The grant recognises accomplished senior scientists and engineers in India who have demonstrated outstanding research achievements and continue to contribute to high-impact developments in science, engineering and technology.

The six IIT Madras professors selected for the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant are Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, Prof. Thalappil Pradeep, Prof. Sundargopal Ghosh, Prof. Deepa Venkitesh, Prof. Jitendra S. Sangwai and Prof. Ramakrishnan Swaminathan.

Their research spans several strategically important areas, including assistive healthcare technologies, clean drinking water, advanced optical communications, carbon capture, biomedical engineering and modern chemistry.

Each awardee will receive ₹25 lakh annually for a period of five years, in addition to institutional overhead support. The funding can be utilised for research manpower, equipment, consumables, travel, contingency expenditure and other requirements necessary to advance scientific projects.

Over five years, the direct research grant for each scientist can amount to ₹1.25 crore, providing substantial support for pursuing ambitious and potentially transformative research.

The grant is individual-specific and is awarded through a competitive selection process. It is designed particularly for senior scientists and engineers who have already established strong research records and have the potential to continue making major contributions to their fields.

Researchers between 45 and 65 years of age working at recognised Indian academic or research institutions are eligible to apply. Their selection is based on research achievements such as publications, patents, technology development, grants, technology transfer and wider societal or scientific impact.

IIT Madras Director Congratulates Awardees

Congratulating the six faculty members, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti highlighted the importance of the achievement and its connection to the institute’s growing research ecosystem.

The recognition reflects the quality of research and development being carried out at IIT Madras, particularly in critical and emerging technologies.

The selection of six professors from different academic departments also demonstrates the interdisciplinary strength of the institute. Their work addresses challenges ranging from healthcare accessibility and safe drinking water to next-generation communication technologies and sustainable energy.

Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan: Advancing Assistive Technologies

Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan from the Department of Mechanical Engineering is widely recognised for her contributions to prosthetics, rehabilitation engineering and assistive technologies.

She heads IIT Madras’ TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development as well as the National Center for Assistive Health Technologies.

Her research focuses on creating affordable and practical mobility solutions that meet the requirements of Indian users. Several assistive devices developed by her team have attracted attention for combining engineering innovation with social impact.

These include the NeoFly-NeoBolt system, Standing Wheelchair, Kadam prosthetic knee and YD One wheelchair.

Such technologies have the potential to improve mobility, independence and quality of life for people with disabilities while making advanced assistive devices more accessible.

Prof. Thalappil Pradeep: Developing Clean-Water Technologies

Prof. Thalappil Pradeep from the Department of Chemistry is internationally known for his research in nanomaterials, clean-water technologies, microdroplets and ice chemistry.

A major focus of his work has been the development of affordable technologies capable of providing safe drinking water to communities.

His research demonstrates how advanced chemistry and nanoscience can be translated into practical solutions for large-scale societal challenges.

The International Centre for Clean Water at IIT Madras Research Park plays an important role in moving laboratory discoveries towards real-world applications.

The J. C. Bose Grant could provide further support for developing innovative technologies that address water purification and related environmental challenges.

Prof. Deepa Venkitesh: Strengthening Advanced Optical Communications

Prof. Deepa Venkitesh from the Department of Electrical Engineering has made significant contributions to high-capacity optical communication systems, optical signal processing and microwave photonics.

She leads the Advanced Optical Communication Testbed at IIT Madras, which supports research in advanced communication technologies.

Her work includes research on multicore fibre technologies and indigenous communication solutions capable of supporting increasingly high volumes of digital data.

As demand for faster and more reliable communication infrastructure continues to rise, research in optical networks and photonics is expected to play an important role in the development of next-generation communication systems.

Prof. Jitendra S. Sangwai: Researching Carbon Capture and Energy Engineering

Prof. Jitendra S. Sangwai from the Department of Chemical Engineering focuses on energy engineering, gas hydrates and carbon capture, utilisation and sequestration (CCUS).

Carbon capture technologies are becoming increasingly important as countries and industries explore solutions for reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Prof. Sangwai has published more than 200 journal papers, filed 43 patents and received several national-level recognitions for his work.

His research contributes to the development of technologies that could support cleaner energy systems and more sustainable industrial processes.

Prof. Ramakrishnan Swaminathan: Innovating in Biomedical Engineering

Prof. Ramakrishnan Swaminathan from the Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering conducts research in medical-device design, biomedical instrumentation and the analysis of brain and muscle functions.

He has authored more than 550 research papers and guided over 50 research scholars.

His work combines engineering and medical science to develop improved technologies for healthcare monitoring, diagnosis and biomedical applications.

The ANRF J. C. Bose Grant can support further research in medical-device development and biomedical engineering, areas that are increasingly important for India’s expanding healthcare needs.

