Security of Indians abroad top priority: PM

Against the backdrop of attacks on Indians in Australia, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday said the security of Indian students and workers abroad is a top priority of the government.

"The security of our overseas workers and students is a top priority of my government," he said while inaugurating the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in New Delhi.

He did not elaborate on the issue of the attacks but the comment assumes significance as it came against the backdrop of unabated assaults on Indians in Australia, with the latest leading to death of 21-year-old Nitin Garg.

India has been concerned over the repeated attacks, suspectedly racist in nature, and has been pressing Australia to take urgent action to secure its citizens studying or working there.

In a strong statement on Thursday, the Union external affairs ministry said Australian government must 'take remedial measures to ensure there are no further incidents of this nature.'

The MEA said, ".....It is a matter of concern that in spite of serious and concerted efforts by the Australian government to deal with this issue to address our concerns, these attacks are continuing, and have even resulted in fatalities."

India has also issued a travel advisory asking those intending to go to Australia for studies or anything else to take precautions.