The Indian government has revealed that over 13 lakh Indian students are currently pursuing higher studies abroad in 2024. Minister of State for External Affairs – Kirti Vardhan Singh shared this data in a written response in Rajya Sabha, providing country-wise details of Indian students studying in 108 countries.
According to the data, 13,35,878 Indian students are studying abroad in 2024, a significant increase from 13,18,955 in 2023 and 9,07,404 in 2022. The top destinations for Indian students are Canada (4,27,000), the US (3,37,630) and Australia. In the current year, of the 1,33,5878 Indian students 4,27000 were studying in Canada and 3,37,630 students in the US, 8580 in China, eight in Greece, 900 in Israel, 14 in Pakistan and 2510 in Ukraine.
The government collects data on Indian students abroad through voluntary registrations with Indian Missions/Posts and the Global Pravasi Rishta Portal. Indian Missions/Posts also coordinate with host governments to secure data on Indian students. They organise ‘Welcome Ceremonies’ for Indian students who travel abroad for the first time and brief them on security issues in the host countries.
In addition, the government is making efforts to increase the number of countries providing visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival facilities to Indians, making it easier for them to travel worldwide.
This highlights the growing trend of Indian students pursuing higher education abroad, with a significant increase in numbers over the past few years. The government’s efforts to engage with Indian students abroad and facilitate their travel are also noteworthy.
