Indian Students Should Build Their Future in Own Country

US and UK restrict Indian students' stay, while India aims to develop world-class higher education.

- ALOK MEHTA

After earning billions from Indian students, the U.S. and British governments are now issuing orders for most youths to return home. Since the arrival of President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, new rules and regulations have been imposed, creating tension and difficulties for Indian youths along with other foreigners. Thousands of students and their parents arrange expenses or loans ranging from lakhs to crores (millions), hoping or believing that after completing their studies, they can work abroad for a few years to repay these loans.

In India, employment opportunities for highly educated youth have also increased. Besides Indian companies, many foreign companies are offering jobs. However, initially, these jobs do not pay as much according to the Indian market standards. Similarly, self-employment requires a substantial amount of capital. After completing 11 years in power, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has presented the vision of a self-reliant, developed India 2047 with various achievements and future goals. Alongside becoming the world's fourth-largest economy, India is advancing campaigns in digital revolution, defense production, science and technology, space, health, and medicine toward self-reliance. So, why not give top priority to education as well? After introducing the New Education Policy, why can't we encourage world-class universities like Harvard and Oxford to open branches in India and transform selected Indian universities into centers of excellence?