Academic Freedom Index Report

The Academic Freedom Index report evaluates the state of academic freedom in 179 countries by analyzing five indicators: freedom to teach and research, academic exchange and dissemination, university autonomy, campus integrity, and academic and cultural expression. The report is based on assessments from over 2,197 experts from around the world. According to the report released on February 2, 2023, India scored 0.38 on a scale of 0 (low) to 1 (high), which is lower than Pakistan’s score of 0.43 and the United States’ score of 0.79. India’s poor performance in the report raises questions about the state of academic freedom in the country.

Freedom to Teach and Research

India performed slightly well in the freedom to teach and research indicator, with a score of 0.53. This indicates that there is some level of freedom for teachers and researchers in India to teach and research without undue interference from the government or other external sources. However, there is still room for improvement in this area, particularly in terms of the protection of academic freedom for teachers and researchers.

Academic Exchange and Dissemination

India also performed relatively well in the academic exchange and dissemination indicator, with a score of 0.60. This indicates that there is some level of freedom for scholars to engage in academic exchange and to disseminate their research without interference from the government or other external sources. However, there is still room for improvement in this area, particularly in terms of the protection of academic freedom for scholars engaged in international academic exchange.

University Autonomy

India performed poorly in the university autonomy indicator, with a score of 0.27. This indicates that there is little autonomy for universities in India to govern themselves and to make decisions without undue interference from the government or other external sources. This lack of autonomy can lead to a lack of academic freedom for teachers, researchers and students.

Campus Integrity

India performed poorly in the campus integrity indicator, with a score of 0.28. This indicates that there is little protection for the safety and security of students, teachers and researchers on university campuses in India. This lack of protection can lead to a lack of academic freedom, as individuals may not feel safe or comfortable expressing their views or engaging in academic activities.

Academic and Cultural Expression

India performed poorly in the academic and cultural expression indicator, with a score of 0.20. This indicates that there is little protection for the expression of academic and cultural views in India, particularly in relation to controversial or sensitive topics. This lack of protection can lead to a lack of academic freedom, as individuals may feel inhibited from expressing their views or engaging in academic activities.