The Ministry of Education’s innovation cell has recently unveiled the 2021 Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA). This initiative, which started in 2019, ranks higher educational institutions and universities in India based on indicators related to “Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development.” In this article, we will delve into the details of this ranking process, its significance, and other related rankings.
Introduction to ARIIA
The Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) is a joint effort by the Ministry of Education and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). It aims to systematically rank all major higher education institutions and universities in India. The core focus of ARIIA is on the quality rather than the quantity of innovations. It measures the actual impact created by these innovations nationally and globally.
Evaluation Parameters of ARIIA
ARIIA evaluates institutions on various aspects, such as Budget & Funding Support, Infrastructure & Facilities, and Awareness, Promotions, and support for Idea Generation & Innovation. Additionally, Promotion & Support for Entrepreneurship Development, Innovative Learning Methods & Courses, Intellectual Property Generation, Technology Transfer & Commercialization, and Innovation in Governance of the Institution are also considered.
Rank Categorisation in ARIIA
The rankings are classified into two categories: Technical and Non-Technical. The technical category further includes five sub-categories, while the non-technical category includes two subcategories. This division allows the fair and relevant comparison of institutes.
Top Institutes in ARIIA 2021 Ranking
In the 2021 ARIIA ranking, top institutions included IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, and IIT Delhi in the technical category. Meanwhile, in the non-technical category, the Indira Gandhi National Open University and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India ranked highly.
Significance of ARIIA Ranking
ARIIA Rankings play a significant role in inspiring Indian institutions to foster ecosystems that encourage high-quality research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, with the recently announced New Educational Policy 2020, these efforts are set to become more effective and efficient, creating a significant impact in the long run.
India’s Progress on Global Innovation Index (GII)
India has shown consistent improvements on the Global Innovation Index (GII), raising its position from 81st in 2015 to 46th in 2021. The country has also emerged as the world’s third-largest startup hub, reflecting its growing innovative and entrepreneurial DNA.
Other Rankings for Higher Education and Universities
Apart from ARIIA, there are other significant rankings for higher education institutions and universities. These include India Rankings 2021 by the Ministry of Education, QS World University Rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), and World University Ranking by Times Higher Education (THE).
