Education in India
Education in India encompasses a vast and complex landscape characterized by its diverse structures, evolving policies, and ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing accessibility and quality. Governed by both central and state authorities, the education system follows a structured pathway, traditionally adhering to a "10+2" format, which is currently being restructured into a more developmentally aligned "5+3+3+4" model under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This recent policy shift marks a significant movement towards integrating vocational training and skill development, promoting lifelong learning, and ensuring that education meets the demands of the 21st-century workforce. With over 1.5 million schools serving approximately 260 million students, the system strives for inclusivity while grappling with challenges such as high student-teacher ratios and varying educational standards across urban and rural areas. The importance of online education in India is gaining traction, particularly in response to challenges faced due to the pandemic. Many institutions have adopted hybrid models, merging online and in-person learning to create flexible educational experiences. Furthermore, the ranking of Indian universities continues to evolve, with a focus on improving global standing, thus attracting both domestic and international students. Recent initiatives underscore a commitment to not only enhancing education quality but also addressing disparities in access and outcomes, making education a vital component for India's socio-economic growth. As the nation navigates these transformative changes, the future of education in India is poised to fulfill the aspirations of a diverse population, preparing students for an interconnected world.
Why is there a decline in Indian students studying abroad in traditional destinations like the US, UK, and Canada?
The decline is caused by multiple factors, including diplomatic tensions, stricter visa policies, and rising costs. Canada saw the steepest drop (41%) following diplomatic fallout when Canada's PM accused India regarding Hardeep Singh Ninjal, leading to tightened visa regulations. The US (13% decline) faces challenges from Trump's rigid student visa policies, while the UK (27% drop) implemented stricter rules limiting family accompaniment and post-study work options. Additionally, the rupee's depreciation against the dollar (from ₹82 to ₹87.34) has significantly increased education costs abroad, pushing students toward alternatives like Russia, Germany, and Uzbekistan, which offer more affordable tuition and easier visa processes.
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Business Standard
00:10 - 02:46
How has Nepal's Prime Minister responded to the situation involving Nepalese students at KIIT after the student's death?
Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli took direct action by posting on social media platform X that his government had dispatched two officers to counsel the affected Nepalese students at KIIT in India. These officials were tasked with providing support and presenting students with options regarding their immediate safety and well-being. The Prime Minister ensured arrangements were made to give students choices between remaining in their hostel accommodations or returning to Nepal. This response demonstrates Nepal's diplomatic intervention in the aftermath of protests that erupted following the controversial death of a Nepalese student at the institution.
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WION
01:41 - 01:52
Why are Nepalese students hesitant to return to Kalinga Institute of Technology?
Nepalese students suspended from the Kalinga Institute of Technology in India's Odisha state are expressing fear about returning to campus despite receiving apologies from institute officials. Their hesitation stems from recent demonstrations that occurred at the institution, which appear to have created an environment where these students no longer feel safe or comfortable. Although KIIT officials have issued formal apologies and explicitly invited the students to return to campus, these assurances have not been sufficient to overcome the students' concerns. The situation highlights the serious impact campus unrest can have on international students' sense of security and trust in educational institutions.
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WION
01:19 - 01:34
What led to the protests at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, India?
The protests erupted following the suicide of a female Nepali student who was found dead in her women's hostel room on February 15th. Students, primarily of Nepalese origin, took to the streets claiming that the university authorities failed to act against an alleged harasser despite previous complaints being filed. The situation escalated when police arrested a student in connection with the suicide, along with two university security guards. The protesters accused the university of negligence in addressing harassment complaints, which they believe ultimately led to the tragic death of their fellow student.
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WION
00:00 - 00:29
What measures has Nepal's Prime Minister taken to safeguard Nepali students in India following the incident at Kalinga Institute?
Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has taken several actions to protect Nepali students in India. The Nepal Embassy in New Delhi dispatched two officers to counsel students affected by the incident. Additionally, arrangements were made to give students options to either remain in their hostels or return home to Nepal if they felt unsafe. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has also assured that Nepali students form an important part of people-to-people links between the nations. The Nepalese government has committed to continue taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their students studying in India, recognizing their importance to bilateral relations.
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WION
02:51 - 03:23
What sparked the protests at the university and in Kathmandu?
The protests were triggered by the tragic death of a Nepali female student who was allegedly being harassed by a male student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, India. On February 15, primarily Nepalese students demonstrated against what they claimed was inaction by university authorities against the alleged harasser. An FIR was filed based on the complaint from the deceased girl's cousin, stating she had been subjected to harassment. The incident not only led to campus protests but also sparked massive demonstrations in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, as students demanded accountability and better safety measures from the institution.
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WION
00:23 - 00:51