This audio story, authored by Krishna Kumar, critically examines the trajectory of higher education in India, reflecting on the policy shifts from the Rajiv Gandhi era to the current BJP-led NDA regime. It explores the impact of demonetization, the rise of market-driven educational reforms, and the challenges faced by liberal arts education in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape. Krishna Kumar, a former Director of NCERT and author of Thank You, Gandhi, brings a seasoned perspective to the discussion, urging a reevaluation of educational priorities to ensure inclusivity and intellectual growth.