In a remarkable show of academic consistency, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has once again secured its position as the second-best university in India, according to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024. The rankings, announced by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, reflect the continued excellence of JNU, which also ranked 10th in the overall category among all Indian institutions.
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru has maintained its top position in the university rankings, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution in science and research. The NIRF, established by the Ministry of Education, evaluates institutions on several key parameters, including teaching, learning, resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach and inclusivity, and perception. These categories form the basis of the rankings, which are highly anticipated by educational institutions and prospective students alike.
NIRF Rankings 2024
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indian Institute of Science | Bengaluru |
| 2 | Jawaharlal Nehru University | New Delhi |
| 3 | Jamia Millia Islamia | New Delhi |
| 4 | Manipal Academy of Higher Education | Manipal |
| 5 | Banaras Hindu University | Varanasi |
| 6 | University of Delhi | New Delhi |
| 7 | Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham | Coimbatore |
| 8 | Aligarh Muslim University | Aligarh |
| 9 | Jadavpur University | Kolkata |
IISc Bengaluru Leads the Pack
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru continues to dominate the NIRF rankings, holding the top spot among universities. Renowned for its pioneering research and academic prowess, IISc’s position reflects its significant contributions to the field of science and technology. The institution’s continued success underscores the importance of sustained investment in research and innovation.
JNU’s Consistent Performance
JNU’s retention of the second rank among universities for consecutive years reaffirms its status as a leading center of higher education in India. The university has not only maintained its position but also continues to be a preferred choice for students seeking a robust academic environment. JNU’s overall 10th rank across all Indian institutions, including engineering and medical colleges, is a noteworthy achievement, highlighting its balanced focus on both academic rigor and inclusivity.
Jamia Millia Islamia Climbs the Ranks
Jamia Millia Islamia, another prominent institution based in New Delhi, has secured the third position among universities, marking its steady rise in the rankings. This year’s placement is a testament to Jamia’s growing reputation and commitment to academic excellence. The university has consistently improved its standing, moving up from the sixth position in previous years.
IITs Dominate the Overall Rankings
In the overall category, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) continue to showcase their dominance, with seven IITs—Madras, Bombay, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Roorkee, and Guwahati—figuring prominently in the top 10. This reflects the strong emphasis on engineering and technological education in India and the global recognition that IITs enjoy.
The NIRF Ranking Framework
The NIRF rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of institutions across five broad parameters: teaching, learning and resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach and inclusivity, and perception. These parameters are meticulously assessed to provide a holistic view of the performance of educational institutions across the country.
Implications for Students and Institutions
For students and academic institutions alike, the NIRF rankings serve as a critical benchmark. They guide prospective students in making informed decisions about their education, while institutions use these rankings to identify areas for improvement and to bolster their academic offerings. As India continues to evolve as a global educational hub, the importance of such rankings in shaping the future of higher education cannot be understated.
The consistent performance of institutions like IISc, JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia underscores the quality and diversity of higher education in India, offering students a wide range of opportunities to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.











