In a bid to curb bullying and ragging in schools, the Kerala General Education Department is set to introduce anti-ragging cells across educational institutions in the state. This initiative comes in response to persistent concerns over student safety and well-being in schools.

General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced that senior officials are preparing a proposal to implement anti-ragging cells in every school. This step aims to reinforce the existing disciplinary committees and protection groups to ensure a more structured and effective response to bullying.

“Through disciplinary committees and protection groups already exist in schools across the state, the practices like ragging have yet to be completely rooted out. Therefore, the General Education Department is considering setting up anti-ragging cells in every educational institution in the state,” Sivankutty said.

A committee of senior officials from the General Education Department will be formed to study and propose the structure and functioning of these cells before implementation. The minister added that these anti-ragging cells should also instil a sense of responsibility and respect among students, shaping their approach towards peer interactions in both school and higher education.

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Emphasising the importance of a healthy student-teacher relationship, the minister said that children should feel comfortable sharing their issues with their teachers. He reiterated that open communication between students and educators is essential in addressing concerns and creating a safe and inclusive school environment.

With bullying and ragging remaining a major issue in schools and colleges, Kerala’s initiative could set a progressive precedent for other states. The introduction of anti-ragging cells aims to foster respect, safety, and well-being among students while strengthening institutional support systems.

(With Inputs from PTI)

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi kick-started the 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, an annual initiative aimed at helping students navigate exam stress and academic pressure with confidence. Breaking away from the conventional Town Hall format, the first episode took place at the serene Sunder Nursery in New Delhi on 10th February 2025, bringing together 36 students from across India for a highly interactive session.

The Prime Minister covered essential topics such as Nutrition and Wellness, Mastering Pressure, The Art of Leadership, 360° Growth Beyond Books, and Finding Positives in Challenges. The session encouraged students to adopt a growth mindset and focus on holistic learning rather than just academic success.

A Star-Studded Line-Up to Guide Students Beyond Academics

As part of the revamped edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, the government has roped in eminent personalities from diverse fields—including sports stars, entertainment icons, business leaders, and education experts—to engage with students in a series of insightful episodes. The sessions are designed to equip students with practical strategies, inspire them to take on challenges, and instil confidence ahead of their exams.

With five episodes aired so far, Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 has seen engaging conversations with Sadhguru, Deepika Padukone, Technical Guruji (Gaurav Chaudhary), Radhika Gupta, and leading nutrition experts like Rujuta Diwekar, Shonali Sabherwal, and Revant Himatsingka (Food Pharmer).

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Sadhguru on Overcoming Exam Stress with Mindfulness

In the fifth episode (14th February 2025), Sadhguru engaged students in a free-flowing conversation on the importance of mindfulness in tackling exam-related stress and overcoming life’s challenges.

Sharing his observations, Sadhguru highlighted the increasing number of children suffering from stress-induced health complications due to exam pressure. He emphasised that education is not just about exams, but about gaining access to life itself. He advised students to keep their intelligence in ‘dynamic mode’ and view education as a stepping stone to broader life experiences.

Sadhguru also introduced students to Nada Yoga, demonstrating three basic sounds and encouraging them to practise the technique for seven minutes every morning to improve focus and emotional well-being.

His advice on limiting smartphone usage to maintain concentration and balance in daily life was particularly well received by the students.

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Deepika Padukone on Mental Health and Resilience

In the second episode (12th February 2025), Bollywood star Deepika Padukone interacted with 60 students, sharing her personal journey with mental health. She spoke about the importance of acknowledging mental health challenges and seeking support, emphasising that dealing with these issues can be empowering rather than a sign of weakness.

As a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, Deepika’s insights encouraged students to openly discuss their struggles and adopt positive coping mechanisms.

Technical Guruji and Radhika Gupta on AI & Emerging Technologies

In the third episode (13th February 2025), popular tech influencer Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guruji) and Edelweiss Mutual Fund MD & CEO Radhika Gupta introduced students to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

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The session focused on the real-world applications of AI, including ChatGPT and AI image-generation tools. The speakers encouraged students to embrace AI-driven learning, explore technological advancements, and build future-ready skills.

Nutrition Experts on Exam Diets & Healthy Living

On 14th February 2025, renowned nutritionists Shonali Sabherwal, Rujuta Diwekar, and Revant Himatsingka (Food Pharmer) interacted with students about the critical role of nutrition in staying stress-free and energised during exams.

