BHUBANESWAR: NIT Rourkela has shown measurable progress in the ‘QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026’, securing a global rank of 652, with an improvement over last year’s 664.
In the 2026 edition, the institute stands at 180th in Asia and 20th in India under the QS sustainability framework. NIT Rourkela also retains its position as the top-ranked NIT in this ranking and continues to hold the highest rank in Odisha.
The QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 was released on November 18, 2025. It included participation from 2,002 institutions globally, 827 from Asia, and 103 from India, evaluated under the QS sustainability framework. The ranking evaluates the social and environmental impact of universities as centres of education and research.
Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao (Director, NIT Rourkela) said that the Institute’s improved standing reflects structured planning and the sustained efforts of the campus community.
He acknowledged the contributions of students, faculty, and staff engaged in sustainability-linked initiatives that enhance the Institute’s global visibility.
The Sustainability Report for 2026 was prepared by the Ranking & Accreditation Cell and the Sustainable Development Goals Committee under the guidance of Prof. HB Sahu (Chairman, Sustainable Development Committee).
“The institute’s performance reflects a range of initiatives throughout the year, such as weekly Clean Campus Swachhata activities, SDG-oriented curriculum efforts, and research addressing environmental and societal challenges. Support to sustainability-focused start-ups, efficient water–energy–waste management systems, solar energy usage, functioning of the carbon-capture unit, plantation drives, and awareness campaigns on health, well-being, and reduced plastic usage have all contributed to strengthening the Institute’s sustainability profile,” said Prof. HB Sahu.
Earlier this year, NIT Rourkela secured the 9th position in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) category of the NIRF 2025 rankings, emerging as the only NIT in the country and the only institution from Odisha to feature in the top 10 list.
ALSO READ: Over 100 Indian Institutions Figure In QS Sustainability Rankings
The Sustainability Rankings 2026 encompasses three core dimensions—Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance.
The QS Sustainability framework examines how effectively institutions address global challenges through education, research, innovation, and responsible institutional practices.
Beyond academic commitment alone, the methodology evaluates demonstrable outcomes aligned with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).