The enrolment of 72,218 international learners from nearly 200 nations in Indian universities and colleges indicates India's popularity among international learners. In addition, this shows the increase in trust several nations and regions have placed in Indian education systems. To continue to enhance this quality, INR 6,198.99 crores was allocated by the Government of India through the World Class Institutions (WCI) scheme to eight premier public institutions. This funding will be utilised to enhance campus facilities, create additional research infrastructure, recruit quality educators to teach at these institutions and enhance the global competitiveness of Indian higher education.
More International Students Choosing India
Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar told the Rajya Sabha that thousands of foreign students are studying in India in courses like engineering, medicine, management, arts, and science. Indian campuses are more vibrant and diverse because these students come from almost 200 different countries.
He added that the government is working to improve connections with other countries, upgrade university facilities, and make Indian universities more friendly and supportive for international students. Because of these efforts, more foreign students are choosing to study in India.
Major Funding Boost for IoE Universities Under WCI Scheme
Majumdar also explained that under the World Class Institutions scheme, the government plans to develop 10 public and 10 private universities into top-level Institutes of Eminence (IoEs). So far, 12 institutes have received this special status - 8 public and 4 private.
He added that only public institutions get financial support under this scheme. Until now, the government has approved INR 6,198.99 crore to help these institutes grow. The money will be used to upgrade campuses, build better research labs, hire highly qualified teachers, and make these universities capable of competing with the best in the world.
Indian Institutes Perform Better in International Rankings
The minister also shared an important achievement: 54 Indian colleges and universities have been ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2026, compared to only 11 in 2014 - 15. This is a big step forward for India in global education.
According to him, the primary cause for this progress is the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The policy emphasises improving the quality of educational and other related Infrastructure; enhancing research activities; and creating strong connections between universities and industries, thereby resulting in recognition of Indian Institutions on a global level.
India Moves Toward Becoming a Global Education Leader
India is becoming an important choice for students from around the world. The number of international students coming to India is rising, and the government is also giving strong financial support to improve higher education. With ongoing education reforms, better teaching standards, and higher global rankings, India is steadily growing into a major global education hub.
