From state to market: Shifts in access and quality in Indian higher education

The transition from a state-controlled to a market-oriented approach in India’s higher education sector, driven by neoliberal reforms, has led to profound changes in the structure and dynamics of the system. This paper critically examines the implications of neoliberalism on the privatization of higher education in India, with a specific focus on student access, participation, and the quality of both public and private universities. The study explores trends in absolute enrollment, decadal growth in the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), and the Gender Parity Index (GPI) across diverse social groups, while also evaluating the quality of institutions as reflected in national and international rankings. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, the paper utilizes secondary data from authoritative sources such as the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) and University Grants Commission (UGC) reports. The findings reveal that while neoliberal policies have contributed to significant expansion in access and participation, especially through the growth of private institutions, challenges related to equity, affordability, and quality assurance persist. The study underscores the need for a robust regulatory framework to address these challenges and ensure inclusive, high-quality education for all students. The paper provides critical insights for policymakers, administrators, and educators, offering evidence-based recommendations for the ongoing reform and governance of higher education in India.