Beyond strategic and economic cooperation, India and France have expanded cultural, educational and people-to-people exchanges, adding a broader social dimension to their bilateral relationship ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France.
A major milestone was the operationalisation of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Paris on March 26, 2026. The inaugural event featured the exhibition “L’art de l’Inde d’aujourd’hui (Living Arts of India)”, showcasing more than 80 artworks by 40 artists from India and other countries. The centre also offers programmes in yoga, Hindi language, Indian classical music and dance, while hosting cultural events throughout the year.
India’s cultural outreach in France has also included the Namaste France festival. The 2023 edition, held at La Seine Musicale in Paris from July 6-9, featured 18 concerts, 16 workshops and seven panel discussions, alongside exhibitions and cultural showcases. The next edition is scheduled for 2028 to mark 30 years of the India-France Strategic Partnership. Several French cities also host Indian cultural events, including Namaste Nantes, India Carnival at Val-de-Reuil, Desi Week in Bobigny, Happy Inde in Nice and the Ganga Sur Seine Film Festival in Paris.
Educational ties have also expanded steadily. Around 10,000 Indian students are currently studying in France, with both countries aiming to increase the number to 30,000 by 2030. France introduced a five-year validity Schengen visa in 2023 for Indians who have completed at least one semester of master’s-level studies in the country. In 2024, international classes were launched in about 35 French universities and schools to help non-French-speaking students achieve B2 proficiency in French before entering degree programmes.
The Indian community in France continues to play an important role in strengthening bilateral ties. The Indian diaspora in mainland France is estimated at about 119,000, while the Indian-origin population in French overseas territories exceeds 350,000, including more than 300,000 in Reunion Island and over 57,000 in Guadeloupe. More than 50 Indian community organisations are active across France.
Recent consular initiatives have also supported greater mobility. In February 2026, France exempted Indian nationals transiting through French territory exclusively by air from the requirement of a transit visa. Both countries have also continued to implement the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, with the Young Professionals scheme becoming operational in 2024.
