New Delhi: PhysicsWallah is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Drishti IAS for Rs 2,500-3,000 crore. If finalized, this would be one of the largest acquisitions in India’s edtech sector, strengthening PhysicsWallah‘s push into offline coaching.
PhysicsWallah Expands Offline Coaching as IPO Nears
The potential acquisition is part of PhysicsWallah’s broader strategy to expand its offline footprint, particularly in the UPSC coaching segment. The Noida-based edtech unicorn has been aggressively scaling its hybrid coaching centers as it prepares for an initial public offering (IPO). Recently, PhysicsWallah appointed three independent directors and is reportedly aiming to raise $500 million at a $5 billion valuation.
Drishti IAS, founded by Vikas Divyakirti, has been a key player in UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) coaching for 26 years. In FY24, the institute reported Rs 405 crore in revenue and Rs 90 crore in profit. Its Mukherjee Nagar center in Delhi contributes 58 per cent of its revenue, with other centers in Prayagraj, Jaipur, and Karol Bagh.
Despite reports of an imminent acquisition, Drishti IAS CEO Vivek Tiwari denied the claims, stating that while the company has engaged in discussions with various investors and industry stakeholders, no deal has been finalized. Queries sent to PhysicsWallah remain unanswered.
What This Means for India’s Edtech Sector
If the acquisition goes through, it will signal a major shift in India’s edtech industry, with PhysicsWallah integrating online and offline models across multiple exam categories.
As the sector faces increasing competition and funding challenges, large-scale consolidations like this could redefine the landscape of competitive exam coaching in India.
Also Read –
Discussion about this post