India and France Discuss Enhancing Cooperation in Education and Research; French Institutions Invited to Open Campuses in India

Union Education Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi held a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Philippe Baptiste, France's Minister for Higher Education, Research, and Space, in New Delhi. The meeting took place during the French Minister's three-day visit to India from September 28 to 30, 2026. Both ministers discussed in detail measures to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of education, research, innovation, academic mobility, and institutional partnerships.

During the meeting, Shri Pralhad Joshi referred to the long-term partnership between India and France, stating that the field of education is a critical pillar of the relationship between the two nations. He noted that the 'India-France Innovation Year 2026' provides an appropriate opportunity to deepen cooperation in education, research, and innovation. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the French government for its cooperation in hosting the opening ceremony of 'India Innovates 2026' in the city of Nice, France. This platform has provided Indian deep-tech startups with the opportunity to showcase their innovations on a global scale.

In the area of higher education, both sides deliberated on strengthening institutional ties, increasing the mobility of students, teachers, and researchers, and expanding collaborative academic programs. Possibilities for greater cooperation in life sciences, social sciences, and humanities were also explored.

Specifically, French higher education institutions were invited to open branch campuses in India. For this purpose, GIFT City in Gujarat and other locations where French companies are established and require technical human resources were suggested.

Furthermore, the meeting covered topics such as language learning, teacher training, sharing best practices in digital education, and the revision of the Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQ) agreement. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to promoting technology-based education and increasing access to quality education.