Web Desk
In 2023, Canada emerged as the top destination for Indian students, with a record 4.27 lakh Indian students enrolling in Canadian educational institutions, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This represents the highest number of Indian students studying in any country, surpassing even the United States, which saw 3.51 lakh Indian students in the same year. The UAE and Australia followed with 2.47 lakh and 1.24 lakh students, respectively.
Rising Numbers Amid Diplomatic Challenges
The surge in Indian students choosing Canada comes despite ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, particularly in the aftermath of the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Relations between the two nations have been strained since last year, raising concerns about the potential impact on student migration. However, the data indicates that these geopolitical challenges have not deterred Indian students from pursuing education in Canada.
Challenges Faced by Indian Students in Canada
While Canada remains a preferred destination, Indian students have faced significant challenges, including issues related to housing, food, and obtaining work permits. The rapid increase in student numbers has led to overcrowding in some areas, exacerbating these problems. Despite these challenges, the appeal of Canadian education, coupled with the country’s multicultural environment, continues to attract a growing number of Indian students.
Government Encourages Legal Migration
In response to a query from Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State (MoS) Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed that the number of Indian students going to Canada has increased steadily over the past three years. Singh emphasized that the Indian government encourages only legal forms of migration, including for educational purposes, and continues to monitor the situation closely.
A Broader Trend in International Education
The rise in Indian students studying abroad is not limited to Canada. According to the MEA, a total of 13.18 lakh Indian students went to 68 different countries for higher education in 2023, marking the highest figure in the past three years. This represents a significant increase from 11.58 lakh in 2021 and 9.07 lakh in 2022, indicating a strong rebound in international student mobility post-pandemic.
Safety Concerns and Mortality Rates
Despite the increasing numbers, there have been safety concerns for Indian students abroad. Data presented in Parliament earlier this year revealed that 91 Indian students have died in Canada since 2018, the highest number among foreign countries. The issue has raised alarms, with reports suggesting that on average, the mortal remains of five to eight Indian students from Canada are sent back to India each month.
The growing trend of Indian students pursuing education abroad, particularly in Canada, underscores the increasing global mobility of Indian youth. Despite challenges such as strained diplomatic relations and the logistical difficulties of living abroad, the desire for quality education and better opportunities continues to drive students towards international destinations. The Indian government’s emphasis on legal migration and the continued rise in student numbers highlight the evolving landscape of global education for Indian students.
