2,951 applicants appear for CET as foreign prospects dwindle

Reflecting a growing shift in the academic aspirations of Punjab’s youth, a total of 2,951 students appeared for the recently conducted Common Entrance Test (CET) at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), choosing local education over uncertain foreign prospects.

Breaking down the numbers, PAU Registrar Dr Rishi Pal Singh confirmed that 1,366 male and 1,585 female candidates took the exam—accounting for 46.29 per cent and 53.71 per cent respectively. With the exam conducted across 13 centres in Ludhiana, the attendance rate soared to 84.17 per cent, indicating strong interest in the university’s varied academic offerings.

The university had received over 6,500 applications across its range of courses. The CET for undergraduate programmes saw 3,497 applicants this year, marking a sharp increase from 2,629 in 2024–25.

PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal said, “Abandoning off-shore education in view of uncertainty looming large and opting for Punjab’s education for leveraging several academic opportunities is a positive sign.”

Dr Gosal observed that the university was not only diversifying agriculture but agricultural education as well, with the aim of reviving and retaining students’ interest in the profession. Highlighting employment and fiscal crises prevalent across the globe, the PAU V-C lauded the growing trend towards self-reliance through allied agri-business ventures such as food, fashion, engineering and AI-generated business models.

As global employment and economic instability continue to cast shadows over foreign study ambitions, students are increasingly favouring domestic options that offer both credibility and career potential.

“Preference for certainty on Indian soil over uncertainty on foreign soil is a beacon of hope for the Punjabis and their families. This year’s CET turnout signals more than academic interest—it reflects a new wave of confidence in building meaningful careers rooted in homegrown expertise,” he said.

“With so much uncertainty around studying abroad like visa delays, job insecurity, I felt it was smarter to invest in a future here. PAU offers great academic options and real career potential. I’m proud to be part of this shift back to our roots,” said Aakansha, an aspirant.

Ludhiana