A key milestone in this growing partnership was the operationalisation of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Paris on March 26, 2026. The inaugural programme featured the exhibition “L’art de l’Inde d’aujourd’hui (Living Arts of India)”, presenting more than 80 artworks created by 40 artists from India and other countries. The centre has been established as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, offering structured programmes in yoga, Hindi language, Indian classical music, and dance, alongside a year-round calendar of cultural events.
India’s cultural outreach in France has further been strengthened through the Namaste France festival. The 2023 edition, held at La Seine Musicale in Paris from July 6 to July 9, included 18 concerts, 16 workshops, and seven panel discussions, in addition to multiple exhibitions and cultural showcases. The next edition is scheduled for 2028, marking 30 years of the India–France Strategic Partnership. Beyond Paris, multiple French cities continue to host Indian cultural events, including Namaste Nantes, India Carnival in Val-de-Reuil, Desi Week in Bobigny, Happy Inde in Nice, and the Ganga Sur Seine Film Festival in Paris.
Educational cooperation between the two countries has also expanded steadily. Approximately 10,000 Indian students are currently pursuing studies in France, with both nations jointly aiming to increase this number to 30,000 by 2030. In 2023, France introduced a five-year validity Schengen visa for Indian students who have completed at least one semester of master’s-level studies in the country. In 2024, international classes were launched across around 35 French universities and schools to help non-French-speaking students achieve B2-level proficiency in French prior to entering degree programmes.
The Indian community in France continues to play a vital role in strengthening bilateral ties. The Indian diaspora in mainland France is estimated at around 119,000, while the Indian-origin population in French overseas territories exceeds 350,000, including more than 300,000 in Réunion Island and over 57,000 in Guadeloupe. More than 50 Indian community organisations are actively engaged across France, contributing to cultural continuity and bilateral engagement.
Recent consular and mobility initiatives have further enhanced connectivity. In February 2026, France exempted Indian nationals transiting through its territory exclusively by air from the requirement of a transit visa. Both countries have also continued the implementation of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, with the Young Professionals scheme becoming operational in 2024. These developments collectively underscore a deepening and multidimensional India–France partnership rooted in cultural exchange, education, and mobility.
About The Author
.jpg)
Comment List