Five foreign universities, including three from the United States, have evinced interest in establishing campuses in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced at a US-India Business Council (USIBC) event in Mumbai on March 25.

The three US-based institutions are ranked among the world’s top 50 universities. These universities are expected to be part of a larger initiative to develop an education hub in a proposed urban settlement across the harbour from Mumbai, referred to as ‘Third Mumbai’.

While discussions have begun, a formal Memorandum of Understanding with these universities is yet to be signed. Under Indian regulations, foreign universities can set up campuses in the country only with approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC). Fadnavis said the state government is currently in discussions with the UGC to facilitate the necessary clearances.

The proposed campuses could provide globally recognised degrees within India, reducing the need for students to seek higher education abroad. This initiative aligns with Maharashtra’s broader goal of attracting international investment in education and fostering research collaborations between Indian and foreign institutions.

Commenting about innovation and investment, Fadnavi said the state was leading the country in data centres, start-ups, and technological advancements. With Maharashtra housing 65 percent of India's data centres, the state has now become the data centre capital of the country, he said.

Looking ahead, Fadnavis invited American investors and entrepreneurs to participate in the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025), which will be held in Mumbai. He described this as a golden opportunity to showcase India's creative and entertainment industry on a global platform.

Highlighting Maharashtra’s economic contributions, Fadnavis emphasised that the state played a crucial role in India’s GDP growth and foreign direct investment.

“Maharashtra has set new records in FDI inflows, making it the most preferred destination for global investors. The state is also recognised as the startup capital of India, leading in investments for emerging businesses and entrepreneurial ventures”, he said.

Fadnavis spoke about various ongoing projects shaping Maharashtra’s future. He mentioned the establishment of Innovation City in Navi Mumbai, designed to create a world-class ecosystem for technology and education.

Another major development is the creation of the ‘Fourth Mumbai’ in the Vasai, Virar, and Palghar regions, which will see significant industrial and infrastructural growth.