Global ambitions drive foreign language boom in Ludhiana city

As Ludhiana deepens its global ties in trade and commerce, residents are increasingly turning to foreign languages as keys to new opportunities. From engineers to entrepreneurs, the city’s appetite for European languages is no longer just academic—it’s economic, cultural and aspirational.

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Dr Harpreet Bains, Associate Professor of foreign languages at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), believes the growing curiosity in languages like French, Spanish and Portuguese reflects Ludhiana’s expanding global footprint.

“French remains the most sought-after foreign language here,” Bains noted. “It shares roots with English, which makes it easier for students. Every year, nearly 300 enroll in our French courses.”

While Ludhiana has a long-standing tradition of teaching German, French and Russian, newer entrants like Italian and Portuguese are gaining traction.

“With bicycle parts heading to West Africa and Latin America, and woollen goods to former Soviet countries, languages like Russian, French and Spanish have become tools of trade,” she explained.

PAU was a pioneer in this shift, launching a certificate course in French in 2005. With rising demand, a Diploma was introduced in 2010.

“Learning French was a game-changer. Now, whether I’m pitching to clients in Paris or navigating meetings in Brussels, I speak their language—not just literally, but professionally. It’s made every international trip smoother and more impactful,” shares Amit Verma, a businessman from Ludhiana.

Private institutes are also witnessing a surge in enrolments. “Earlier, students viewed French as an optional skill. Now, they see it as an investment,” said Simran Kaur, a French instructor at a Ludhiana-based language academy. “We’re seeing schoolchildren, professionals and even retired individuals joining classes.”

For many, language learning opens doors—from immigration and pursuing higher education abroad to jobs in call centres and tourism. “I’m learning Spanish to boost my prospects in international hospitality,” said Ananya Malhotra, a hotel management student. “It’s a beautiful language, and I feel more connected to the world now.”

Even homemakers are finding a new rhythm through language. “I had time on my hands and always loved languages. This course gave me a new sense of purpose,” said Neelam Sharma, a recent French certificate holder.

As Bains put it, “Languages are no longer electives—they’re essentials. With Ludhiana’s global rise, the demand will only grow.” Quoting a French proverb, she smiled, “Though the entire army fights and wins the battle, the credit always goes to the general.”