The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) today published a strategy paper on cooperation with India on the occasion of the "Indo-German Forum" in New Delhi. The paper highlights the great potential of academic exchange and scientific cooperation between Germany and India and provides German universities with specific recommendations for action.

"Academic cooperation with the world's largest democracy is gaining strategic importance for Germany in principle, but also in light of the major geopolitical developments and upheavals," said DAAD President Prof Dr Joybrato Mukherjee. "India is rapidly developing into one of the world's leading centres of science and innovation. The dynamic development of the Indian higher education and research system opens up numerous opportunities for bilateral cooperation - from student mobility and the recruitment of skilled labour to research and innovation partnerships."

India's growing importance for science and research

India is not only the most populous country in the world, but is also expected to be the third largest economy by 2030. The country is investing heavily in research and innovation, particularly in key technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum research and sustainable energy. With over 46,000 universities and more than 43 million students, India also offers an enormous pool of talent. The Indian government is currently focusing on ambitious higher education reforms and increased internationalisation. Due to the increased demand for study places, the demand for study opportunities abroad is also rising. This is also making itself felt in Germany: With around 50,000 students, Indians make up the largest group of international students at German universities.

India has already caught up with the global research leaders in some key disciplines and continues to pursue ambitious growth targets. Stronger cooperation with India offers the opportunity to diversify international scientific relations in view of increasingly challenging relationships with research partners such as China.

Recommendations for German universities

Based on its analyses, the DAAD makes four key recommendations for German universities on cooperation with India:

• Establish strategic collaborations: German universities should specifically look for strategic partner universities and expand existing collaborations. Universities outside the major Indian metropolises in particular offer untapped potential. Cooperation with Indian non-university research institutions should also be given greater consideration.
• Attracting Indian talent: The focus should be on the targeted recruitment of highly qualified students. Universities should prioritise quality and design selection procedures accordingly. In addition, tailor-made support services should be provided, particularly for the transition to the German labour market.
• Promoting transfer and innovation: Germany's universities can benefit from India's dynamic start-up culture, and collaborations in the field of technology transfer and innovation promotion in particular offer new opportunities. India is also an attractive location for collaborations with research-based commercial enterprises based there - including those from Germany.
• Strengthen regional expertise: Successful cooperation requires in-depth knowledge of the Indian science system, the diverse society and transparent communication based on partnership. Indian cooperation perspectives should be consciously reflected and integrated. In particular, mobility from Germany to India should be increased in order to promote the mutual exchange of knowledge.

Political framework conditions are crucial

In October 2024, the German government emphasised the importance of Indo-German cooperation in its "Focus on India" strategy at the last Indo-German intergovernmental consultations. Scientific and technological cooperation plays a central role in this. In its strategy paper, the DAAD therefore emphasises the need for targeted support for German universities and scientific organisations in order to make the most of India's great potential for German science and industry.

The DAAD in India and the "Indo-German Forum"

The DAAD has had its own branch office in India for 65 years. It also runs the "German House for Research and Innovation New Delhi" (DWIH), which promotes the German research landscape in India and strengthens academic cooperation between the two countries. In 2023, the DAAD supported around 3,300 students, doctoral candidates and university staff on academic exchanges to and from India.

The "Indo-German Forum - Research, Innovation and Transfer" organised by the DWIH and the DAAD is currently taking place in the Indian capital New Delhi. Leaders from over 80 German universities are on site to discuss the future of Indo-German research cooperation with partners.