GIET University
GIET University, officially known as Gandhi Institute of Engineering and Technology University, is a private university located in Gunupur, Rayagada district, Odisha, India. Established in 1997 by the Vidya Bharati Educational Trust, it initially functioned as an engineering college and was elevated to full university status in 2018 through an act passed by the Odisha Legislative Assembly, with inclusion in the UGC list under Section 2(f) and 12(B) in 2019.[1][2] The university provides a diverse array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines, including engineering (such as B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Electronics & Communication, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Information Technology), management (BBA, MBA), computer applications (BCA, MCA), sciences (B.Sc in Agriculture, Nursing, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), pharmacy (B.Pharm, M.Pharm), and humanities (B.A., M.A.).[3][4] Its curriculum emphasizes industry-relevant skills, research, and global standards, with approvals from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for agriculture programs and the Indian Nursing Council for nursing.[1][5] GIET University holds approvals from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) since its inception.[6] It has earned accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with an A+ grade (CGPA 3.28/4.00) in its second cycle, valid from 2022 to 2027.[6] Additionally, all six B.Tech programs are accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) for multiple cycles, with the latest validity from 2022 to 2025, and the university is recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) as a scientific and industrial research organization.[1][6] In terms of rankings, GIET University secured a position in the 201-300 band in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 for engineering institutions.[7] It was honored as the “Best University in Eastern India” for campus placements at the Asia Education Summit 2020, reflecting its strong industry ties and placement outcomes, with over 90% placement rates in recent years through partnerships with companies like TCS, Infosys, Accenture, and Capgemini.[8][9] The institution spans a 113-acre campus amid the Eastern Ghats, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure including modern laboratories, libraries, hostels, and sports facilities, while prioritizing support for tribal and rural students through scholarships and inclusive education initiatives.[1][2]History and Establishment
Founding and Early Development
The Vidya Bharati Educational Trust was established in 1996 in Gunupur, Odisha, by Dr. Satya Prakash Panda as President and Dr. Chandra Dhwaj Panda as Vice-President, with the aim of promoting quality education in underserved areas.[10] This trust served as the managing body for educational initiatives, laying the foundation for subsequent institutions under its governance. In 1997, the trust founded the Gandhi Institute of Engineering and Technology (GIET) in Gunupur as a private engineering college, initially affiliated with Sambalpur University to offer undergraduate programs in core engineering disciplines.[10][11] The institution's establishment addressed the pressing need for accessible engineering education in the tribal and rural regions of Odisha, particularly in Rayagada district, where limited higher education opportunities had hindered local development.[11] GIET received approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) in 1997, enabling it to commence operations formally.[12] The first batch of students was admitted in 1997, starting with an intake of 200 across initial branches such as mechanical and electrical engineering.[11] By 2002, the institute had expanded to include additional engineering branches, reflecting growing demand and institutional maturation while maintaining its focus on regional educational equity.[13]Transition to University Status
In 2018, the Government of Odisha enacted the GIET University Act (Act No. 23 of 2018), which elevated the Gandhi Institute of Engineering and Technology (GIET) from an affiliated engineering college to a full-fledged private unitary university, thereby granting it greater autonomy in academic and administrative matters.[14] This legislative sponsorship by the state government marked a pivotal shift, enabling the institution to operate independently under the oversight of the University Grants Commission (UGC), which recognized its unitary status. The UGC included GIET University in its list under Section 2(f) and 12(B) on October 18, 2019.[15][1] The renaming to GIET University reflected this expanded scope, allowing for broader curriculum development and research initiatives beyond its original engineering focus. A key precursor to this transition was the institution's NAAC accreditation with an 'A' grade and a CGPA of 3.28 in 2015, valid until 2020, which underscored its quality and prepared the ground for university elevation.[16] In 2020, the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) further validated its engineering programs, accrediting seven B.Tech branches (including Computer Science, Mechanical, Electrical, and Biotechnology) for the academic years 2020-2023, reinforcing the institution's commitment to high standards in technical education.[17] The university status facilitated significant academic expansion by 2021, diversifying offerings to include programs in basic sciences, management, agriculture, and preparatory steps for nursing. The School of Agriculture, for instance, was established in 2017, offering B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture, which received ICAR accreditation effective February 2024. while the School of Management Studies provided MBA and related programs to foster interdisciplinary growth.[18] This evolution positioned GIET University as a comprehensive institution addressing regional needs in Odisha's southern districts.Campus and Location
