Mumbai, Oct 9 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing educational connections between India and the UK, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Thursday the establishment of nine new campuses of British universities in India, including those from Southampton, Surrey, and Lancaster.

This significant announcement was made during a joint press conference with his UK counterpart, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is in India for a two-day visit, accompanied by the largest trade delegation from the UK.

"The Gurugram campus of Southampton University has already been inaugurated, with its first group of students now enrolled," stated PM Modi at the press briefing following a high-level meeting at Raj Bhavan.

Additionally, the Prime Minister mentioned that three more campuses are currently being developed in Gujarat’s GIFT city.

PM Starmer confirmed that both the University of Lancaster and the University of Surrey have received the green light to establish campuses in India to address the growing demand for higher education.

"The need for top-tier higher education is substantial. Thus, I am thrilled to announce that additional British universities will be launching campuses in India, positioning Britain as India's foremost international provider of higher education and fulfilling our Vision 2035," he remarked.

Currently, India has 40 million university students, but the demand is projected to rise to 70 million by 2035.

The esteemed UK higher education sector is seizing this opportunity, offering thousands of Indian students the chance to earn a UK degree without leaving their home country, while also significantly contributing to the economy.

"I am excited that more Indian students will soon have the opportunity to experience a world-class British education, thereby strengthening the bonds between our nations and injecting millions back into our economy while creating jobs at home," said PM Starmer.

The announcement of British university campuses in India aligns with the broader aims of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which seeks to enhance economic and educational ties.

This initiative is anticipated to promote increased collaboration in research, innovation, and academic exchange, ultimately benefiting students and professionals alike.