During a Lok Sabha session, Dum Dum MP Sougata Roy raised concerns about the increasing number of Indian students choosing to study abroad. In response, Union Minister Dharamendra Pradhan asserted that India has no shortage of quality educational institutions, such as IITs, IIMs, and NITs. He argued that the concept of “”brain drain”” is outdated, stating that there is now a trend of “”brain back,”” citing successful Indian-origin leaders like Satya Nadella, Sundar Pichai, Shantanu Narayen, and Ajay Banga.
Mr. Roy expressed dissatisfaction with Mr. Pradhan’s response, suggesting that the Indian diaspora seems to gather to “”clap every time Prime Minister Modi visits their country.”” He noted that 8.94 lakh Indian students went abroad. Mr. Pradhan countered by emphasizing the achievements of the Indian diaspora in science and innovation and advised against making such remarks.
Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor also commented on the issue, pointing out that only 0.08% of applicants gain admission to IITs, which he said indicates a “”lack of access to education.”” He warned that while there are islands of excellence, there is a broader issue of mediocrity that should not be overlooked.