Prof. Sundargopal Ghosh: Exploring Advanced Boron Chemistry

Prof. Sundargopal Ghosh from the Department of Chemistry is a leading researcher in transition-metal boron chemistry.

His research investigates boron-rich molecular systems, catalysis and the activation of small molecules.

With more than 325 research papers published in international journals, Prof. Ghosh has contributed extensively to modern inorganic and organometallic chemistry.

Research in catalysis and molecular chemistry can have applications across areas such as materials science, energy, pharmaceuticals and sustainable chemical processes.

Strengthening India’s Frontier Research Ecosystem

The selection of six IIT Madras faculty members for the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant demonstrates the institute’s strong position in India’s research and innovation landscape.

More importantly, the areas represented by the researchers show how scientific excellence can be connected with practical challenges.

Affordable assistive devices can improve healthcare accessibility. Clean-water technologies can strengthen public health. Optical communication research can support India’s digital infrastructure. Carbon capture technologies can contribute to sustainability, while advances in biomedical engineering and chemistry can enable future innovations across industries.

Long-term research grants such as the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant allow experienced scientists to pursue ambitious ideas without being constrained by short funding cycles.

For IIT Madras, the recognition of six professors across multiple disciplines highlights the institute’s capacity to conduct internationally relevant research while developing technologies capable of addressing India’s technological, environmental and social priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant?

The ANRF J. C. Bose Grant is a prestigious research grant offered under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. It supports accomplished senior scientists and engineers in India who have demonstrated strong research achievements and continue to work on high-impact scientific and technological projects.

2. How many IIT Madras professors received the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant?

Six IIT Madras faculty members were selected: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, Prof. Thalappil Pradeep, Prof. Sundargopal Ghosh, Prof. Deepa Venkitesh, Prof. Jitendra S. Sangwai and Prof. Ramakrishnan Swaminathan.

3. How much funding is provided under the J. C. Bose Grant?

Each selected researcher receives ₹25 lakh annually for five years, along with institutional overhead support. This provides up to ₹1.25 crore in direct research funding over the five-year period.

4. What research areas are covered by the selected IIT Madras professors?

Their research includes prosthetics and assistive technologies, clean-water technologies, nanomaterials, optical communications, microwave photonics, carbon capture, energy engineering, biomedical instrumentation, medical devices and transition-metal boron chemistry.

5. Who is eligible for the ANRF J. C. Bose Grant?

Scientists and engineers between 45 and 65 years of age working in recognised Indian academic or research institutions can apply. Selection considers achievements such as publications, patents, grants, technology development, technology transfer and broader research impact.

This represents an increase of nearly 47% in foreign student enrolment over ten years and highlights the growing international appeal of Indian universities and colleges.

Affordable education, English-medium programmes, improving academic infrastructure, expanding research opportunities and government initiatives such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Study in India programme are among the major factors contributing to this growth.

Foreign Student Enrolment in India Records Strong Growth

India’s higher education sector has witnessed considerable expansion in terms of international participation. The rise from 39,517 foreign students in 2013–14 to 58,134 in 2023–24 demonstrates growing confidence in the Indian education system.

The trend suggests that India is gradually attracting students beyond its traditional South Asian markets and developing a broader presence in the international education sector.

Karnataka Remains India’s Top Destination for Foreign Students

Karnataka continues to lead the country in international student enrolment. The state recorded 7,914 foreign students during the 2023–24 academic year.

Cities such as Bengaluru, Manipal and Mysuru have developed into major education centres, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programmes.

Karnataka is particularly popular for courses in engineering, computer science, medicine, biotechnology, management, artificial intelligence, data science and design.

Bengaluru also provides a unique advantage for international students because of its position as India’s technology and startup hub. Students studying in the city can gain exposure to multinational companies, research centres, technology startups and internship opportunities.

The availability of English-medium programmes, strong transport connectivity, cosmopolitan culture and well-developed educational infrastructure further contribute to Karnataka’s popularity among international students.

Punjab Overtakes Tamil Nadu to Secure Second Position

Punjab has emerged as one of the biggest highlights of the latest AISHE data.

The state hosted 7,902 foreign students in 2023–24, placing it just behind Karnataka and ahead of Tamil Nadu.

Punjab’s rise reflects the growing international presence of universities and professional institutions in the state. Relatively affordable tuition fees, lower living expenses, expanding international collaborations and cultural connections with neighbouring countries have contributed to the increase.

The difference between Karnataka and Punjab is now extremely small, indicating increasingly strong competition among Indian states to attract international learners.

After Karnataka and Punjab, Maharashtra recorded 6,190 foreign students, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 5,953 and Tamil Nadu with 5,694.

