Ever since university campuses have fallen silent and lifeless, the country’s politics has faced a drought of new youth leadership. Student union elections have either been banned or reduced to mere formalities. The echo of debates no longer resonates in universities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Allahabad, Patna, and Gorakhpur, once traditional hubs of ideas.

"Back in the days when we studied at St Peter's, we five brothers, who were in different classes, used to study from the same book. For years, the Radiant Reader, Wren's Grammar, history, and geography books were not changed. Second-hand books were available on Hospital Road. We had just one uniform, khaki, and one pair of black shoes that we polished daily to keep them shiny. But now, every year brings the same lament—everything changes in the name of business." This was the anguish of Tauji Prem Nath, who studied in the 1950s.

​"Rote learning bears no fruit" This phrase, often heard from teachers, has sparked an ongoing debate: Which is better—India’s rote-based education system or the Western model that emphasizes creativity and critical thinking?

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin may have his political reasons for opposing the implementation of Hindi through the 3-language formula, but shifting to a two-language formula in the face of growing needs for scientific education and the challenges of Artificial Intelligence would be a prudent step.

The University Grants Commission has taken a courageous step towards reforming the roles of vice-chancellors and teachers in our universities. By opening the doors for successful industrialists to step into the role of vice-chancellors, we create a robust university-industry connection. Why should those who create jobs for degree holders not have a hand in shaping the educational landscape?

Given a chance, most Indians would love to settle abroad. Patriotic sentiments or cultural bonds, don't seem to hold them back. Let's find out why…