Bhubaneswar, Dec 17: An Odia youth from Jagatsinghpur district, who had been missing in conflict‑hit Sudan, has safely returned to India, bringing immense relief to his family and the Odisha government.

Adarsh Behera, a resident of Kotakana village under Tirtol police limits, had been working in Sudan since 2022. He was reported missing from El Fasher city in North Darfur State, an area severely affected by ongoing violence.

Following reports of his disappearance, the Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep concern and directed senior officials to immediately coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Acting on the state government’s request, the MEA initiated efforts to trace Adarsh with the help of international interlocutors and the Indian Embassy in Sudan.

Also read: Odia Man, Trapped in Sudan, Shares Painful Ordeal after Reaching Bhubaneswar

After days of uncertainty, Adarsh was successfully rescued and brought back to India. He arrived in Bhubaneswar Wednesday, where officials welcomed him at the airport. The Odisha government has been in constant touch with his family and is providing all necessary support.

Chief Minister Majhi expressed happiness over Adarsh’s safe return and extended his gratitude to the central government, particularly the Ministry of External Affairs, for their swift intervention. The Resident Commissioner in New Delhi had also written to the MEA, urging close coordination with the Indian Embassy in Sudan to ensure Adarsh’s safety and repatriation.

Adarsh’s family had been deeply distressed after losing contact with him for several days. With no information about his whereabouts, they feared for his safety amid the escalating conflict in Sudan. His return has brought an end to their anxiety.