The session covered:

• The best brain foods for students
• How to maintain energy levels while studying
• The dangers of excessive caffeine and junk food consumption
• Simple diet changes to improve focus and concentration

Students walked away with actionable tips on maintaining a balanced diet during exam season, ensuring their physical and mental well-being.

A Transformative Initiative for Student Well-Being

With Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, the Indian government continues to reinforce the importance of holistic development, stress management, and lifelong learning. By inviting leaders from various fields, the initiative ensures that students receive multi-dimensional guidance—not just on academics, but also on mental health, leadership, technology, and well-being.

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As students gear up for their exams, these insightful sessions serve as a powerful reminder that success is not just about marks—but about resilience, adaptability, and a well-rounded approach to life.

In a heartwarming recognition of dedication and innovation in education, Saudi Arabian teacher Mansour bin Abdullah Al-Mansour has been awarded the prestigious $1 million GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize. Announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, the award celebrates Al-Mansour’s transformative work in empowering students from low-income families, including hundreds of gifted orphans, and his 3,000+ hours of community service.

Al-Mansour, a teacher at Prince Saud bin Jalawi School in Al-Ahsa, has spent over two decades uplifting students facing academic challenges, disabilities, and financial hardships. His efforts include establishing mentorship programmes, innovation incubators, and financial literacy initiatives, enabling students to achieve global recognition. Notably, he plans to use the prize money to build a school for talented orphans, furthering his mission to provide quality education to underprivileged children.

(Image: Mansour Al Mansour- 2025 Global Teacher Prize Winner)

Beyond the classroom, Al-Mansour has authored 21 educational books, trained over 300 educators, and led literacy programmes for prison inmates, helping reduce sentences for some. His work has earned him accolades as an international ambassador for educational excellence.

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The Global Teacher Prize, now in its ninth year, recognises exceptional educators who make a profound impact on their communities. Al-Mansour was selected from over 5,000 nominations across 89 countries, joining a prestigious list of global educators.

Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Global Teacher Prize, praised Al-Mansour’s “passion, dedication, and the life-changing power of education.” Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, highlighted the importance of investing in teachers to build a sustainable future.

As the world faces challenges like inequality and climate change, Al-Mansour’s story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of education and the unsung heroes shaping our future.

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In an exciting initiative for young nature enthusiasts, Early Bird and Ataavi Bird Foundation are set to organise special bird walks for children during the Great Backyard Bird Count 2025. Scheduled for February 15th and 16th, 2025, these walks will take place in eight Indian cities: Bengaluru, Dimapur, Halol, Jaipur, Mangaluru, Ranchi, Trivandrum, and Ujjain.

Designed for children aged 9 to 13 years, the bird walks aim to nurture curiosity about birds and their habitats, providing an engaging introduction to birdwatching. Led by experienced nature educators, the sessions will help children identify different bird species, understand their behaviours, and develop a deeper appreciation for local biodiversity.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is a global citizen science initiative where birdwatchers of all ages observe and document bird species in their surroundings. The data collected contributes to worldwide studies on bird populations and helps scientists track migration patterns and conservation needs. This year, Early Bird is organising dedicated children’s walks as part of this initiative, encouraging young learners to explore nature firsthand.

Early Bird is a learning programme that brings children closer to birds and nature. The programme has impacted more than 3 lakh children throughout its 10-year existence. This is through the distribution of innovative educational materials on Indian birds, available in 10 Indian languages, besides English. Early Bird is a part of the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF), a 28-year-old public charitable trust set up to contribute to the knowledge and conservation of India’s unique wildlife heritage.

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Previous bird walks led by Early Bird’s expert educators have received enthusiastic responses. A parent from the Goa Walk 2024 shared, “Such an unbelievable and mesmerising variety of birds! Thank you for revealing these treasures in our everyday landscape!”

The event will take place at key nature spots in each city, including Avalahalli Lake (Bengaluru), Vadatalav Lake (Halol), Kishan Bagh Sand Dunes Park (Jaipur), and Akkulam Lake (Trivandrum). Partner organisations such as Coastal Karnataka Bird Watchers Network (CKBWN), Eco Warriors, Prakriti, and COCOON will collaborate to ensure an enriching experience for all participants.

