
Top 10 NIRF-Ranked Research Institutions in India 2025
Research drives progress, from innovation in technology to advancements in healthcare. In India, top research institutions lead the way, solving real-world problems and shaping the future.
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), by the Ministry of Education, ranks institutions based on research output and quality. With the release of the 2025 rankings, this blog will cover the top 10 research institutions in India, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the field. We will also share the complete list of NIRF-ranked research Institutions in 2025.
What is NIRF?
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at ranking higher education institutions across India.
NIRF evaluates institutions based on key parameters like teaching quality, resources, research output, and student outcomes. It provides a comprehensive assessment to help students make informed decisions about their education.
For research rankings, NIRF considers the following parameters:
- Research Quality: Measures the institution’s research output, including the impact of published papers, patents, and innovations.
- PhD Output: Evaluates the number of PhD degrees awarded, reflecting the institution’s contribution to advanced academic research.
- Industry Collaboration: Assesses partnerships between the institution and industries, which contribute to practical research applications and real-world impact.
- Citations: Look at the number of citations received by research papers, indicating the global impact and recognition of the institution’s research.
Top 10 NIRF-Ranked Research Institutions in 2025
Rank 1: Jamia Hamdard
- Location: New Delhi, Delhi
- NIRF Score: 86.59
- Key Highlights: Jamia Hamdard is a leader in pharmaceutical education and research, with a strong focus on innovative health sciences. The university excels in areas such as drug discovery, pharmacology, and healthcare research. Its state-of-the-art research facilities, combined with industry collaborations, allow for cutting-edge advancements in healthcare.
Rank 2: Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS), Pilani
- Location: Pilani, Rajasthan
- NIRF Score: 82.28
- Key Highlights: BITS Pilani is renowned for its cutting-edge research in engineering, technology, and sciences. The institute is a leader in areas such as robotics, renewable energy, and material science. With a strong emphasis on innovation, BITS Pilani fosters a collaborative research environment supported by world-class labs and global industry partnerships.
Rank 3: Panjab University, Chandigarh
- Location: Chandigarh, Punjab
- NIRF Score: 76.39
- Key Highlights: Panjab University is known for its diverse research output, excelling in fields such as natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The university has made significant contributions to research in areas like biotechnology, environmental science, and law.
Rank 4: JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty
- Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- NIRF Score: 76.14
- Key Highlights: JSS College of Pharmacy in Ooty specializes in pharmaceutical research, offering state-of-the-art facilities and training. The college is known for its cutting-edge research in areas such as drug formulation, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Rank 5: National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad
- Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
- NIRF Score: 75.64
- Key Highlights: NIPER Hyderabad focuses on advanced pharmaceutical education and cutting-edge research in the healthcare sector. The institute is renowned for its research in drug discovery, pharmaceutical sciences, and biotechnology. With world-class laboratories and a collaborative research environment, NIPER Hyderabad is at the forefront of developing innovative healthcare solutions.
Rank 6: Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- NIRF Score: 74.77
- Key Highlights: ICT Mumbai is a premier institute for research in chemical engineering, technology, and applied sciences. Known for its pioneering work in chemical process engineering, material science, and sustainable energy, the institute offers cutting-edge research opportunities.
Rank 7: JSS College of Pharmacy, Mysore
- Location: Mysore, Karnataka
- NIRF Score: 73.38
- Key Highlights: JSS College of Pharmacy in Mysore is known for its excellence in pharmaceutical sciences and research. The institution specializes in drug discovery, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical technology, with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge research.
Rank 8: Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal
- Location: Manipal, Karnataka
- NIRF Score: 73.25
- Key Highlights: Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences is dedicated to quality research in pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare. The institute focuses on innovative research in drug formulation, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology. With state-of-the-art research facilities and a strong emphasis on clinical research, it bridges the gap between academia and industry.
Rank 9: National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali
- Location: Mohali, Punjab
- NIRF Score: 70.96
- Key Highlights: NIPER Mohali specializes in research and education in pharmaceutical sciences and related fields. The institute is renowned for its advanced research in drug design, pharmaceutical technology, and biotechnology. With cutting-edge laboratories and strong industry links, NIPER Mohali focuses on translating research into practical healthcare solutions.
Rank 10: S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
- Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- NIRF Score: 70.84
- Key Highlights: S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) is known for its strong research output in science, technology, and engineering disciplines. The institute focuses on innovative research in areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy.
Why Choose NIRF-Ranked Research Institutions?
High Research Standards
NIRF-ranked institutions maintain rigorous academic and research standards, offering students access to world-class faculty, advanced research facilities, and cutting-edge resources. These institutions are at the forefront of scientific discoveries and technological advancements.
Global Opportunities
Being part of top NIRF-ranked research institutions opens doors to global collaborations, internships, and research opportunities. These institutions have strong ties with international universities and industries, allowing students to gain exposure and enhance their global career prospects.
Related Article: Top 10 NIRF-Ranked Management Colleges/Universities in 2025
Affordable Education with Fellowships
Many NIRF-ranked research institutions offer competitive and affordable education options, along with fellowships and scholarships. These financial aids help students pursue high-quality education without the burden of heavy expenses, making higher education more accessible to a broader range of students.
Conclusion
We examined the top 10 NIRF-ranked research institutions in India for 2025, including notable names such as Jamia Hamdard, BITS Pilani, and NIPER Mohali. These institutions are leaders in their fields, offering world-class research opportunities in pharmaceutical sciences, technology, and healthcare.
NIRF rankings are crucial for prospective students and researchers as they highlight institutions with high research standards, global collaborations, and excellent educational resources.