Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has underlined the need for greater transparency and objectivity in India’s premier ranking and accreditation systems, declaring that “no institution is sacrosanct” in a democracy.

Speaking at The Hindu Mind recently, Pradhan said the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) enjoy full autonomy from the Union government, but stressed that independence must be coupled with accountability.

“Democracy thrives in an accountable society. They are autonomous, but they have to improve in their governance,” he said, adding that credibility of rankings depends on openness and fairness.

Pradhan acknowledged shortcomings in parameters such as the perception criteria in NIRF rankings, but framed his criticism as a push for reform rather than dissatisfaction. “The government is the custodian of students and society. These institutions are doing good work, but they must evolve. It is a governance issue,” he said.

Tracing the origins of NIRF, the minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with envisioning a national ranking mechanism, which was formally established in 2016. “It is maturing, it is developing now. Making a viewpoint is not expressing dissatisfaction—it is an indication for improvement,” he noted.

On global benchmarks, Pradhan welcomed the “quantum jump” of Indian institutions in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world rankings, while dismissing concerns over foreign dependence. On recent U.S. visa restrictions for Indian students, he said, “We have to cope with changing geopolitical situations. India is not dependent upon any foreign institution.”

Odisha and BJP leadership

Turning to politics in his home state, Pradhan asserted that the BJP is poised to emerge as a lasting force in Odisha. “From scratch, the BJP has grown into a ruling party with 40% vote. We will be a formidable force for the long run,” he said.

On speculation about him being in the race for BJP national president, he dismissed suggestions of jockeying for the post. “This is not a party of a few families. It is a democratic, cadre-based party. Leadership will decide at the appropriate time,” he said, while praising J.P. Nadda for leading the BJP to victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.