Indian High Commissioner Celebrates 166,000 Indian Students Contributing to UK Academic Excellence and Bilateral Relations

Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami celebrated the significant contribution of Indian students across the United Kingdom during a special welcome reception co-hosted with King's College London.

Addressing the newly arrived students, Doraiswami highlighted that the Indian student community has maintained its position as the largest international student group in the UK for the third consecutive year, with approximately 166,000 students pursuing their education across British institutions.

During his speech, the High Commissioner described Indian students as "among the brightest and the best," emphasizing that their impact extends far beyond academic achievements. "Your presence here reflects your capabilities and the value you bring to your studies and research. Additionally, you contribute significant economic value, supporting local businesses throughout the UK," he stated.

Doraiswami further emphasized the dual benefit of Indian students' presence in the UK, noting that they not only enrich British universities through their tuition fees and research contributions but also strengthen the broader diplomatic relationship between India and the United Kingdom.

"The value of this educational exchange to the larger India-UK relationship is immense. It's particularly significant that the relationship between our two democracies is being advanced by its future custodians—the young people who will eventually lead our respective nations," the High Commissioner remarked.

This welcome event, which began as an annual tradition in 2023, attracted hundreds of students beginning their higher education journey in Britain. Following a student registration initiative by the Indian High Commission, the reception was simultaneously broadcast to Indian consulates throughout the UK.

The evening provided practical information on essential matters such as banking services, personal safety measures, and healthcare access. The event concluded with entertainment including a performance by British-Indian comedian Ahir Shah and various cultural showcases, adding a celebratory atmosphere to the proceedings.