Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), a distinguished Indian university, recently marked its 104th anniversary, celebrating a rich legacy rooted in India’s freedom movement.
Founded on October 29, 1920, JMI originated during a historic moment when Mahatma Gandhi called for the boycott of British-supported educational institutions. A group of nationalist teachers and students left Aligarh Muslim University and established Jamia Millia, initially in Aligarh, before it eventually moved to Delhi.
The university’s name, which translates to “National University” in Urdu, reflects its foundational purpose. JMI was one of four institutions established in 1920 to promote nationalist education, alongside Kashi Vidyapeeth in Varanasi, Bihar Vidyapeeth in Bihar, and Gujarat Vidyapeeth in Gujarat. JMI thrived during the Non-Cooperation and Khilafat movements, becoming a vital educational hub. However, its financial stability faltered when these movements concluded, leaving the university in a severe financial crisis by 1924.
In response, Vice Chancellor Hakim Ajmal Khan, along with freedom fighters Dr. Mukhtar Ansari and Abdul Majeed Khwaja, sought Mahatma Gandhi’s support to save the institution. Gandhi, dedicated to the survival of JMI, even offered to beg on its behalf, famously declaring he would go door-to-door if needed. With his encouragement, the university relocated to Delhi’s Karol Bagh in 1925, and supporters rallied to preserve its mission.
JMI was declared a deemed university in 1962 and gained central university status in 1988. Today, the institution stands as a leading academic center, offering a diverse range of programs, including 56 PhD courses, 80 Master’s degrees, 15 postgraduate diplomas, 56 undergraduate programs, and numerous diploma and certificate courses. Jamia Millia Islamia’s enduring legacy continues to impact Indian education, upholding the values upon which it was built.