IITs, IIMs, and key institutes of national importance in Odisha; know details

In recent years, Odisha has emerged as a significant hub for higher education and research in India, housing a diverse range of national institutes that cater to engineering, management, medical, and scientific disciplines.

The state boasts one of each of the major institutions of national importance, which not only enhance Odisha’s academic landscape but also play a pivotal role in research, innovation, and skill development across the country.

Each of these institutions contributes uniquely to the state’s educational ecosystem, offering specialised courses, advanced research opportunities, and collaborations that align with national priorities in science, technology, law, and healthcare.

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar

Established in 2008, IIT Bhubaneswar is among the newer IITs in India and is located in the Khordha district near Bhubaneswar.

The institute offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across engineering, sciences, and humanities.

IIT Bhubaneswar has recently collaborated with the Indian Army to explore advancements in Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, aiming to enhance defence capabilities and operational readiness.

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur

Founded in 2015, IIM Sambalpur focuses on postgraduate and doctoral management education. Situated in the city of Sambalpur, the institute is recognised for fostering innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship among students.

Its programs are designed to develop managers capable of addressing contemporary business challenges while upholding ethical and inclusive practices.

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National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela

NIT Rourkela, originally established in 1961 as a Regional Engineering College and upgraded to an NIT in 2002, is located in Rourkela. Offering programs in engineering, science, and management, the institute is known for its strong research culture.

Recently, researchers at NIT Rourkela developed eco-friendly antibacterial agents derived from plant extracts, highlighting the institute’s commitment to sustainable scientific solutions.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar

Since its establishment in 2012, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has been a premier medical education and healthcare provider in eastern India. The institute provides undergraduate and postgraduate medical education while offering advanced healthcare services.

Recently, AIIMS inaugurated a Centre for Neuromodulation Services in its Department of Psychiatry, introducing innovative, non-invasive treatments for patients with drug-resistant psychiatric disorders.

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Berhampur

Established in 2016, IISER Berhampur focuses on undergraduate and postgraduate education and research in the sciences.

The institute aims to develop strong foundational knowledge in scientific principles while promoting cutting-edge research, cultivating a new generation of scientists prepared to address global challenges.

Other Major National Institutes in Odisha

The National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, under the Department of Atomic Energy, promotes advanced research and recently inaugurated the National Centre for Animal Research and Experimentation (NCARE), enhancing biomedical research capabilities.

IIIT Bhubaneswar, a state-funded institution, offers specialised IT education and research opportunities, while NLUO, Cuttack, established in 2008, provides premier law education and training.

With this network of premier institutes and ongoing administrative reforms, Odisha is positioning itself as a leading centre of academic excellence and research innovation, contributing significantly to India’s broader educational and scientific development.