Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the remarkable progress of Indian universities in the QS World University Rankings, attributing this success to the concerted efforts of students, faculty, and institutions over the past decade. Emphasizing a decade-long focus on qualitative changes in the education sector, PM Modi expressed his aspiration to further enhance research and innovation in his next term.
India has achieved an impressive 318 percent increase in its representation in the rankings over the past decade, the highest growth among G20 nations. This notable progress is seen as a testament to the nation’s commitment to elevating its higher education sector and global academic standing.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated, ‘Over the last decade, we have focused on qualitative changes in the education sector. This is reflected in the QS World University Rankings. Compliments to the students, faculty, and institutions for their hard work and dedication. In this term, we want to do even more to boost research and innovation.’
The recently released QS World University Ranking 2025, by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), highlighted significant advancements by Indian institutions. Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) Bombay and Delhi have secured positions among the top 150 universities globally. IIT Bombay notably improved its rank from 149 to 118, climbing 31 spots, while IIT Delhi advanced 47 positions to attain the 150th spot.
On the global stage, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) continues to hold the top position for the 13th consecutive year.
Delhi University (DU) also earned recognition, securing the 44th position globally for the employability of its graduates in the category of employment outcomes. India now boasts the third-largest representation in Asia in terms of ranked universities, trailing only Japan with 49 universities and China (Mainland) with 71 universities.
The QS statement indicated that 61 percent of Indian universities have improved their ranks, 24 percent have maintained their positions, 9 percent have experienced a decline, and three universities have entered the rankings for the first time. Furthermore, 37 Indian universities have demonstrated enhanced performance in Citations per Faculty, highlighting a growing impact of research output.
