Factors Involving Declining Trend in Commerce Education in Rajasthan Higher Education

This study investigates the 56% decline in commerce student enrolment in Rajasthan between 2014 and 2026. The authors identify a significant structural gap between the state's traditional curriculum structure and the modern industrial landscape. By comparing Rajasthan with economically vibrant states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the research reveals that students align their academic choices with local market trends. Rajasthan’s lower foreign investment and export-driven activities limit visible corporate paths. The paper advocates for immediate action: restructuring higher education by launching apprenticeship-embedded programmes and establishing early school-based career guidance cells.