India’s higher education system is undergoing a major transformation to improve access, quality, and future readiness. The goal is to nearly double the student population by 2035 and create the world’s largest higher education network. This demands a strategic increase in universities, especially in underserved areas.
Expanding Access Through New Universities
India aims for a 50 percent Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education by 2035. Currently, universities are mostly in urban centres due to supply-driven placement. This has left many districts without universities despite having many colleges. There are 81 districts with over 50 colleges but no universities, mainly in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Establishing cluster universities in these districts can decentralise education and improve access.
Regional and State-Level Priorities
Spatial analysis shows large regions with low university presence. These include North-eastern states, eastern Maharashtra and Odisha, parts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and eastern Gujarat. These areas also cover many Aspirational Districts needing focused attention. At the state level, a composite index identifies demand based on population size, youth demographic, enrolment ratios, and university density. Uttar Pradesh tops the list, followed by Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. These states require more universities despite recent growth in numbers.
Strategic Planning for University Creation
Planning new universities requires detailed micro-level studies. Factors include regional demand, socio-economic conditions, accessibility, and potential academic-industry collaborations. Both greenfield (new) and brownfield (expansion) projects must consider these. Evidence-based spatial and statistical analyses guide optimal locations and resource allocation.
Focus Areas for University Development
Four key priorities ensure quality and inclusivity – 1. Specialised curricula to boost skills and employability in emerging sectors. 2. Quality education that nurtures human values, cultural identity, and teacher training. 3. Multidisciplinary campuses with smart infrastructure like digital libraries, research centres, and wellness facilities. 4. Gender-inclusive campuses with accessible hostels and barrier-free facilities for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities).
Shifting to Demand-Driven Planning
India’s higher education expansion is moving from supply-based to demand-driven planning. This shift involves using data-driven insights to ensure efficient, inclusive, and sustainable growth. It supports the vision of a developed India by 2047 with equitable higher education opportunities across all regions.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the challenges and opportunities in increasing Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in India’s higher education system by 2035.
- Critically analyse the role of spatial and statistical data in planning higher education infrastructure in India with suitable examples.
- Estimate the impact of multidisciplinary universities on regional socio-economic development and how they can encourage innovation and employability.
- Underline the importance of inclusive education policies in Indian universities and how they address gender and disability barriers.
