NEW DELHI: The Australian government has officially denied recent media reports claiming it had banned or restricted student visa applications from certain Indian states such as Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.

In a statement released by the Australian High Commission in New Delhi, a spokesperson clarified, “The assertion that student applications from specific Indian states are being banned or restricted is incorrect.” The official emphasized that visa applications from Indian students are being processed as usual, in line with global visa processing standards.

Currently, over 125,000 Indian students are enrolled in Australian institutions, making Indian nationals the second-largest international student group in the country. The spokesperson highlighted that Australia highly values the presence and contribution of Indian students, both academically and socially, and continues to encourage educational ties between the two nations.

The clarification comes after a wave of concern sparked by media reports suggesting that Australia had joined countries like the United States and Canada in tightening immigration measures for Indian students. The reports had mentioned that some Australian universities were allegedly suspending or putting a hold on applications from the six mentioned Indian states.

These claims created confusion and anxiety among aspiring students and education consultants across India, particularly in Gujarat, which is a major source of students applying to Australian universities.

To put all speculation to rest, Australian authorities have reassured Indian students that there is no state-wise ban or visa restriction in place and that all applications will continue to be considered fairly.

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