Physical Infrastructure
GIET University's campus is located in Gunupur, a semi-urban town in Rayagada district, Odisha, India, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Eastern Ghats near tribal regions. The site spans 113.03 acres of lush, eco-friendly terrain, providing a tranquil environment surrounded by greenery and natural landscapes.[19][20] The architectural layout emphasizes modern construction integrated with sustainable design principles, featuring contemporary buildings for academic blocks, libraries, and laboratories amid expansive green spaces and gardens. These structures incorporate eco-friendly elements such as natural ventilation and landscaping to harmonize with the surrounding hilly and forested areas. The overall built environment supports a serene, pollution-free setting conducive to focused learning.[19][20] Key physical facilities include the central library, known as the Knowledge Centre, which houses over 81,000 books, 2,775 back volumes, and additional resources like journals and digital media across 1,649 square meters. The campus also features dedicated computer centers for computational resources, engineering workshops equipped for hands-on technical activities, and sports complexes offering indoor and outdoor venues for activities such as basketball, volleyball, cricket, football, badminton, and swimming.[20][21][22] Since its establishment in 1997, the campus has undergone phased expansion from its initial setup to the current 113.03 acres by 2020, with progressive additions to buildings and green areas to accommodate growing institutional needs. This development integrates seamlessly with on-campus student accommodation options, ensuring cohesive residential and academic spaces.[8][20]Facilities and Amenities
GIET University provides separate on-campus hostel accommodations for male and female students, with a total capacity exceeding 4,000 boarders across 12 boys' hostels and 11 girls' hostels.[23][20] Rooms are available in configurations including single, double, triple, and quadruple sharing, equipped with basic furnishings, water purifiers, and access to common areas.[23] Mess facilities feature customized menus prepared in steam-cooked kitchens, with dining halls accommodating up to 1,500 students at a time and options tailored to seasonal and regional tastes.[23] All hostels maintain 24-hour security, generator backup for uninterrupted power, Wi-Fi connectivity, and daily newspapers, overseen by resident superintendents, matrons, and welfare officers to ensure hygiene and student welfare.[23] Annual hostel fees range from approximately ₹50,000 to ₹84,000, depending on room type and amenities such as air-conditioning.[24] The university supports health and wellness through a dedicated medical center offering 24-hour dispensary services, free consultations, an on-campus pathology lab, and ambulance facilities for emergencies.[23][20] A state-of-the-art multi-gym at the student center, equipped with modern machinery including treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes, and weight-training stations, operates under instructor supervision to promote physical fitness.[21] Complementing this, a yoga and meditation center provides regular sessions led by certified instructors, focusing on physical and mental well-being amid eco-friendly garden settings with soft grass carpeting.[21] Recreational amenities include extensive indoor and outdoor sports facilities such as cricket and football fields, basketball and volleyball courts, badminton halls, and a national-standard six-lane swimming pool available to students on scheduled timings.[21][20] These support sports clubs that compete in inter-college tournaments and state-level events. A mega auditorium with 820 push-back seats hosts cultural events, seminars, and performances, serving as a central venue for student activities.[25] High-speed Wi-Fi covers the entire campus, including hostels and recreational areas, facilitating academic and leisure connectivity.[23][20] Sustainability initiatives at GIET University emphasize water conservation through rainwater harvesting via an on-campus farm pond and residential grey-water recycling systems for landscape irrigation, implemented as part of broader environmental programs since the adoption of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan in 2019.[26] The campus promotes green practices including intensive afforestation drives, watershed development, and awareness programs on resource management to foster an eco-conscious community.[26]Governance and Leadership
