In response to the growing complexity of business challenges, India is recognizing the importance of strategic design education. This approach transcends traditional design aesthetics, focusing instead on integrating design thinking with business strategy to foster innovation. As sectors like energy, fintech, and healthcare evolve, the need for professionals who can navigate complexity and drive innovation is paramount. To address this, Indian design education must undergo significant reforms, incorporating elements such as entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical industry engagement. By benchmarking against global institutions known for their strategic design programs, Indian schools can enhance their curricula and prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce. Ultimately, this evolution in education aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of thinking systemically and innovating responsibly.