India, France discuss proposed IIT campus, deeper research ties

India and France are exploring a proposed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in France as part of efforts to expand academic mobility, research partnerships and innovation ties between the two countries.

Union Minister for Education Pralhad Joshi held talks with France’s Minister for Higher Education, Research and Space, Philippe Baptiste, on strengthening cooperation in higher education and research. The proposed IIT campus in France was among the key initiatives discussed.

In a post on X, Joshi said the two sides discussed expanding student and faculty mobility, strengthening institutional partnerships and promoting joint research between Indian and French institutions.

Proposed IIT campus in France

The proposed IIT campus was discussed as part of broader efforts to deepen educational links between India and France.

However, details such as the IIT that could establish the campus, its proposed location, academic programmes and timeline have not yet been announced.

The ministers also discussed the revised Mutual Recognition of Qualifications Agreement, which seeks to facilitate greater recognition of academic qualifications between the two countries.

Focus on student mobility and research

The discussions extended beyond the proposed campus to several existing academic and research initiatives.

The two sides reviewed cooperation under 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 programmes are aimed at creating greater opportunities for students, faculty and researchers to work across institutions and countries.

The talks also included the progress and opportunities emerging from Bharat Innovates 2026, according to Joshi.

India-France Innovation Year 2026

The India-France Year of Innovation 2026 is expected to provide another platform for strengthening cooperation in education, research and technology.

Joshi said the initiative could help deepen academic partnerships, encourage innovation and support the development of future-ready talent.

The proposed IIT campus, along with expanded student exchanges, institutional partnerships and joint research, signals a broader push to build stronger and more sustained education links between India and France.