The Economic Survey 2024-25, tabled by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament on January 31, 2025, has revealed significant advancements in India’s higher education sector. Key highlights of the survey include a 13.8% growth in the number of higher education institutions (HEIs) and an impressive rise in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) from 23.7% to 28.4% in the 18-23 age group between 2014-15 and 2021-22.
Surge in Higher Education Institutions
India’s higher education system continues to expand rapidly, driven by an increasing demand for educational opportunities.The total number of HEIs in the country has grown by 13.8% over the past eight years, rising from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23. This expansion is crucial in meeting the needs of a growing student population and facilitating access to education across diverse regions.
Breakdown of HEI Growth
This growth is not only a reflection of India’s expanding educational landscape but also the government’s push towards improving infrastructure and creating more opportunities for students in higher education.
Gross Enrolment Ratio Sees Significant Rise
The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), which indicates the number of students enrolled in higher education as a percentage of the total eligible population, has shown remarkable progress. From 2014-15 to 2021-22, the GER for the 18-23 age group increased from 23.7% to 28.4%. This growth demonstrates the country’s commitment to improving access to higher education and meeting the aspirations of young Indians.
Focus on Quality and Accessibility
Along with increasing enrolment, the Economic Survey highlights the government’s continued efforts to enhance the quality of education. Policies under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 are playing a pivotal role in transforming India’s educational landscape, making it more inclusive and accessible.
The expansion in HEIs and rising enrolment rates signal a positive trend towards a more educated workforce, which is expected to support India’s growing economy. However, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to education across rural areas and for marginalised communities.
As India works towards the goal of increasing GER to 50% by 2035, the growth of higher education institutions and rising enrolment rates mark a significant step forward in the nation’s educational evolution.
