Diplomatic tensions between India and Canada are prompting Indian students to reconsider plans to study in the North American country, traditionally a favored destination for higher education. The recent political standoff has become a significant deterrent, impacting students, families, and the lucrative education consultancy industry.
Manpreet Singh, a 22-year-old Sikh from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, had been set on pursuing his studies in Canada, drawn by the large Sikh diaspora that could make him feel at home. However, the ongoing strain between New Delhi and Ottawa has forced a change in plans. “Canada was always my top choice,” Manpreet Singh said, lamenting his shift to considering Europe instead. His father, Inderjeet Singh, emphasized safety concerns as the deciding factor, stating, “We want our child to have a good education, but current circumstances make Canada seem unsafe.”
The diplomatic row stems from the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh linked to the Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh state. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot by masked gunmen in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023. Ottawa has since accused New Delhi of orchestrating the attack on Canadian soil and of targeting Sikh activists through intimidation campaigns, allegedly under the direction of Indian Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah. The allegations have resulted in expulsions of Indian diplomats and reciprocal actions by New Delhi, exacerbating tensions.
The fallout has been particularly harsh for Indian students. Canada, which hosts 41% of Indian students studying abroad, has seen a decline in interest. In 2024, out of 1.3 million Indian students overseas, 427,000 were in Canada, surpassing the United States (337,000) and the United Kingdom (185,000). Education and immigration consultants, who charge between ₹50,000 ($594) and ₹500,000 ($5,945) for their services, are also facing a significant downturn.
Pratibha Jain, founder of Eduabroad, a consultancy with three decades of experience, noted a 10% decline in queries for Canada, with students exploring alternatives like the UK, Australia, Dubai, and European nations. “The shift is evident as families look for safer and stable options,” Jain explained.
While political tensions dominate headlines, the broader implications on students’ futures and an education consultancy sector dependent on Canada-bound aspirants remain profound. As families prioritize safety over tradition, Canada’s appeal as a top destination for Indian students may face long-term challenges, reshaping global education trends.
