In a statement that has sparked significant debate, India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar recently referred to the trend of young Indians studying abroad as a “new disease.” This surprising description, coming from one of India’s highest offices, was voiced following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to curb the rising number of students seeking education overseas. But what lies at the core of Dhankar’s opposition to studying abroad?

Dhankar’s comments highlight his concerns about the financial and intellectual resources that India loses when young Indians choose foreign institutions over domestic ones. Specifically, he pointed to two issues—brain drain and foreign exchange losses, estimating that the latter costs India around USD $6 billion annually. However, Dhankar’s views on this topic have raised questions, as they appear at odds with his personal background; reports indicate that his own daughter has pursued education in the United States, United Kingdom, and Italy. This inconsistency has fueled curiosity about why he would choose now to label studying abroad as problematic.

One potential catalyst for Dhankar’s remarks may be a recent report from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which estimates that approximately 1.3 million Indian students are currently enrolled in foreign educational institutions. This figure encompasses all Indians studying abroad—not just those in undergraduate or postgraduate programs but also students in boarding schools, short courses, and executive education. Given the diversity in these categories, the actual number of Indians studying full-time in higher education overseas is likely lower, though exact figures remain elusive.

This rise in Indian students pursuing international education, particularly over the last decade, has multiple drivers. These include aspirations for better rankings, superior teaching quality, modern facilities, and broader job prospects. But beyond these, there are specific systemic challenges within India’s educational landscape that often push students to look abroad. The highly competitive nature of Indian entrance exams, limited seats in top universities, reservation policies, and an oversaturated job market have created an environment where studying abroad offers a desirable alternative for many.

While the Indian government has made strides in addressing some of these systemic issues, there remains a considerable gap in the quality of education and job opportunities when compared to developed nations. Critics argue that simply condemning studying abroad as a “disease” doesn’t address the root causes prompting students to leave India. Instead, many believe that efforts should focus on improving educational infrastructure and job opportunities within the country.

A significant factor in this trend is India’s youthful population, now the largest in the world. The country’s rising family income levels and easier access to student loans have also made studying abroad more feasible for middle-class families. Jasminder Khanna from Gresham Global aptly described India as an “aspirational market,” with young people seeking the best—whether in technology, lifestyle, or education.

The desire to study abroad is also influenced by examples set by prominent Indians who studied internationally and later made a mark in India and globally. Figures like Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, Indra Nooyi, and Karan Billimoria, as well as leaders in Indian fields such as Manmohan Singh, Ratan Tata, and Amartya Sen, exemplify the profound impact of international education. These examples fuel aspirations among today’s youth, who hope to emulate their success and benefit from a global perspective.

Furthermore, the benefits of studying abroad extend far beyond academics. Immersing oneself in different cultures, acquiring new perspectives, and building a global network of connections are unique advantages that shape students in both personal and professional ways. In fact, one of India’s most iconic leaders, Mahatma Gandhi, studied and worked abroad before returning to lead the movement for India’s independence.

Having experienced studying abroad myself, I can attest to the invaluable exposure and growth that it provides. Spending nearly a decade in the UK, I found that the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and educational methods significantly influenced both my personal and professional life. For many, studying abroad offers a unique chance to expand horizons and develop insights that simply aren’t available at home.

To conclude, Vice President Dhankar’s recent remarks on studying abroad have sparked a larger conversation about the aspirations and choices of young Indians today. While brain drain and foreign exchange losses are legitimate concerns, addressing the reasons why students are driven to seek education abroad might offer a more constructive solution. With ongoing efforts to improve India’s educational landscape, the hope is that more students will eventually find world-class opportunities within their own country.

Studying abroad is not just an escape; it’s an opportunity that has, for decades, inspired India’s youth to strive for the best.