Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently urged Indian universities to transform the higher education system to match global benchmarks. Speaking at the Vice Chancellors’ Conclave in New Delhi on March 5, 2026, he emphasized modernizing curricula with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and machine learning. Goyal highlighted the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a key driver for this change. Drafted after gathering nearly three lakh suggestions from across India and abroad, NEP 2020 promotes international campuses, dual degrees, and student exchanges. It aims to raise the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to 50% by 2035 and 60% by 2047, building capacity for global learners.
He stressed attracting students from developed nations to reverse the trend where about 28 Indian students study abroad for every foreign student in India. Goyal noted India’s confidence on the world stage, contributing nearly 20% to global economic growth. Treating education as a service export could boost foreign exchange while enhancing quality and affordability.
Universities must adopt innovative methods like online courses and international collaborations to compete globally. This vision aligns with Viksit Bharat by 2047, positioning India as an education hub.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What did Piyush Goyal say at the Vice Chancellors’ Conclave?
He called for modernizing curricula with AI, quantum computing, and machine learning to meet global standards and attract international students.
2. How does NEP 2020 support higher education reforms?
NEP 2020 enables foreign campuses, dual degrees, and student mobility after incorporating three lakh public inputs for international quality.
3. Why focus on international students in India?
To reverse the outflow of Indian students abroad (28:1 ratio) and earn foreign exchange by making education a competitive export service.
4. What is India’s goal for higher education enrolment?
Raise Gross Enrolment Ratio to 50% by 2035 and 60% by 2047 through expanded institutions and global collaborations.