In the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Indian students studying abroad. It is no secret that studying in a foreign country offers a wide range of opportunities and experiences, providing students with a chance to broaden their horizons and gain a global perspective. However, with this rise in international education, there has also been a corresponding increase in the number of student complaints regarding exploitation and racial discrimination. And surprisingly, a recent report has revealed that over half of these complaints came from Indian students studying in Russia, with Moscow being identified as a hotspot.
The report, released by the Indian Ministry of Education in 2025, sheds light on a disturbing trend that has been observed in recent years. It highlights the challenges faced by Indian students in Russia, ranging from instances of exploitation by universities, to incidences of racial discrimination by locals.
One of the main issues highlighted in the report is the issue of exploitation by universities. Many Indian students have reported being lured into enrolling in Russian universities with promises of high-quality education and job opportunities. However, upon arrival, they have been faced with substandard learning facilities and poor quality education, leaving them feeling cheated and disheartened. Moreover, these universities have been found to charge exorbitant fees, which often put a strain on the students’ finances.
The report also brings attention to the alarming instances of racial discrimination faced by Indian students in Russia. According to the report, incidents of racial slurs, physical and verbal abuse, and even violence have been reported by Indian students living in Moscow. This not only affects the students’ mental and emotional well-being but also creates a hostile environment that hinders their academic performance.
The Ministry of Education has acknowledged these issues and is taking proactive steps to address them. In collaboration with the Russian government, they have set up a task force to investigate the complaints and ensure that the students’ rights are protected. The task force has also been tasked with working towards promoting a more inclusive and welcoming environment for international students in Russia.
Additionally, the Indian government has been working closely with the Russian universities to ensure that they adhere to the standards set by the Ministry of Education. This includes regular inspections and strict measures against institutions found guilty of exploiting international students.
In light of these developments, it is important to remember that the majority of Russian universities do provide quality education and a safe and welcoming environment for international students. However, it is imperative that students do thorough research before deciding on their university and country of study. They should also stay vigilant and reach out to the Indian embassy or the Ministry of Education in case of any issues.
Moreover, the Indian government is also actively promoting other popular international education destinations, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, to provide students with more options and opportunities.
In conclusion, while the number of Indian students studying in Russia has increased, so has the number of complaints of exploitation and racial discrimination. However, with the swift actions taken by the Indian government and the cooperation of the Russian authorities, we hope to see a significant decrease in these incidents in the near future. It is important for students to make informed decisions and for governments to work towards creating a safe and inclusive environment for international students. Let us all work together towards making studying abroad a rewarding and enriching experience for all.
