India and US Strengthen Education Ties to Enhance Education and Economy

India and the United States have agreed to strengthen their higher education institutions, promote student mobility, and investigate possibilities for establishing offshore campuses of top US universities in India.

President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of enhancing people-to-people connections between India and the United States. The discussion occurred during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the US, with significant commitments outlined in a joint statement released by the two leaders.  Both leaders acknowledged that the movement of students, researchers, and professionals has been advantageous for both countries, promoting knowledge sharing and economic development.

They observed that over 300,000 Indian students contribute over $8 billion each year to the US economy, creating a considerable amount of direct and indirect employment opportunities.

India called on the US to take advantage of current reforms in its education system and establish international campuses of prominent American universities.

The two countries also talked about initiatives like joint and dual degree programs, twinning agreements, and creating joint Centres of Excellence to enhance academic collaboration.

Furthermore, both countries agreed to simplify legal channels for student and professional movement, enhance short-term business and tourist travel, and tackle issues associated with illegal immigration and human trafficking.