Managing Trust
The Vidya Bharati Educational Trust, established on 13 December 1996 as a non-profit entity registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, in Gunupur, Odisha, functions as the foundational governing body overseeing GIET University.[27] Founded by a group of educationalists from South Odisha, the trust aims to promote technical education through quality programs in a disciplined environment.[27][8] Key members include Dr. Satya Prakash Panda, serving as the Managing Trustee and President, and Dr. Chandra Dhwaj Panda as Vice-President and Trustee; the board also comprises educators and local leaders committed to educational advancement in the region.[27][28][29] The trust holds primary responsibilities for financial management, approval of institutional policies, and strategic planning to ensure the university's sustainable growth and alignment with educational objectives.[27] It further supports access to education by funding scholarships for underprivileged and needy students pursuing studies, research, and vocational training.[27] In its historical role, the trust was directly involved in providing initial funding and establishing GIET University in 1997, which marked the inception of engineering and technology education at the site.[27][1]Administrative Structure
The administrative structure of GIET University is led by the Vice-Chancellor, who is appointed by the managing trust and oversees all academic, operational, and strategic affairs of the institution. As of 2025, the Vice-Chancellor is Dr. A. V. N. L. Sharma, serving in an acting capacity (I/C) and responsible for guiding the university's overall direction, including policy implementation and faculty coordination.[30][31] Key administrative positions support the Vice-Chancellor's leadership, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations. The Registrar, Dr. N. V. Jagannadha Rao, handles administrative duties such as record-keeping, staff management, and compliance with regulatory requirements, acting as the ex-officio secretary to major committees. Deans oversee the constituent schools; for instance, Dr. Dulu Patnaik serves as Dean of the School of Engineering & Technology, focusing on academic leadership within their domains. The Controller of Examinations, Dr. P. Vijaya Kumar, manages assessment processes, including examination scheduling, evaluation, and result declarations to maintain academic integrity.[30][31][32] The university operates through specialized committees that facilitate governance and decision-making under the oversight of the managing trust. The Academic Council, chaired by the Vice-Chancellor and comprising the Registrar, Deans, and nominated members, approves curricula, academic policies, and program standards. The Board of Studies, established for each discipline as per university statutes, reviews and updates course content to align with industry needs and educational advancements. The Finance Committee, including the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and Finance Officer Mr. Sanat Patnaik, oversees budgeting, resource allocation, and financial planning. Decision-making involves nominations by the Board of Governors for committee roles, with annual reviews ensuring alignment with institutional goals.[30][31]Academic Organization
Constituent Schools
GIET University is organized into six constituent schools, each dedicated to specific academic disciplines and supported by specialized faculty, laboratories, and advisory structures to foster targeted education and innovation. The university's total faculty strength exceeds 300 members, distributed across these schools to ensure comprehensive instruction and mentorship.[2] The School of Engineering and Technology, established in 1997 as the foundational unit of the university, serves as its largest academic division, accommodating the majority of the institution's students through undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science and engineering. It emphasizes research-led education, innovation, and hands-on learning via outcome-based curricula, choice-based credit systems, and project-oriented courses in areas like Python programming, computer-aided design, and rapid prototyping.[2][33][34] The School of Management Studies, founded in 2001, focuses on the intersection of business and societal needs, promoting sustainability, entrepreneurship, and global perspectives in management education. It offers MBA programs with specializations in marketing, finance, human resources, supply chain management, business analytics, and rural agribusiness, preparing students for industry challenges through practical and ethical training. Dedicated faculty and advisory input guide its curriculum toward fostering leadership and innovation in dynamic economic contexts.[35] The School of Sciences provides interdisciplinary support to technical programs while offering standalone postgraduate education in physics, chemistry, mathematics, biotechnology, and life sciences. Its curriculum integrates information and communication technology with entrepreneurial development, supported by advanced laboratories for computational and field-based research, enabling students to explore numerical methods, biophysics, and applied scientific problem-solving.