French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France is targeting to host 30,000 Indian students in its universities by 2030, as part of a major push to deepen academic and cultural ties with India. The announcement was made during his visit to India as the chief guest for the 75th Republic Day celebrations. Macron highlighted new initiatives such as “French for All, French for a Better Future” to introduce French language education in Indian public schools, along with expanded opportunities through Alliances françaises and international classes for non-French speakers.
Macron also pledged to streamline visa procedures for Indian alumni of French universities, easing their return for further opportunities. The target builds on an earlier goal of attracting 20,000 students by 2025, supported by the “Campus France” programme launched in 2018. During his visit, Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks in Jaipur, emphasizing stronger cooperation in defense, trade, and clean energy, following a symbolic roadshow and cultural tour in the Pink City.
