Over the last decade and a half, India’s higher education system has undergone a period of significant transformation. With the global shift toward knowledge economies and digital innovation, institutions of higher learning are no longer only judged by their legacy or size, but also by their relevance, agility, and innovation. In this emerging context, new-age institutions—especially those established in the last 10–15 years—have started making an indelible mark on the academic map of the country.

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The “India’s Rising Institutions 2025” rankings initiative has been conceptualized as a landmark effort to recognize and celebrate these trailblazing young institutions. Spearheaded by Chronicles of India, this special issue and accompanying handbook represent more than just a ranking—it is a national call to recognize a new generation of educational leaders committed to academic excellence, societal responsibility, and global alignment.

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Historically, national rankings have primarily served established universities and institutes with decades, if not centuries, of data, networks, and reputational capital. As a result, many innovative new institutions—particularly private universities, state universities, and autonomous institutions launched post-2010—have remained invisible or underrepresented in mainstream evaluations. Despite their youth, many of these institutions have already achieved commendable milestones in research, pedagogy, graduate outcomes, and international collaborations.