BISHKEK: At least 51 Indian nationals recruited into the Russian Army have died during the war in Ukraine.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri gave the figures during a media briefing in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
He said India has information on 227 Indian nationals who were recruited into the Russian armed forces.
Of these, 139 have been discharged from the Russian military.
However, 51 others have died.
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Around Two Dozen Indians Still Serving
Misri said India is continuing talks with Russia over the remaining cases.
Earlier, Indian officials said around two dozen Indian nationals were still serving with the Russian Army.
New Delhi is seeking their release and return to India.
The Indian Embassy in Moscow is also monitoring the cases.
India Seeks Repatriation of Remaining Citizens
Misri said India has raised the issue with Russia at several levels.
The two countries have discussed the recruitment of Indian citizens on multiple occasions.
India wants Russia to discharge the remaining Indians as soon as possible.
The government also wants to bring them back to their families.
Some Indians recruited by Russian military units reportedly worked in support roles, including as cooks and helpers.
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Indians Recruited Amid Ukraine War
Reports have linked the recruitment of Indian nationals to job offers in Russia.
Some Indian citizens reportedly travelled to Russia after receiving promises of employment.
India previously uncovered a network that allegedly lured young people to Russia with job offers before they became involved with the Russian military.
The issue has since become a concern for Indian authorities and families.
Supreme Court Case
The recruitment of Indians into the Russian military has also reached India’s Supreme Court.
Families of some Indian nationals have sought government help to bring their relatives home.
The court has heard petitions involving Indians who allegedly joined Russian forces during the Ukraine war.
The Indian government has also provided updates on its efforts to secure the release and repatriation of its citizens.
Modi Calls for End to Ukraine War
The latest figures came as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Bishkek.
During their meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, Modi called for an end to the war in Ukraine.
He said the world should move from continued conflict toward peace.
The issue of Indian citizens serving in the Russian military remains part of the wider diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Moscow.
India continues to seek the release of those still serving and the return of those who have been discharged.
