Bangalore: The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has ranked first among all Indian educational institutes in research achievements over the past decade, retaining its top position in the latest National Institute Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings.
The institute scored 85 percentage points to clinch the first position. Jawaharlal Nehru University has ranked second, followed by Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Jamia Millia Islamia in the third and fourth positions, respectively.
Outlining a methodology to rank academic institutions on their excellence in research and education, the Ministry of Education accepted and launched the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) nearly ten years ago. Unlike previous years, 2025 marked the first time the NIRF used a negative marking criterion for research paper retraction.
In 2023-2024, the IISc handled 300 consultancy projects, generating over Rs 200 crore. In the same period, the institute undertook over 1,000 sponsored projects, supported by roughly 200 funding agencies. Moreover, IISc boasts vast library resources, valued at more than Rs 200 crore. According to the NIRF document, more than 80 percent of IISC is also disability accessible.
The institute’s focus on advanced research training and its successes, such as 400 full-time PhD students graduating from IISC in 2025, highlight the role it plays as a leading centre for research, innovation, and higher education in India.
However, in the NIRF form, the institute admitted that it has, so far, not taken any steps towards clean energy and waste management on the campus.
On the other hand, the new Tata IISc Medical School, which is yet to begin its operations, is set to add to IISC’s research credentials. It aims to explore cutting-edge avenues in research and innovation through advanced vaccine technology and explore rare genetic disorders to enable personalised treatment, according to the institute. The hospital will also open to the public. An announcement on the exact date is awaited.
(Edited by Madhurita Goswami)