Top Five Indian States for Foreign Student Enrolment

These states benefit from large university networks, professional courses, urban infrastructure and increasing international partnerships.

Nepal Continues to Be the Largest Source Country

Nepal remains the largest source of international students studying in India and accounts for nearly one-fourth of total foreign enrolment.

Geographical proximity is one of the biggest reasons behind this trend. Students from Nepal can travel easily to India and often find similarities in culture, language and lifestyle.

Indian institutions also provide relatively affordable degree programmes across areas such as engineering, medicine, management, science and humanities.

The recognition of Indian qualifications and long-established educational connections between the two countries make India a natural higher education destination for many Nepali students.

At the same time, the increase in the number of source countries from 158 to 173 shows that India is increasingly attracting learners from a more diverse global student community.

Why Are International Students Choosing India?

Several factors are helping India emerge as an attractive alternative to traditional higher education destinations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

Affordable Education

Tuition fees and living expenses in India can be considerably lower than those in many Western countries. This allows international students to access recognised degree programmes without facing extremely high education costs.

English-Medium Programmes

A large number of Indian universities deliver programmes in English, particularly in engineering, management, medicine, technology and science.

This makes it easier for international learners to study and communicate on campus.

Wide Range of Courses

Indian institutions offer programmes across traditional as well as emerging fields, including:

• Engineering and Technology
• Medicine and Healthcare
• Management
• Law
• Agriculture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Biotechnology
• Computer Science
• Design

The increasing availability of programmes in emerging technologies is also making Indian institutions more relevant to global employment trends.

Cultural and Economic Exposure

International students studying in India gain exposure to one of the world’s largest and most diverse economies.

India’s multicultural environment, growing startup ecosystem, technology sector and expanding industries can provide students with valuable academic as well as professional experiences.

Undergraduate Programmes Dominate Foreign Enrolment

Undergraduate courses continue to attract the majority of foreign students in India.

According to AISHE 2023–24, undergraduate students represented approximately 73.6% of total foreign enrolments. Postgraduate students accounted for around 16.8%.

The figures indicate that India is particularly attractive to students looking to complete their first university degree abroad.

Professional undergraduate programmes in engineering, medicine, management and technology are among the areas contributing to international demand.

Role of NEP 2020 and Study in India Initiative

The Indian government has placed internationalisation at the centre of its higher education strategy.

The National Education Policy 2020 encourages Indian institutions to strengthen partnerships with international universities, improve research collaboration and increase student and faculty mobility.

The policy also aims to make Indian campuses more globally competitive and welcoming to students from other countries.

Similarly, the Study in India initiative seeks to promote Indian universities internationally and simplify access to educational opportunities for foreign students.

Together, these initiatives are helping position India as a potential global education hub.

Challenges India Must Address

Despite the increase in international enrolment, India still has considerable room for growth.

Universities need to strengthen international student support systems, improve campus accommodation and create more multicultural environments.

Simplifying visa procedures and administrative processes could also make India more accessible to students considering overseas education.

Indian institutions may additionally benefit from expanding international faculty recruitment, semester exchange programmes, joint degrees, research partnerships and global university collaborations.

Greater visibility in international rankings and stronger global marketing could further improve India’s competitiveness.

India’s Potential as a Global Education Destination

The 47% rise in foreign student enrolment over the past decade is a positive indicator for India’s higher education system.

With 58,134 foreign students from 173 countries studying in India during 2023–24, the country is gradually expanding its influence in the international education market.

Karnataka remains the leading destination, while Punjab’s rise to second place shows how the international student landscape within India is evolving.

Continued investment in academic quality, student experience, research infrastructure, global partnerships and international outreach will be essential.

If these areas continue to improve, India could strengthen its position as one of the world’s significant destinations for affordable, diverse and globally connected higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many foreign students are studying in India?

According to AISHE 2023–24, India hosted 58,134 foreign students from 173 countries. This is an increase from 39,517 international students recorded in 2013–14.

2. Which Indian state has the highest number of foreign students?

Karnataka has the highest foreign student enrolment in India, with 7,914 international students in 2023–24. Punjab follows closely with 7,902 students.

3. Which country sends the most students to India?

Nepal is the largest source country for foreign students studying in India, accounting for nearly one-fourth of total international enrolment.

4. Why do foreign students choose India for higher education?

International students choose India because of affordable tuition fees, comparatively lower living costs, English-medium programmes, diverse courses, recognised institutions and opportunities in fields such as engineering, medicine, management, AI and computer science.

5. What percentage of foreign students in India are undergraduates?

Undergraduate students account for approximately 73.6% of total foreign student enrolment in India, while postgraduate students represent around 16.8%, according to AISHE 2023–24.