100 Years of Association of Indian Universities

Genesis and Evolution

The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) was incepted on 23rd March, 1925 as the Inter-University Board of India. It was established as an authorised central agency to develop higher education in India to the highest standards through collective efforts of universities and higher education bodies. The organisation was registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 on 29th September, 1967, and was rechristened as the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in 1973.

Over the decades, AIU has emerged as a flagship body of Indian higher education institutions and a trusted source of research-based policy advice to the Government of India. What began as a focused initiative on higher education has steadily expanded its scope to include diverse and allied domains.

Expanding Role and Functions

AIU has grown resiliently, adding new dimensions such as equivalence of degrees and qualifications of Indian and foreign universities, research and training, sports, cultural activities, and promotion of youth affairs. Beyond cooperation and coordination among universities and national and international bodies, AIU has played a vital role in shaping Indian higher education, being an integral part of major decision-making committees and commissions in the country.

Vision and Motto

Guided by its motto “Sanghat Sanjayate Sandhih” (Strength lies in unity), AIU aims to promote and represent Indian universities through strong liaison with the Government and national and international higher education organisations. It seeks to foster cooperation, coordination and mutual support among member universities and stakeholders to enhance quality education, research and academic excellence.

Membership and Global Outreach

Almost all universities in India are members of AIU. In addition, recognised universities from countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Malaysia, Nepal, Thailand, UAE and the United Kingdom are Associate Members. This wide network enables AIU to serve as a bridge between Indian and global higher education systems.

Objectives and Academic Contributions

The core objectives of AIU include functioning as an inter-university organisation, acting as a bureau of information, facilitating communication and consultation among universities, and serving as a liaison between universities and the Central and State Governments. AIU cooperates with national and international bodies on matters of common interest and represents Indian universities at various forums.

AIU actively promotes programmes to improve standards of instruction, examination, research, textbooks, scholarly publications, library organisation, and other academic initiatives that contribute to the growth and dissemination of knowledge.

Facilitating Collaboration and Mobility

AIU helps universities maintain their autonomous character while promoting student mobility, exchange of teaching and research staff, sharing of infrastructure, joint research projects and collaborative publications. It signs Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with counterpart organisations abroad, facilitates MoUs between universities, and assists in recognition of degrees, diplomas and examinations in India and overseas.

The association regularly organises conferences, seminars, workshops, lectures and research activities on themes relevant to higher education.

Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities

Recognised as a National Sports Promotion Organization (NSPO), AIU plays a key role in promoting sports among universities, maintaining standards and encouraging participation in national and international championships. It also works towards improving sports infrastructure in universities.

Additionally, AIU supports youth welfare, student information services, cultural programmes and adult education, contributing to the holistic development and welfare of students, teachers and the academic community.

Publications and Service Role

AIU acts as a service agency for universities and undertakes publication of newsletters, research papers, books and journals, further strengthening academic dialogue and dissemination of knowledge.

Commemoration through Postage Stamp

To mark a century of dedicated service, the Department of Posts proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp on “100 Years of the Association of Indian Universities”. This stamp honours AIU’s pivotal role in shaping, strengthening and advancing higher education in India, and celebrates the enduring legacy it has built over nearly a hundred years.