IIT Delhi Becomes India’s Best University in QS Sustainability Rankings 2026
In a significant achievement for Indian higher education, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has been ranked as the top university in India in the QS Sustainability Rankings for 2026. This ranking highlights the growing emphasis on sustainability within educational institutions and reflects the commitment of IIT Delhi towards addressing global challenges.
Overview of the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026
The QS Sustainability Rankings for 2026 saw a total of 103 Indian institutions listed, showcasing India’s increasing representation in global sustainability efforts. Among these, 26 universities made their debut in the rankings. This positions India as the fourth largest contributor to the list, underscoring the country’s commitment to sustainability in higher education.
Global Rankings
Globally, Lund University in Sweden secured the top position among 2000 universities evaluated in the QS sustainability ranking. The United States leads the rankings with the highest number of universities represented, totaling 240. Following the US are China with 163 institutions, and the United Kingdom with 109. India, with its 103 universities, is making notable strides in this arena.
Top 10 Indian Universities in QS Sustainability Rankings 2026
Here is the list of the top 10 Indian universities according to the QS Sustainability Rankings for 2026:
- 1. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) – Score: 83.1
- 2. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) – Score: 81.4
- 3. Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) – Score: 81.3
- 4. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) – Score: 77.3
- 5. Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) – Score: 77.0
- 6. Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) – Score: 75.0
- 7. Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore – Score: 75.0
- 8. Indian Institute of Science (IISc Bengaluru) – Score: 70.5
- 9. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal – Score: 70.3
- 10. Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University) Varanasi – Score: 62.5
Methodology of the QS Sustainability Rankings
The QS Sustainability Rankings evaluate universities based on three primary categories:
- Environmental Impact: This includes metrics related to environmental research and sustainability education.
- Social Impact: This category assesses equality, employability, and health and well-being.
- Governance: The governance structures and policies that support sustainability initiatives are also evaluated.
The QS analysts utilized Scopus data for research metrics and conducted reputational surveys among academics and employees to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
Conclusion
The recognition of IIT Delhi as India’s leading university in the QS Sustainability Rankings for 2026 is a testament to the institution’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and education. As the global focus on sustainability intensifies, Indian universities are increasingly playing a vital role in shaping a sustainable future.
Note: The QS Sustainability Rankings are released annually and are based on a comprehensive analysis of various factors contributing to sustainability in higher education.