Event Details

How to Register

Registrations for the bird walks are now open. Interested participants can sign up at https://bit.ly/8cities8walks. Slots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

This initiative provides a rare opportunity for students to engage with nature, learn about India’s diverse bird species, and contribute to an international conservation effort.

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In a significant development for education in Varanasi, Sunbeam International Varuna has become the first institution in the city to adopt the globally recognised Cambridge curriculum. Known for its emphasis on academic rigour and critical thinking, the curriculum is designed to promote holistic development through a well-rounded educational approach.

The school’s academic achievements have been noteworthy, with students excelling in the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint exams and surpassing international benchmarks. Their involvement in the Cambridge Climate Quest Program highlights their commitment to environmental responsibility and leadership in sustainability initiatives.

Sunbeam International Varuna also places a strong emphasis on sports and extracurricular activities. Student athletes have made notable achievements, including a gold medal at the National Roll Ball Championship and success in Thai Boxing and Roller Skating. The school’s focus on STEAM education is reflected in projects such as IoT-based irrigation systems and robotics innovations, supported by well-equipped labs and modern facilities.

Collaboration with parents and mental wellness initiatives form an integral part of the school’s educational philosophy. Activities such as health workshops, storytelling sessions, and mindfulness programmes contribute to the overall development and well-being of students.

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Dedicated teachers play a crucial role, with achievements in Teachers’ Olympiads and continuous professional development enhancing the learning experience. Community engagement, sustainability programmes, and experiential learning initiatives further enrich students’ educational journeys.

As a member of the Boarding Schools’ Association of India, Sunbeam International Varuna is committed to fostering progressive education, blending academic excellence with life skills and global awareness.

In an effort to address the financial and operational challenges faced by State Public Universities (SPUs), NITI Aayog has proposed significant reforms aimed at improving their sustainability and quality. The recommendations include the establishment of a dedicated finance agency akin to the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA), fee autonomy, and diversified funding sources. These suggestions, outlined in the newly released report titled Expanding Quality Higher Education Through States and State Public Universities, are considered vital to achieving the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

State Public Universities, which cater to over 80% of India’s higher education student population, face numerous challenges stemming from inadequate government grants, dependence on traditional revenue streams, and limited autonomy in financial decision-making. The report highlights the need for a six percent allocation of the country’s GDP to education, a figure previously recommended under the NEP 2020.

One of the central recommendations is to establish a HEFA-style finance agency exclusively for SPUs. HEFA, a joint venture between Canara Bank and the Ministry of Education, has played a crucial role in financing infrastructure development and research projects at educational institutions. NITI Aayog suggests a similar agency could provide long-term financial stability to SPUs, ensuring they have the resources needed to maintain quality education and expand research capacities.

The report further recommends granting SPUs the autonomy to adjust fees by 5-10% annually to account for inflation, with safeguards such as scholarships and fee waivers for underprivileged students. Select SPUs with sound financial management could pilot this programme, which would be closely monitored for its impact on finances, enrolment, and educational quality.

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Diversification of revenue streams is another key focus. The report encourages universities to expand self-financed programmes, provide consultancy services to industries and government agencies, and strengthen alumni engagement to drive financial contributions. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are also seen as crucial to supplement government funding and enhance employability initiatives.

Additionally, NITI Aayog calls for tax exemptions on revenue from CSR grants and research activities to provide further financial relief. These recommendations come at a time when Indian higher education institutions are under increased scrutiny for their financial and academic performance, with recent opposition to changes proposed under the NEP 2020 further intensifying the debate.

With 80 policy recommendations spread across four key thematic areas—quality, funding and financing, governance, and employability—NITI Aayog envisions a transformed higher education system where SPUs emerge as centres of excellence and regional development drivers.

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As India strives to become a developed nation by 2047, investing in education and physical development is paramount. With the world’s largest youth population and a median age of 28, India is poised for a demographic dividend—a period where a large working-age population can significantly boost economic growth. However, failure to adequately educate, upskill, and ensure the well-being of this young population could lead to a crisis of underemployment and social instability, as highlighted by the World Bank and IMF.

