Jadavpur University Soars to No. 1 in West Bengal, Visva-Bharati Plummets

In a positive development for West Bengal's education landscape, Jadavpur University has emerged as the top-ranked state public university in the latest National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) figures. The Kolkata-based institution has secured the 18th position in the Overall category, a matter of pride for the university.

However, the news is not as uplifting for Visva-Bharati University, the only central university in West Bengal. The institution founded by Rabindranath Tagore has seen a sharp decline in its ranking, plunging into the 151-200 band after a steady downward trend over the years. The University of Calcutta has also experienced a downslide, though not as severe as Visva-Bharati.

Jadavpur University's excellent ranking is particularly noteworthy as the institution has been functioning under severe infrastructural constraints. Professor Sayantan Dasgupta, a former student of the university, attributes the achievement to the institution's vibrant academic and research culture, as well as the dedication of its faculty, administration, and students. The university's commitment to academic social responsibility, interdisciplinary approach, and innovative outreach activities have also contributed to its success.

Despite the paucity of funds and vacant posts, Jadavpur University continues to excel in various fields, including science, technology, humanities, and management, while also contributing to social amelioration and cutting-edge technological innovation. This resilience and commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as well as its engagement with emerging interdisciplinary fields, have set Jadavpur University apart as a unique institution.