The Government of India has announced an ambitious plan to significantly increase the number of international students studying in the country. Under the “Study in India” initiative, the government aims to raise the annual intake of foreign students in Indian higher-education institutions to 2 lakh (200,000) by the year 2030. The move is part of a broader strategy to position India as a major global education hub.
Currently, India receives around 50,000 foreign students each year, though official figures suggest that over 72,000 international students from nearly 200 countries are already studying in different institutions across the country. Education Ministry officials believe that with the right policies and improved infrastructure, the number of international students can increase substantially in the coming years.
To achieve this goal, the government is strengthening the Study in India programme, which promotes Indian universities and institutions globally. Authorities are working closely with central and state universities to expand capacity, improve facilities, and enhance student support services. Special attention is being given to infrastructure such as hostel facilities, international student offices, and campus support systems to ensure that foreign students have a comfortable learning environment in India.
The plan also involves collaboration with state governments because many international students are expected to enroll in state universities and colleges across India. The issue was recently discussed at the Chief Secretaries’ Conference, highlighting the role of states in promoting India as a global education destination.
Another important step in this direction is allowing foreign universities establishing campuses in India to admit international students as well. The government is currently in discussions with several global institutions from countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia to set up campuses in India, which could further increase the country’s appeal among international learners.
Education experts believe that the initiative could boost India’s global academic reputation and encourage greater international collaboration in research and innovation. If successfully implemented, the policy will not only attract more international students but also strengthen India’s position as an emerging hub for higher education.
Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/education/centre-aims-to-boost-annual-foreign-student-admissions-to-2-lakh-by-2030/
