Over the past decade, the number of students enrolled in the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) has doubled, reaching 1.35 lakh from 65,000. This significant expansion was highlighted by Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar during a Lok Sabha session on Monday. The government has been actively working to enhance infrastructure and capacity at IITs, ensuring better facilities and broader access to quality technical education.
As part of these efforts, additional infrastructure will be developed at five IITs that were established after 2014. This expansion will create space for 6,500 more students, further strengthening India’s higher education sector. IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kanpur, IIT-BHU Varanasi, IIT Tirupati, and IIT Patna are now fully operational from their permanent campuses. To support their growth, the government has allocated over ₹1,830 crore in the 2024-25 financial year. In addition, the Union Budget 2025 included a major announcement regarding IIT Patna, which will see expanded hostel and campus facilities to accommodate its growing student population.
Beyond IITs, the government is addressing the rising demand for medical professionals by increasing seats in medical colleges and hospitals. As part of this initiative, 10,000 new medical seats will be added next year, contributing to a larger goal of creating 75,000 additional seats over five years. This move is aimed at strengthening India’s healthcare education system and producing more skilled doctors to meet the country’s needs.
In another key development, the government is investing in artificial intelligence (AI) education. A new Centre of Excellence in AI will be set up with an allocation of ₹500 crore. This initiative builds on previous AI-focused centers in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and sustainable cities. The new AI center is expected to drive research, innovation, and skill development in the field of artificial intelligence, equipping students and professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and expertise.
Additionally, five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling will be established to enhance vocational education. These centers will collaborate with global experts to develop industry-relevant curricula, train instructors, create a skills certification framework, and conduct periodic reviews to ensure continuous improvement in skilling programs.
The government’s focus on education, from expanding IIT infrastructure to boosting medical seats and AI research, reflects its commitment to strengthening India’s academic and professional landscape. These initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future workforce and driving technological advancements.
