Nearly one crore Indians face dire straits in Gulf countries as conflicts rage, according to Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh. Speaking exclusively, he detailed assisting six Patiala locals who pleaded for help after funds ran dry.
“They called me directly—money gone, bills unpaid. I had a friend settle their hotel expenses promptly,” Singh shared. Efforts to repatriate them are in full swing, with the Chief Minister engaging central leaders directly.
“Delhi knew the risks in advance; they should’ve evacuated everyone. Now, international diplomacy must de-escalate the war while rescue ops ramp up,” he demanded.
Reflecting on Nancy Grewal’s untimely death in Canada, the minister said, “Such tragedies shatter families. Sending kids abroad only to get their remains is unbearable grief.”
Turning to state progress, Punjab eyes medical education boom. New colleges in Hoshiarpur, Shaheed Udham Singh, Phagwara and beyond will operate as pure government entities with 60-40 funding split. “We’ve ironed out old hurdles; expansion starts now.”
This multi-faceted crisis highlights the urgent need for coordinated national action to safeguard expatriates.