A Missed Opportunity Without Education

India’s literacy rate currently stands at 74.5%, trailing the global average. The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 revealed gaps in rural literacy and foundational skills, pointing to a need for immediate intervention. To meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include universal education by 2030, India must increase its education spending from 4.6% to at least 6% of GDP, as recommended by UNESCO.

India’s neighbouring nations have shown varying levels of investment in education, with some surpassing UNESCO’s recommended target of 4-6% of GDP. Bhutan leads the region by allocating 7.5% of its GDP to education, reflecting its strong commitment to human development. Nepal follows closely with 6%, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring steady progress in literacy and quality education. In contrast, Pakistan significantly lags behind, investing only around 2% of its GDP in education, contributing to persistent challenges in literacy and educational access. India, currently allocating 4.6% of its GDP to education needs increased investment to bridge educational gaps and fully leverage its demographic advantage.

Experts argue that increasing funding for both formal education and vocational training is essential. According to the IMF, inadequate investment in education and health could result in India squandering its demographic dividend. By bridging the gap between current spending and SDG targets, India can provide access to quality education and skill-building initiatives, thereby empowering youth with future-ready skills.

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Beyond Academics: The Case for Physical Education

Parallel to academic learning, physical education is vital in ensuring holistic development. According to a 2024 UNESCO report, more than two-thirds of secondary school students worldwide do not receive the minimum recommended hours of physical education. India is no exception, and the limited emphasis on physical education could hinder long-term benefits, including improved mental health, academic performance, and productivity.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stresses, “Physical education not only improves pupils’ health but also their academic performance and personal development. It should be treated as a core subject, not an extracurricular activity.”

UNESCO’s recommendations highlight five critical areas for member states:

1. Improving the training of sports educators.
2. Increasing investment in infrastructure.
3. Developing inclusive physical education programs.
4. Increasing allocated hours for physical education in school curricula.
5. Integrating the values of sport into educational programs.

The benefits are evident: physical education can reduce student obesity rates by 30%, improve exam scores for 40% of students, and prevent anxiety and depression among youth. Schools that prioritise sports also report improved attendance and behaviour. However, India currently allocates less than 2% of its education budget to physical education, significantly below the recommended level.

Investing in Holistic Development

To fully harness its demographic advantage, India must adopt a holistic education policy that integrates physical education into the broader academic framework. The growing focus on sports through initiatives such as Khelo India needs to be complemented by increased funding for grassroots physical education in schools. Audrey Azoulay notes that integrating sports values into education builds empathy, teamwork, and resilience, which are essential for navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Closing the Gap with Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have the potential to bridge funding gaps in both education and physical development. Private sector involvement can also ensure that physical education programs receive sustainable support. Initiatives such as specialised sports training academies and skill-based internships can enhance students’ employability and overall development.

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India’s path to becoming a developed nation hinges on its investment in education and physical development. Allocating at least 6% of GDP to education and prioritising physical education will create a well-rounded workforce capable of driving economic growth. By bridging the gap between policy and practice, India can ensure that its youth are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to the nation’s progress.

The Union Budget 2025-26, announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has brought a mix of optimism and responsibility to India’s education sector. With ₹78,572 crores allocated to the Department of School Education and Literacy—its highest ever—the government has laid down a roadmap for transforming education through strategic investments in technology, skilling, and inclusion.

Major Allocations for Growth and Inclusivity

A key highlight is the announcement of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools to foster innovation and scientific thinking. Alongside this, the budget’s allocation of ₹42,900 crores for Central Sector Schemes will fund initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Innovative Learning Programme (DHRUV) and the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme. These programmes aim to provide scholarships and mentorship to talented students, particularly those from economically weaker sections.

The Samagra Shiksha and PM Poshan schemes have also seen increased allocations, receiving ₹41,250 crores and ₹12,500 crores, respectively. Additionally, ₹1,250 crores have been allocated for the New India Literacy Programme and ₹160 crores for the STARS initiative, both critical to addressing foundational literacy and teacher capacity building.

Strengthening Higher Education and Digital Inclusion

Higher education received ₹50,077.95 crores, with a significant push to expand IIT infrastructure, adding seats for 6,500 students across five IITs. Sitharaman emphasised that this was part of a broader effort to align higher education with global standards and industry demands, a sentiment echoed by several educational leaders.

