Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan recently declared his unwavering confidence in the nation’s youth, stating emphatically that they do not require ‘anybody’s visa.’ This powerful statement was made at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) during a discussion on the U.S. government’s decision to increase the H1B visa fee to $1 lakh and India’s evolving stance on ‘brain drain’ versus ‘brain gain.’
Initially, the Minister adopted a defensive tone when asked about the comparison with China, which reportedly sees a significant return of its overseas students. He responded, “Why are you putting this question? Certain questions must be unanswered. There is a big answer.” When pressed on whether India had a specific target for its returning students, he clarified, “Certainly, China should not be a role model for India.”
“As I said, India is a liberal democracy. I don’t want to comment on China’s model. But, we are proud of our liberal democracy,” he asserted. Recalling a recent visit to the Western Ghats, he reiterated, “I have confidence in the youth of our country. If they get the opportunities, they can create global standards. I have confidence, and so, I don’t want anybody’s visa or anybody’s model.”
Chasing Money Overseas
During the event, organized by IIT-M and Think India, a student inquired about Indian students prioritizing financial gains abroad. Minister Pradhan urged the student to remain in the country, underscoring the dynamic shifts in ‘geopolitics.’
He further elaborated by referencing S. Somanath, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, who highlighted that many engineers contributing to the Chandrayaan mission were not from IITs. “So, innovation and great things are a monopoly of none. There is a purpose why this civilization has not died down. These temporary and contemporary challenges will be there. But as a society, we have to come together.” He suggested that while people might venture abroad, it should not be merely for a comfortable life, but to glean valuable societal insights. “As a society, we have to open our eyes and ears,” he added.
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The Role of Caste Quotas
Responding to a student’s query regarding whether caste-based reservations and quotas for economically weaker sections in government jobs align with the ‘Viksit Bharat project,’ especially given the differences between the 1950s and 2025, Minister Pradhan used a metaphor. Stretching out his palm, he stated, “In the 1950s, the size of five fingers was this. Today too, it is the same.” He emphasized that “society will think this way,” and encouraged the student to focus on the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ as the ultimate answer.
Earlier in the event, Minister Pradhan discussed various facets of the New Education Policy (NEP), stressing its complete implementation. The summit also saw the signing of three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). IIT-M Director V. Kamakoti and Think India’s national convenor Akanksha Warade were among the other speakers.