Indian Nationals Studying in Pakistan Decline to 110 in 2024
The number of Indian nationals traveling to Pakistan for education has seen a sharp decline over the past five years, according to official data. The figures show a drastic drop from 670 students in 2019 to just 110 in 2024, reflecting shifting academic trends, bilateral relations, and policy changes.
Yearly Breakdown of Indian Students in Pakistan
- 2019 – 670 students
- 2020 – 505 students (Pandemic impact begins)
- 2021 – 66 students (Travel restrictions peak)
- 2022 – 396 students (Gradual recovery)
- 2023 – 331 students
- 2024 – 110 students
The numbers reveal a continuous decline, particularly in post-pandemic years, with 2024 registering the lowest figure in the past six years.
Key Factors Behind the Decline
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Geopolitical Tensions
- Strained India-Pakistan relations have led to stricter visa regulations and cross-border travel restrictions.
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Preference for Alternative Destinations
- Indian students increasingly prefer Western countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, where higher education prospects and job opportunities are more promising.
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COVID-19 Pandemic Impact
- The pandemic led to a significant drop in international student movement, which continued even after restrictions eased.
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Limited Recognition of Pakistani Degrees in India
- Many Pakistani university degrees face challenges in recognition within India, affecting students’ career prospects.
Future Outlook
With only 110 Indian students opting for Pakistan in 2024, the trend indicates a continuing decline unless diplomatic relations improve or specific educational collaborations emerge. Meanwhile, Indian students are expected to favor other global study destinations, ensuring better career and migration opportunities.
