India to host 15 foreign university campuses to boost global education access

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has announced that 15 foreign universities are set to establish campuses across India, including in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The move is designed to enhance global exposure for Indian students and curb the large expenditure incurred on overseas education.

Although India currently has more than 1,200 universities and 50,000 colleges, only a small percentage of the country’s 4 crore higher education students pursue studies abroad. Pradhan highlighted that the initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to expand international collaborations and strengthen domestic research capabilities.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has already approved campuses for five foreign institutions, with over 50 additional applications under review.

"In the field of innovation, India has reached the 39th position from the 81st position. Our startup ecosystem is flourishing. All this success is due to India's better education system," the minister stated. "Our higher education will not be limited just to the degrees."

Pradhan further noted that in the initial year of the Modi government’s third term, considerable advancements have been made in the education sector, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, inclusivity, and modernization.

"Education has always been a key pillar and major attraction for India's youth," he said.

He also stressed the importance of integrating modern educational practices with traditional values under the guidance of NEP 2020.

"The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has emerged as a visionary framework, shaping the future of learning in the country. With nearly 30 crore students between the ages of 5 and 23, India's education reforms hold immense significance. The NEP aims to blend traditional values with futuristic goals, with technology at its core," Pradhan explained.

"Encouragingly, its impact is now showing positive results. The National Education Policy (NEP) is effectively balancing tradition and innovation, nurturing strong roots while preparing students for the future," he added.