HEIs Progress in NIRF Ranking

The Ministry of Education highlighted the role of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), launched in 2015, in driving competition among higher‑education institutions. Applications rose from 6,272 in 2021 to 14,163 in 2025, and participating institutions grew from 4,030 to 7,692 (2021‑2025). Institutions appearing in the QS World University Rankings increased from 11 in 2015 to 52 in 2027. The government cited several schemes – RUSA/PM‑USHA, Institutions of Eminence, and the establishment of new IITs, IIMs and central universities – to improve quality, infrastructure and research. Financial allocations include Rs 555 crore for IIM Guwahati’s temporary campus and Rs 11,828.79 crore for research parks at five new IITs (May 2025).