[36] Launched in 2017, the School of Agriculture addresses the agricultural requirements of rural and tribal regions in southern Odisha, with an intake capacity of 120 students for its B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture program. Under the leadership of Dean Prof. V.S. Devadas, it promotes teaching, research, and extension activities covering agronomy, horticulture, soil science, plant pathology, and biotechnology, utilizing dedicated farms and labs to enhance food security and sustainable farming practices in backward districts. The school is accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).[18][37] The School of Humanities and Social Sciences delivers a holistic educational framework by blending humanities with professional skills, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in English, economics, education, psychology, and related areas. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to develop competencies in communication, critical thinking, and societal issues, supported by faculty expertise and events focused on self-development and employment awareness.[38] Established in 2022, the School of Nursing aims to build compassionate healthcare professionals equipped for rural and tribal challenges through its B.Sc. Nursing program. Approved by the Indian Nursing Council and Odisha Nurses and Midwives Registration Council, it prioritizes clinical training, research, and ethical values in a dedicated infrastructure, partnering with health regulatory bodies to produce skilled nurses for global standards.[39]Degree Programs Offered
GIET University offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs, encompassing 14 distinct offerings across engineering, sciences, agriculture, nursing, and humanities. The flagship BTech programs span eight branches, including Computer Science and Engineering (with specializations such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science, and Internet of Things), Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, with an annual intake of approximately 900 seats primarily through JEE Main scores.[3][40] Additional undergraduate options include BSc degrees in Agriculture, Nursing, and various Sciences (such as Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics), accommodating approximately 200 seats, alongside a BA in Humanities with 100 seats; eligibility for these programs generally requires 10+2 qualification with minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). Tuition fees for undergraduate engineering programs typically range from ₹1 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh per year.[41] At the postgraduate level, the university provides programs tailored to advanced studies in engineering, management, and sciences. Key offerings include MTech in specializations such as Structural Engineering, Machine Design, VLSI System Design, Computer Science and Engineering, and Production Engineering—with admissions based on GATE scores; MBA programs with 120 seats accessible via CAT or MAT; and MSc in Sciences (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics) with 50 seats, requiring a relevant bachelor's degree and entrance evaluation.[42] These programs emphasize industry-relevant curricula, with fees varying from ₹60,000 for MSc to ₹1.4 lakh annually for MTech and MBA.[43] Doctoral programs at GIET University cover PhD degrees in Engineering (e.g., Civil, Mechanical, Computer Science), Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Mathematics), and Management, admitting around 50 scholars annually through university entrance tests or national exams like UGC-NET.[44] Candidates must hold a master's degree with at least 55% marks and complete mandatory coursework followed by a research thesis under faculty supervision.[45] As of 2023, the university's total student enrollment stands at approximately 3,800 across all levels.[46]| Program Level | Key Offerings | Annual Seats (Approx.) | Entry Requirements | Fee Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | BTech (8 branches), BSc (Agriculture, Nursing, Sciences), BA (Humanities) | 900 (BTech), 200 (BSc), 100 (BA) | 10+2 with 50%, JEE Main for BTech | ₹1-1.5 lakh (Engineering) |
| Postgraduate | MTech (5 specializations), MBA, MSc (Sciences) | 120 (MBA), 50 (MSc) | GATE for MTech, CAT/MAT for MBA, Bachelor's with 55% | ₹60,000-₹1.4 lakh |
| Doctoral | PhD (Engineering, Sciences, Management) | 50 scholars | Master's with 55%, UGC-NET/University Test | Varies (research grants available) |
Research and Innovation
Research Initiatives
