Role of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)’ Socio-Economic Scheme in Enhancing International Understanding: A Study among International Students in India
Sayed Anwar Hussaini *
Department of Business Administration – TTM, Mangalore University, India.
P. D. Joseph
Department of Business Administration – TTM, Mangalore University, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In the contemporary globalized world, international understanding and cross-cultural cooperation have become essential for peaceful coexistence among nations. The primary objective of this study was to examine the role of ICCR’s socio-economic schemes in promoting international understanding among international students studying in India. The study aimed to evaluate how ICCR’s support mechanisms, including scholarships, financial assistance, and welfare initiatives, impacted students’ cultural integration, academic experience, and perception of India as a host nation. The researcher employed a mixed-methods approach, adopting a descriptive and explanatory research design to achieve the research objectives. Random sampling was used, and the sample consisted of 373 international students receiving ICCR scholarships in India. The data collection technique employed was a questionnaire, and the data were analyzed and the hypothesis tested using SPSS. The findings demonstrated that the ICCR socio-economic scheme fostered international understanding by providing international students with meaningful cultural exposure, enhancing their intercultural communication skills, and enabling them to appreciate India’s diversity.
Keywords: ICCR’s socio-economic scheme, international students, international understanding, cultural diplomacy, soft power