Srinagar, Oct. 26 -- India is expanding its doctoral education system, but an uncomfortable question remains: what happens to a scholar after completing a PhD? Years of study, research, academic discipline and personal sacrifice are expected to lead to meaningful professional opportunities. Yet, for many doctoral graduates, the journey from earning a degree to securing a stable research career remains uncertain. A country aspiring to become a global knowledge powerhouse cannot afford to neglect the future of its researchers.

According to the Government of India's All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE), PhD enrolment increased from approximately 1.17 lakh in 2014-15 to 3.43 lakh in 2023-24. This expansion reflects the growing import...