Hyderabad: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan shared his happiness over some southern states advancing faster than other regions in India.
On Tuesday, he spoke to the media, emphasizing how progress in one part of the country can benefit others. He highlighted the economic growth driven by southern states.
He mentioned Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s plan to create a quantum valley in Andhra Pradesh. Pradhan noted all southern states are moving forward. Bengaluru is known as the startup hub, Tamil Nadu hosts many multinational companies, Hyderabad is growing quickly, Andhra Pradesh is competing well, and Kerala is advancing too.
Recently, Prime Minister Modi opened maritime facilities in Kerala, stressing the importance of South India’s development. These states are becoming ideal models for others in the country.
Pradhan pointed out that South India is becoming a key center for new professional growth. Historically, Southern India has been known for knowledge, entrepreneurship, and innovation. He sees it as a major driver of national development.
The region leads in education with institutions like IIT Madras, IIT Hyderabad, and the Sammakka-Sarakka Central Tribal University in Telangana. Other emerging institutions include IIIT Tirupati, Palakkad IIT, and Kozhikode IIM. Recently, foreign universities were allowed to open campuses in India, with the University of Liverpool getting approval to start in Bengaluru.
Educational contributions also come from Maharashtra and Gujarat. Pradhan believes Southern India’s background, knowledge, and work ethic position it well for leading education nationwide.
He mentioned plans for an Indian Institute of Management in Hyderabad, noting the Telangana government’s interest in overseeing certain institutions. There is a nationwide agreement that educational institutions should have more freedom.
Currently, the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education is 20%, with a goal to reach 50% by 2035. This goal requires more colleges and universities, thus expanding educational opportunities. The minister acknowledged that bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC) ensure universities operate fairly. Both state and central governments have roles in monitoring to prevent monopolies and extortion. While private universities are an option for those who can afford them, 60 to 70% of students attend state or central government institutions.
