Hyderabad: Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday hailed South India as the growth engine of the country, citing its deep knowledge base, historical strengths, and the relentless hard work of its people. Addressing the media at the BJP state office, he said, “The South is an ideal for the rest of the country. It is ahead in many areas, and its progress is a matter of national pride.”Highlighting the South’s economic and intellectual contributions, Pradhan said the five southern states are at the forefront of the country’s transition to a knowledge-based economy, especially through the rise of global capability centres (GCCs). “Andhra Pradesh has envisioned a quantum valley. Bengaluru is the heart of startup India. Hyderabad is rapidly emerging as a tech hub. Tamil Nadu leads in manufacturing, and Kerala boasts maritime strength,” he said. “Southern India is entrepreneurial, knowledgeable, and will continue to lead India’s development journey,” he said.When questioned about concerns over delimitation potentially reducing constituencies in the South, Pradhan clarified that no formula has been finalised. “There’s no benchmark yet. The census and caste census will take place first. Meanwhile, the women’s reservation bill will be implemented,” he said. Responding indirectly to Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin’s recent remarks, he said, “Some leaders seem to want to stir up a pseudo war. But home minister Amit Shah has made it clear—no state will lose its rights.”Education reformsPradhan also praised the South for its leadership in education. “Southern states are taking bold steps. Sammakka Sarakka Tribal University has begun operations. IITs in Tirupati and Palakkad are progressing well. Liverpool University will soon open in Bengaluru. South India, along with Maharashtra and Gujarat, stands tall in education and innovation.”He emphasised the need to open up higher education to foreign universities and increase institutional autonomy. “By 2035, we aim to raise the gross enrolment ratio from 27% to 50%. That means more universities, and not just from the government. Already, 75% of students in government institutions are on free seats. Those who can afford it are choosing private options, but we must expand capacity,” he added.Speaking on the performance of the Modi govt, Pradhan said, “India has come a long way—from being one of the ‘fragile five’ economies to ranking among the world’s top four. This was made possible through good governance and the people’s support. There’s more to achieve, and we’re committed to delivering it.”