Bhubaneswar: In view of the prevailing war-like situation in the Middle East, the Odisha government on Monday convened a high-level meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg to assess the situation and prepare measures to ensure the safety of migrant Odias residing in the region.
The meeting was held as per the instructions of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, with a focus on closely monitoring developments and initiating coordinated action if required.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary advised all concerned departments to remain alert and prepared, while keeping a close watch on the evolving situation. She emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to provide timely assistance and reliable information to Odias staying abroad.
It was highlighted that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, has issued a 24-hour toll-free helpline number (800-4634342) and a WhatsApp number (+971543090571) to assist Indian nationals in the affected regions.
To strengthen the state’s response mechanism, the Odisha government has formed a dedicated working group in coordination with Odisha Mo Paribar, the State Home (Swaraashtra) Department, the State Labour Directorate, and the Protector of Emigrants — an organisation responsible for safeguarding the interests of overseas Indians.
Pritish Panda has been appointed as the Nodal Officer for Odisha Mo Paribar to facilitate information dissemination and assistance. He can be contacted at 9583321964 for support related to Odias in the Middle East.
Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania, who attended the meeting, stated that the situation is being monitored very closely and necessary steps are being taken. He added that all concerned officers have been put on alert and the situation remains under control.
The DGP further informed that social media posts related to the situation are being strictly monitored, and immediate action is being taken wherever necessary to prevent misinformation.
Among others present at the meeting were Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Hemant Sharma; Director of Intelligence R.P. Koche; Director of Odisha Mo Paribar and Secretary, Culture Department, Bijayaketan Upadhyay; Labour Commissioner Indramani Tripathi; and senior officials from various departments.
The state government reiterated that it remains fully prepared to extend all possible support to migrant Odias and their families during the ongoing crisis.