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Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director of GD Goenka Group, highlighted the importance of this investment: “The budget’s focus on skilling, research, and AI-driven education reflects a commitment to future-ready competencies. Establishing Centres of Excellence for Skilling and expanding AI education will ensure that students across socio-economic backgrounds can contribute to India’s progress. This year’s focus on broadband connectivity in government schools will democratise access to knowledge and innovation.”

Focus on STEM, AI, and Research Innovation

The government’s investment in STEM education, with 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and expanded IIT capacities, was lauded by Mr. Praneet Mungali, Trustee & Secretary, Sanskriti Group Schools. “This investment significantly enhances India’s STEM ecosystem and will foster curiosity and problem-solving abilities in students,” Mr. Mungali said.

The establishment of National Centres of Excellence in AI was another major highlight. Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor of Mahindra University, praised this decision: “These centres, alongside the 10,000 scholarships for technological research, will nurture innovation and position India as a global leader. Expanding IIT infrastructure in Tier-2 cities will further decentralise opportunities and drive tech-based growth across regions.”

Driving Digital and Linguistic Inclusivity

With ₹681 crores allocated for Digital India e-learning, the government aims to bridge the digital divide. Mr. Kanak Gupta, Group Director of MR Jaipuria Group, appreciated this step: “The emphasis on providing digital Indian language books in schools and higher education is critical to ensuring inclusivity. Quality education, accessible in various languages, will provide uniform learning opportunities for all students.”

Mr. Dilip Gangaramani, CEO of Target Learning Ventures, stressed the importance of AI in education, saying: “The establishment of Centres of Excellence in AI will equip educators and students to harness its potential. However, critical thinking must be fostered to help students evaluate AI outputs and identify biases, ensuring well-rounded, responsible digital citizens.”

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A Holistic Approach to Skilling and Research

The budget’s emphasis on skilling through the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence was praised by Ms. Charu Kapoor, Country Director, NIIT Foundation: “This investment will help rural skilling by providing digital training opportunities that were previously limited due to poor internet access. The combination of skill-based training and access to resources will empower youth and contribute meaningfully to India’s global standing.”

Similarly, Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, Co-founder of the Indian School of Hospitality, remarked: “Policy is a work in progress—the test now is in execution. We need a 10X mindset in implementing AI-driven research and deep-tech funding. Universities must lead innovation by aligning their research with national priorities, fostering long-term growth.”

Medical and Technical Education Expansion

On the higher education front, Sitharaman’s announcement of expanding IIT Patna’s infrastructure and increasing medical seats by 10,000 this year shows a continued push to address capacity needs. “This infrastructure expansion demonstrates the government’s commitment to producing world-class professionals,” said Mr. Naman Jain, Vice Chairman of Silverline Prestige School. “The allocation to K-12 education must be effectively utilised to make global standards accessible to students from marginalised communities.”

Bridging the Gap Between Policy and Practice

Several experts underlined that bold policy must be matched with execution. Mr. Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman of Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, stated: “Fifty thousand Atal Tinkering Labs, better broadband in government schools, and AI education reflect a holistic and forward-thinking approach. The focus on technological fellowships and skilling will empower young minds to lead innovation in an interconnected world.”

Mr. Sagar Kaushik, Associate Director at Propelld, added: “Removing TCS for education remittances and improving accessibility to digital and medical education will help parents plan better for their children’s future. This budget addresses both immediate and long-term challenges, laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth.”

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Therefore, it can easily be said that the Union Budget 2025-26 has set the stage for a transformative phase in India’s education sector. From investments in AI and STEM to skilling and digital inclusion, the focus is clear: building an education system that nurtures innovation and positions India as a global knowledge hub. However, experts stress that its success will depend on effective execution, ensuring that the investments translate into tangible improvements across all levels of education.

As India prepares for the announcement of the Union Budget 2025-26, all eyes are on the government’s allocation of funds towards education and skilling. The BJP-led government, now in its first term since re-election in 2024, has an opportunity to set the tone for the next five years, addressing long-standing issues of underfunding while building on past efforts to improve accessibility. This budget is expected to be pivotal in aligning the country’s education system with the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy, as industry experts weigh in on their expectations.

