India eyes IIT campus in France, new research partnerships in focus

India and France discussed a proposed IIT campus in France during talks between their higher education ministers. The proposal formed part of wider efforts to expand student exchanges, research links and academic cooperation.

In Short

• Pralhad Joshi and Philippe Baptiste discussed expanding higher education cooperation
• Talks covered student mobility, faculty exchanges and stronger institutional partnerships
• A revised qualifications agreement featured in efforts to improve recognition

India and France have discussed plans for an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in France as they work to strengthen ties in higher education, research and innovation.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said he held talks with France’s Minister for Higher Education, Research and Space, Philippe Baptiste, on expanding academic cooperation. The proposed IIT campus in France was among the initiatives discussed during the meeting.

In a post on X, Joshi said the two sides discussed ways to deepen their partnership, including expanding student and faculty mobility, strengthening institutional partnerships and promoting joint research.

IIT CAMPUS IN FRANCE ON THE AGENDA

The proposed IIT campus was part of a broader discussion on building stronger academic links between India and France.

However, the post did not specify which IIT would establish the campus, when it could open or what its academic programmes would be.

The discussions also covered the revised Mutual Recognition of Qualifications Agreement, which is aimed at strengthening the recognition of qualifications between the two countries.

FROM STUDENT EXCHANGES TO JOINT RESEARCH

Beyond the proposed campus, both sides discussed taking forward collaborations through the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC), the Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) and the Franco-Indian Campus in Life Sciences and Health.

These initiatives are part of the wider effort to strengthen cooperation between institutions, researchers and students in the two countries.

The discussions also focused on building on the momentum of Bharat Innovates 2026, which was mentioned in Joshi’s post.

INNOVATION YEAR TO DRIVE COLLABORATION

The India-France Year of Innovation 2026 is expected to provide a platform for expanding these partnerships.

Joshi said the initiative offered an opportunity to deepen cooperation, encourage innovation and develop future-ready talent through closer academic and research links.

The proposed IIT campus in France, alongside student exchanges and joint research, forms part of the broader discussions on strengthening education ties between the two countries.

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