Prime Minister Manmohan Singh [Images], who was briefed about developments in the kidnapping of Border Roads Organisation driver Maniappan R Kutty by the Talibans in Afghanistan along with three others, has directed all efforts to ensure his safe return.

He also ordered that authorities must ensure the safety of the 290 Indian nationals working on various projects in Afghanistan.

"The cabinet secretary has set up a group comprising officials from ministries of home, external affairs and security agencies to monitor developments in this regard on regular basis," MEA spokesman Navtej Sarna told newsmen on Monday at a press conference.

The incident took place on November 19 in the afternoon and a man calling on behalf of Talibans claimed responsibility.

"The Government of India has noted with deep concern the kidnapping of one of its nationals from Gurguri to Minar in Nimroze province where the BRO is undertaking a road construction project from Zaranj to Delaram," he said.

The Indian Embassy in Kabul has been in touch with the Afghan authorities to seek their assistance.