Nudged by RSS-Linked Body, Several Universities Replace ‘India’ with ‘Bharat’ in Degrees and Official Records
Growing Number of Universities Adopt ‘Bharat’ in Marksheets, Degrees, and Official Communication Amid Renewed National Identity Debate
A growing number of universities across India have begun replacing the word “India” with “Bharat” in degrees, marksheets, official correspondence, invitations, and institutional records. The move follows sustained advocacy by the RSS-linked organization Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas (SSUN), which has campaigned for wider adoption of the term “Bharat” in educational and public institutions.
Universities Leading the Shift
One of the most prominent examples is Rani Durgavati University, where degrees awarded during the university’s recent convocation attended by Droupadi Murmu featured the word “Bharat” instead of “India.” University officials stated that the institution’s Executive Council had approved the transition and that future academic documents would continue using “Bharat” in both Hindi and English versions.
Other universities reported to have adopted or approved similar changes include:
- Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore
- Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh
- Raja Mansingh Tomar Music and Arts University, Gwalior
University administrators have argued that “Bharat” is the country’s original and civilizational name and should be reflected more prominently in educational institutions.
RSS-Linked Campaign Behind the Movement
According to reports, the campaign has been actively promoted by the RSS-affiliated Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, an educational and cultural organization associated with the late educationist Dina Nath Batra. Representatives of the organization claim that numerous educational institutions across states such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh have passed resolutions favoring exclusive use of “Bharat” in official documentation.
Supporters of the initiative argue that the name “Bharat” has deep historical and cultural roots predating colonial rule, while “India” gained prominence through foreign usage and colonial administration.
Constitutional and Political Context
The debate over the names “India” and “Bharat” has intensified in recent years. Article 1 of the Constitution states: “India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States.” Both names are constitutionally recognized and legally valid.
The issue gained national attention during the 2023 G20 Summit when official invitations referred to the President as the “President of Bharat.” Since then, discussions about expanding the use of “Bharat” in official and public institutions have continued.
At the same time, the Union Government continues to use both terms. Major flagship programs such as Make in India, Startup India, and Stand-Up India retain the word “India” in their branding.
Support and Criticism
Supporters view the transition as a cultural and civilizational correction that strengthens national identity. Critics, however, argue that both names are constitutionally accepted and that educational institutions should focus on academic priorities rather than symbolic changes. The development has reignited broader debates regarding language, identity, history, and the role of educational institutions in shaping national narratives.
What Happens Next?
Several universities have indicated that existing stocks of printed degrees and marksheets will be exhausted before new formats bearing “Bharat” are introduced. As more institutions consider similar resolutions, the trend could expand further across India’s higher education system, potentially influencing how future generations encounter the country’s official identity in academic records.
Several universities across India have begun replacing “India” with “Bharat” in degrees, marksheets, and official records following advocacy by an RSS-linked educational body, reigniting debate over national identity and constitutional terminology.
