In a landmark moment for Indian higher education, Amrita University has secured a Top 50 global position in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, which evaluate universities worldwide for their progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With an overall global rank of 41, Amrita has emerged as India’s highest SDG impact university, redefining the role of academia in shaping a sustainable future. This is Amrita’s fifth year in a row as the country’s #1 institution and brings it from the world’s top 100 to top 50.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings are the world’s only performance tables that assess universities against the full range of the UN SDGs, using carefully calibrated indicators to measure research, outreach, teaching, and stewardship. The rankings go beyond academic metrics to reflect real-world impact.
Amrita also ranked:
- 5th globally for SDG 4 – Quality Education
- 6th globally for SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- 14th globally for SDG 5 – Gender Equality
- 29th globally for SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
- 63rd globally for SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- 66th globally for SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
- 88th globally for SDG 13 – Climate Action
This year’s Impact Rankings were the most competitive ever, with over 2,540 universities from 130 countries. Among them, India emerged as the most represented nation with 148 institutions, yet Amrita stood apart—recognized for its deep-rooted impact, transformational research, and a mission-led approach to global challenges.
At the heart of this success is Amma’s vision as Chancellor to harmonize compassion, science, and service. Amrita’s model is built on this foundation, integrating world-class academics with ground-level impact.
“This global recognition is a testament to our commitment to compassion-driven innovation. We are not just building universities. We are co-creating resilient communities and sustainable futures,” said Dr. Maneesha V. Ramesh.
Dr. Ramesh is Amrita’s Provost, UNESCO Chair On Experiential Learning For Sustainable Innovation & Development, and Dean at Amrita School for Sustainable Futures.
Powering Progress Through Data and Impact
Amrita earned perfect scores (100/100) in several critical metrics:
- Lifelong learning initiatives
- University spin-offs and innovation translation
- Women’s progress and student access
- Clean energy and water sustainability programs
- Education for SDGs and community engagement
Live-in-Labs®: Innovation Beyond the Classroom
Much of the ranking is a result of Amrita’s flagship Live-in-Labs®. Students spend time in impoverished villages as part of their education. This firsthand experience not only helps them grasp the issues the poor confront, but also kindles compassion, inspiring them to find solutions.
Amrita University initiated the internship program in 2013 which includes participants from across India and around the world. Undergrad students spend up to two weeks in the villages. PhD students live what totals a year over the course of their studies.
To date, it has delivered 150+ real-world projects across 25 Indian states, impacting over one million people—from clean water to rural electrification to healthcare access. The World Economic Forum recently highlighted Amrita’s approach as a model for sustainability-focused education that blends traditional wisdom with advanced science.
