Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced that nearly 19 international universities are poised to set up campuses in India within the current academic year. The announcement was made during the Study in India Edu Diplomatic Conclave 2026 held in New Delhi.
Highlighting India’s expanding academic footprint, the Union Education Minister noted that Indian institutions are actively partnering with leading global universities across high impact sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, critical minerals, agriculture and sustainable management. These collaborations, he emphasised, are designed to place India at the forefront of innovation driven education.
Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also extended a warm invitation to students worldwide, positioning India as an emerging destination for quality higher education. He reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening academic standards, improving global rankings, and aligning education with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young citizens.
Stressing the demographic advantage, he pointed out that nearly 65 percent of India’s population is under the age of 35, calling it the country’s greatest strength and a catalyst for economic transformation.
Looking beyond national boundaries, the Minister spoke about India’s ambition to build a “knowledge bridge” connecting diverse nations and civilizations. He further indicated that India is working towards developing an inclusive growth model that could serve as a framework for countries of the Global South.
With policy reforms and international partnerships gathering pace, India’s higher education landscape appears set for a transformative chapter.
