The Ministry of Education has released the much-awaited 10th edition of National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) list 2025. Among the most closely followed lists, the State Public Universities category has a major shift.
According to this year's rankings which evaluated schools in 17 different categories—including engineering management medicine law pharmacy research and the recently added Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) category,India is becoming more and more aligned with international academic standards.
There was a significant change in the State Public Universities category which is one of the most closely watched lists. Jadavpur University topped the list, after moving up from second place in 2024, has surpassed Anna University which dropped to second place. The category highlights how well-established state-funded educational institutions have continuously supported affordable high-quality education throughout India.
Top 10 state universities
Jadavpur University, Kolkata
Anna University, Chennai
Punjab University, Chandigarh
Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam
Kerala University, Thiruvananthapuram
Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin
Osmania University, Hyderabad
University of Kashmir, Srinagar
Gauhati University, Guwahati
Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
Five main criteria are used by NIRF to assess institutions: perception, outreach and inclusivity, graduation outcomes, research and professional practice, and teaching and learning. Because they show how regional universities are competing nationally, providing affordable education while thriving in research and innovation, the rankings are especially significant for state universities.
Dharmendra Pradhan shared a tweet from the press conference of NIRF, "Delighted to release the 'India Rankings 2025' under National Institutional Ranking Framework along with @DrSukantaBJP ji.
#NIRF2025 rankings reflect the strength of our institutions and the promise of our students. Heartily congratulate all the institutions featured in this year's rankings. Glad that #NIRF has become a national benchmark today"
The NIRF state public university rankings enhance the visibility of these universities by highlighting academic excellence outside of central institutions. This promotes healthy competition, increased accountability and better options for students throughout India's higher education system.
