Role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations’ Cultural and Educational Schemes in Fostering International Understanding among International Students in India

Abstract

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has been playing an important role in the field of education for international students in India. It offers a number of scholarships to foreign nationals to pursue higher studies in Indian universities and other recognised institutes of higher education and learning. The research aimed to evaluate the role of ICCR cultural and educational schemes in promoting international understanding. It reviews the efficacy of ICCR schemes in achieving the purpose of international understanding through its cultural, educational, music and yoga, tourism, and socio-economic programs. A descriptive and exploratory research design was selected. This study has used both quantitative and qualitative research methods with a sample size of 35 international students enrolled in different Indian Universities under ICCR's scholarships. The data collection was done through the structured questionnaire; SPSS version 25 was used to analyse the responses. Also, descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses were conducted for the data collected through the present study. The programs of ICCR are well considered to bring out cultural awareness and an immense appreciation for the heritage of India. However, some areas of concern included difficulties in adjustment to the cultural differences and limited support services. This study underlines the potential of ICCR's programs to create a lasting impact as it promotes mutual understanding among international students. These findings add to the subtle understanding of the ICCR's role in cultural exchange and highlight opportunities for the strengthening of support structures, thereby suggesting a model to enhance the experience of international students, promoting cross-cultural dialogue in higher education.