Vedanta invites states to host ₹15,000 Cr Waterfront University inspired by Harvard

Revives vision for a world-class, non-profit Education City in India

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, JUNE 16, 2025

In a landmark step toward transforming India’s higher education landscape, Vedanta Limited — India’s only and the world’s leading conglomerate in transition metals, critical minerals, energy, and technology — has called upon state governments and local administrations to join hands in establishing a world-class, non-profit university. This ambitious initiative is envisioned as part of a larger “Waterfront Education City,” backed by an initial commitment of ₹15,000 crore from the company.

The announcement, made via Vedanta’s official LinkedIn page, invites expressions of interest (EOI) from forward-looking leaderships that align with the company’s transformative educational vision. The proposed education city will be a first-of-its-kind integrated ecosystem, encompassing a multidisciplinary university, advanced R&D hubs, a premier medical school, cultural institutions, and world-class sports infrastructure. The ideal location, the company noted, must be close to both a waterfront and an airport — ensuring international appeal and accessibility.

This bold initiative echoes Vedanta’s earlier educational ambition in Odisha. In July 2009, the Odisha Legislative Assembly passed the Vedanta University Bill to establish a non-profit, multidisciplinary university in Puri — inspired by leading global institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford. Though the project was later stalled due to legal and political hurdles, the vision remains highly relevant.

Reigniting this vision presents a unique opportunity for Odisha — or any interested state — to emerge as a global hub of education and innovation. With the groundwork already laid through the 2009 legislation and the spiritual-cultural prestige of Puri, Odisha is exceptionally placed to host such a transformative institution.

Missing this opportunity once more could mean forfeiting a generational chance to create an institution of global repute, one that could uplift thousands of students, attract top academic minds, and place the host state firmly on the global academic and innovation map.