202 Indians Recruited into Russian Army Since 2022; 26 Dead, 7 Missing: Centre Tells Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – The Union Government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that a total of 202 Indian nationals have been recruited into the Russian armed forces since 2022. The disclosure highlights the ongoing diplomatic challenges regarding Indians caught in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, many of whom were allegedly forced or illegally recruited.

Current Status and Casualties

According to Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, the recruitment has resulted in several casualties and missing persons. Based on information shared by Russian authorities, the government confirmed:

• Fatalities: 26 Indian nationals have lost their lives in the conflict.
• Missing: 7 individuals are currently reported missing.
• Awaiting Release: 50 individuals are still waiting to be discharged from the Russian Army.

The Minister emphasized that concerted diplomatic efforts have already led to the early discharge of 119 Indian nationals.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Russia are actively engaged with Russian authorities to ensure the safety and return of those remaining. Support provided includes:

• Logistics: Assisting discharged nationals with travel documents, air tickets, and return support.
• Identification: DNA samples from family members of 18 Indians (dead or missing) have been shared with Russia to help establish identities.
• Mortal Remains: Out of the deceased, the remains of 10 individuals have been repatriated to India, while two were cremated locally in Russia following consent-based decisions from their families.

The disclosure came in response to inquiries from MPs Saket Gokhale (Trinamool Congress) and Randeep Singh Surjewala (Congress). The government assured Parliament that the issue has been raised at multiple diplomatic levels, including direct interactions between senior leaders and officials of both countries.

“Efforts will continue until all remaining Indians are discharged and brought home safely,” the Minister stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens abroad.