Indian workers in Israel eligible for medical insurance, government tells Rajya Sabha

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said that “around 32,000” Indian workers are present in Israel, and they are eligible for “medical insurance” as per the Israeli system.

Twelve thousand Indian workers travelled to Israel after the beginning of the conflict between Hamas and Israel on October 7, 2023, the government has informed the Rajya Sabha.

In response to a question from P.P. Suneer of the Communist Party of India, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed that the total number of Indian workers in Israel at the moment is “around 32,000” and they are eligible for “medical insurance” as per the Israeli system.

“As per the Framework Agreement and Implementation Protocols signed with Israel, Indian workers shall enjoy equal treatment with respect to labour rights as Israeli citizens and shall be provided with proper lodging, medical insurance, and relevant social security coverage,” said Mr. Singh in a written answer indicating that the number of Indian workers in Israel increased during the conflict.

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The Minister informed that the workers reached Israel using both government to government routes and private channels.

The Rajya Sabha was informed that two Indian nationals have died during the ongoing conflict. One was killed in a rocket fire from Lebanon in March and another Indian died in Gaza in May 2024. That apart, three Indians were injured in the ongoing violence.

“The government accords highest priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indian nationals, abroad, including Indian workers,” said Mr. Singh.

Published - November 29, 2024 01:36 am IST