Ministry of Education Explores Replicating Auroville’s Socio-Economic Model Nationwide

Puducherry – May 19, 2025

In a significant recognition of Auroville’s impact, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, is exploring the possibility of replicating Auroville’s unique socio-economic model across the country—particularly in areas related to skill development, integral education, and eco-conscious entrepreneurship.

This initiative follows a three-day visit by Ms. Aanchal Katiyar, Media and Communication Officer at the Press Information Bureau (PIB) under the Ministry of Education. Her visit was aimed at documenting Auroville’s grassroots efforts and engaging with stakeholders who represent the township’s distinctive philosophy of conscious living and self-sustained progress.

Engaging with Auroville’s Pioneers

During her visit, Ms. Katiyar interacted with:

1. Officials from the Auroville Foundation Office
2. Members of the Auroville Town Development Council (ATDC)
3. Educators and coordinators at the Sri Aurobindo International Institute of Educational Research (SAIIER)

She also toured several of Auroville’s renowned enterprises, including Swaram, known for its blend of artisanal craftsmanship and community innovation.

These interactions revealed the depth of Auroville’s integrated approach to education, economy, and ecology—a model that has been organically evolving since the township’s founding in 1968, based on the vision of The Mother and Sri Aurobindo.

Model for India’s Future?

Ms. Katiyar expressed admiration for the sustainable business practices, creative skill training, and community-centric entrepreneurship witnessed during her visit. She proposed that these models could be extended beyond Auroville through:

1. School outreach and vocational training programs
2. Public awareness campaigns
3. Digital storytelling and social media engagement
4. Partnerships with educational and entrepreneurial platforms

“By using social media, digital storytelling, and media partnerships, we can bring Auroville’s exemplary work to the attention of educators, policymakers, young entrepreneurs, and civil society across India,”

— Ms. Aanchal Katiyar, PIB, Ministry of Education

Auroville: A Living Example

Auroville stands today as a living laboratory of human unity, showcasing how economic models can be value-driven, non-hierarchical, and ecologically responsible. Its network of small-scale enterprises, alternative education, and community governance continues to inspire national and international bodies.

As the Ministry of Education considers integrating Auroville’s practices into broader policy frameworks, this collaboration may pave the way for a more compassionate, skilled, and sustainable India—in line with the Amrit Kaal vision of development with dignity.