Addressing Key Gaps with Higher Budgetary Allocation

Praveen Singh, CEO of Aasoka (research-based blended curriculum developers for K-12), emphasises the importance of increasing investment in education to 6% of the GDP, which is in line with the ambitions of NEP 2020. “Such investment will be crucial for enhancing public-private partnerships, expanding skilling initiatives, and creating sustainable employment opportunities that contribute to individual empowerment and national economic growth,” Singh said. He also highlighted that achieving ambitious Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) targets in higher education requires leveraging technology and online learning. However, to achieve this, policies must prioritise accessibility and the improvement of learning outcomes.

“Many educational institutions face challenges due to outdated infrastructure and limited technological resources. Addressing these gaps, along with equipping students and faculty with proper tools and training, is vital to preparing future generations for a tech-driven job market,” Singh added, calling for a clear policy roadmap that ensures effective delivery of critical learning skills.

Digital Infrastructure and Inclusive Learning: The Road Ahead

Aarul Malaviya, Founder of Zamit (an AI-driven ed-tech platform), believes that the upcoming budget should prioritise digital infrastructure and inclusive learning. “Increased allocations for technology integration in schools, tax incentives for EdTech platforms, and support for teacher training initiatives can drive innovation and accessibility. With a growing focus on future-ready skills, we anticipate measures that strengthen collaboration between industry and academia, enabling India to nurture a workforce equipped for the challenges of tomorrow,” Malaviya said.

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Echoing this sentiment, Naman Jain, Vice-Chairman of Silverline Prestige School, highlighted the need for comprehensive digital integration in K-12 education. “It is essential to dedicate funds toward improving internet access, supplying modern devices, and equipping both educators and students with necessary digital competencies. Schools can provide interactive and personalised learning experiences using technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education,” Jain said. He also called for increasing the current 4% of GDP allocated to education to 6%, aligning investments with advancements in AI and technology while addressing schools’ fundamental needs.

Holistic Learning and Skill Development at the Core

Dilip Gangaramani, Founder & Managing Director of Target Learning Ventures, pointed out that holistic child development should be a key focus of this year’s budget. “Robust support in implementing play-based learning methodologies, investments in teacher training, and the establishment of specialised labs—such as robotics and astronomy labs—can empower students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” Gangaramani suggested. He also stressed the importance of bridging the digital divide, particularly for marginalised communities, and ensuring access to quality education through increased government support for digital learning resources.

Naman Jain further emphasised the importance of skilling, particularly in emerging fields like AI, data science, and renewable energy. “A concentrated effort on equipping individuals with future-ready employable skills is necessary to provide hands-on experience, especially in creative industries. The government should prioritise investments in AI hubs, centres of excellence, and regulatory frameworks for the EdTech sector,” he stated.

Fostering Innovation Through Industry Collaboration

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor of Mahindra University, highlighted the need for public-private partnerships to make education more accessible and effective. “Increased financial incentives, simplified regulatory frameworks, and enhanced incubation support can stimulate technological advancements. Establishing centres of excellence and fostering interdisciplinary education can bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application,” Medury noted.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of the World University of Design, emphasised India’s potential in the creative economy. “Our animation, AR/VR, and design sectors are already demonstrating world-class capabilities. By combining our cost-effective talent pool with strategic policy support, we can transform from a service provider into a global creative powerhouse,” Gupta said.

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The Role of Fintech in Education Access

Nikunj Agarwal, CFO of Propelld (a FinTech startup specializing in education lending), highlighted the importance of improving credit accessibility for non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in the education sector. “The private education landscape plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and skill development in India. We urge policymakers to implement reforms that enable lower lending rates and promote co-lending models, thereby facilitating easier access to funds for students,” Agarwal said.

Building on Past Investments

The Union Budget 2024-25 allocated ₹1.48 lakh crore for education, employment, and skilling, representing a 7.7% increase from the previous year. Key areas included increased funds for school education, higher education, research and development, internationalisation, and foundational literacy and numeracy. Initiatives were also introduced to skill 20 lakh students over five years and provide internship opportunities for one crore youth.

The upcoming budget will need to expand on these efforts, ensuring that investments are not only increased but effectively utilised to deliver tangible outcomes. With the education sector being a critical driver of India’s future workforce, experts believe that this budget could be a game-changer, setting the nation on a path toward sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

All in all, the Union Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity to address fundamental issues in the education sector and drive innovation through strategic investments. With experts calling for increased funding, policy reforms, and public-private collaboration, this budget could mark a significant step in shaping a future-ready India.

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