their unique needs. This involves enhancing campus security, establishing robust support networks, and more. Additionally, proactive measures such as safety orientation programs and emergency contact systems can empower students to navigate potential risks more confidently.
Campus Security Services: Universities should maintain active campus security services available around the clock. Students should have easy access to security contact numbers, and emergency contact information should be prominently displayed.
Safety Awareness Programmes: Regular safety orientations and workshops can educate students about local laws, emergency procedures, and personal safety practices. Universities should also team up with local authorities, government agencies, or companies to develop safety apps that allow students to quickly alert campus security or local authorities in case of an emergency.
Support Groups: Establish and promote support groups where students from different backgrounds can share their experiences, provide mutual support, and discuss safety strategies.

Staying safe in the US: Safety measures Indian students must stick to

In light of the alarming rise in deaths among Indian students in the US over the past five years and 2024 alone, it is crucial for them to adopt stringent protective measures for their own safety. Here are some steps which will help them navigate the challenges better and ensure their well-being amid increasing safety concerns.
Stay Informed: Save local emergency information, including contact details for police, fire department, ambulance services, campus security, international student services, and the embassy on your phone.
Personal Safety: Avoid traveling alone late at night and use trusted transportation methods. Inform friends about your whereabouts and travel plans so they are aware of your location. Be vigilant about your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places.
Seek Help When Needed: Do not hesitate to seek help if you are involved in an accident, whether major or minor. Use the saved emergency numbers when needed.
Helpline Information: For Indian students studying in the US, here are some important emergency numbers they should keep handy. These contact details include local emergency services, such as police and ambulance, as well as the emergency contact details provided by the Embassy of India in Washington, DC.

The rise in tragic incidents involving Indian students in the US underscores the critical need for comprehensive safety measures and support systems. By staying informed, utilizing available resources, and following essential safety tips, students can better protect themselves and their peers. Educational institutions, consulates, and local authorities must work together to ensure the well-being and security of international students.