Global benchmarks: How India is performing Despite challenges, India is making strides on the global stage:In the QS World University Rankings 2026, India achieved its highest ever representation — 54 Indian institutions featured in the list, up from just 11 in 2014. This is the strongest growth among G20 nations and places India fourth worldwide in terms of institutions represented, behind only the US, UK and China. IIT Delhi leads Indian representation at 123rd globally; other IITs and institutions also rose in reputational metrics and research citations. In the QS Asia Rankings 2026, seven Indian universities placed among the top 100, with IIT Delhi ranked 59th. Beyond QS, data suggests India may soon be second-most represented in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, signalling rising global visibility.

Source: Economic Times March 18, 2026 06:38 UTC