Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir secured the third rank among the state agriculture universities in the country under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), 2023 of the Union Ministry of Education announced Thursday.
Driven by its strong performance on various indicators like academic, research, innovation and outreach accomplishments, SKUAST-K has also emerged as 7th in Agriculture and Allied Sectors category, 36th in State Public University category, 75th in University category and 94th in overall category.
This marks significant improvement over last year’s ranking of 5th SAU and 10th overall agriculture and allied category. The progress has been driven by broad based developments in infrastructure, governance, student outcome, innovations and outreach. In the year 2025, SKUAST-K has crossed the 5000 mark in student community, established new academic programmes at UG, PG and PhD levels (AI, Economics & Data analysis, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Food technology, Agricultural chemicals, Organic Agriculture), developed new centres of excellence  and achieved outstanding research milestones including several firsts such as India’s first gene sheep, 10 yielding varieties, recombinant vaccines and stem cell based regenerative medicine. Our innovation portfolio has improved substantially with 46 patents in first 8 months of 2025 taking our total tally to 96.
This marks a remarkable rise from its 5th best SAU in 2024, consolidating SKUAST-K’s reputation as one of India’s fastest-emerging institutions of higher learning. This achievement also reflects the varsity’s transformation into a forward-focused, innovation-led farm University. With 95 patents (45 granted in 2025), the University has built a thriving ecosystem of research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Its inclusive and global learning environment, attracting 30% of students from outside J&K and a growing number from abroad, demonstrates its reputation as a preferred destination for agricultural education.
Vice Chancellor, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, acknowledged the collective efforts of faculty, students, staff and administration in achieving the ranking. He said that this achievement is the outcome of our shared vision, teamwork and commitment to reforms, innovation and translational research. He added that SKUAST-K has emerged as a model of NEP-2020 implementation, blending academics, entrepreneurship and international partnerships. Our focus on innovation-led growth, sustainable agriculture and global connectivity has placed us in the league of India’s elite universities. This ranking is not just recognition; it is a responsibility to continue leading transformation in education and research. I am confident SKUAST-K will soon emerge as the country’s top agricultural university with global recognition, said Prof Ganai.
The SKUAST-K’s growth and progress was well appreciated and celebrated at the University’s 6th Convocation held recently on July 4, 2025 at its Shalimar Campus where dignitaries lauded its growth trajectory and national recognition. Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, praised the University’s national standing, saying that “SKUAST-Kashmir has become a torchbearer of India’s agricultural transformation. Its ability to combine research excellence with inclusivity and innovation ensures that agriculture serves the future needs of society.” Lieutenant Governor of J&K and Chancellor of the University, Shri Manoj Sinha, remarked that “This University is not just an academic institution but a symbol of New India’s aspirations. SKUAST-K has emerged as a brand name in agricultural education, preparing youth to be leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs. Its achievements strengthen UT's journey towards self-reliance and prosperity.” Chief Minister of J&K UT, Omar Abdullah, highlighted the pride it brings to the region. He said that the rise of SKUAST-Kashmir is a proud moment for every citizen of Jammu & Kashmir. It showcases the talent, dedication and vision of our academic community and inspires confidence that our UT can lead in areas of knowledge, sustainability and innovation.”