GIET University maintains several specialized research facilities to advance interdisciplinary studies. The E-YUVA Centre, established in September 2021 with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), focuses on biotechnology innovations for sustainable applications in agriculture and health.[47] Additionally, the university's School of Agriculture houses dedicated labs, including the Agricultural Engineering Lab and facilities for agronomy, agroforestry, and agricultural economics, emphasizing sustainable farming technologies.[48][49] Key research areas at the university include artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in engineering, renewable energy systems, and solutions for rural health challenges, such as IoT-based monitoring for agriculture, water, and healthcare.[50] Faculty and students produce numerous publications annually, including approximately 330 papers in refereed journals and conferences in 2023, with many in Scopus-indexed journals across fields like electrical engineering, computer science, and environmental sciences.[51][52] Research funding is secured primarily through national agencies, including grants from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) totaling approximately ₹1.66 crore for ongoing projects such as hybrid renewable energy systems and wastewater treatment for irrigation.[53] The university also collaborates with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) via a 2024 MoU that includes research grants for on-farm trials in sustainable agriculture. The PhD program, offered in disciplines like computer science, biotechnology, and mechanical engineering, supports around 50 registered scholars through stipends and institutional resources to foster advanced research.[54][44] Notable initiatives include hosting international conferences and symposiums, such as the annual IEEE International Symposium on Sustainable Energy, Signal Processing, and Cybersecurity (iSSSC), which began in 2022 and reached its third edition in 2025. The third edition of the symposium, held November 6-8, 2025, featured presentations on sustainable technologies and cybersecurity.[55][56] As of 2025, the university has filed over 15 design patents, including a granted patent for a solar-powered bore well water purification system developed by faculty in 2023.[57] These efforts underscore the institution's commitment to translating research into practical innovations.Collaborations and Achievements
GIET University has established numerous memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with industry leaders to enhance student placements and skill development. Notable partnerships include collaborations with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Infosys, which facilitate training programs and recruitment drives, contributing to a placement rate exceeding 80% for eligible graduates.[58][59] These ties extend to other major firms such as Wipro, Accenture, and IBM, enabling students to secure positions in software engineering and IT services through campus drives.[60] On the international front, recent partnerships, such as the 2025 MoU with SANDESH Japanese Language Services, aim to broaden global competencies in language and professional skills.[61] In terms of achievements, GIET University received the "Best University Award for Innovation and Campus Placement" at the International Education Pride Awards in 2021, recognizing its contributions to educational innovation and employability.[62] The institution also earned recognition as the "Best University" for organizing a successful startup bootcamp in Odisha, highlighting its role in fostering entrepreneurship. In 2022, the university launched its Innovation and Incubation Center (ACIC GIET University Foundation), which provides mentoring, funding, and infrastructure to early-stage startups, supporting ventures in technology and sustainable development.[63][64] The university's notable contributions include community outreach in tribal and hilly regions of Odisha, where it funds projects focused on skill training and sustainable agriculture to empower local youth. For instance, initiatives under the Ministry of Science and Technology have targeted livelihood improvement for tribal communities, training hundreds annually in vocational skills.[53][65] Alumni have achieved prominence in leading organizations, with graduates placed at companies like Google and Amazon, as well as contributing to national agencies through roles in engineering and research.[58][13] Global outreach efforts are bolstered by the university's research centers, which enable joint academic endeavors with international partners, resulting in collaborative outputs such as co-authored papers and exchange programs.[66]Rankings and Accreditations
National Rankings
GIET University first appeared in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings in 2022, securing a position in the 251-300 band for the engineering category.[67] This marked the institution's entry into national recognition for its engineering programs, evaluated on parameters such as teaching, learning resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach, and perception.[68] In subsequent years, the university demonstrated improvement and stability. For NIRF 2024, GIET University advanced to the 201-300 band in engineering, reflecting enhanced performance in graduation outcomes and placements.[69] This progress continued into 2025, where it maintained the 201-300 band, underscoring consistent growth amid competitive national assessments.[70] The NIRF evaluations prioritize quantitative metrics like placement rates and salary packages, contributing to its upward trajectory.[59] Overall, the university has not yet entered the top 200 in comprehensive national rankings, but its engineering focus shows a steady rise driven by improved employability metrics.| Year | NIRF Engineering Rank Band | Key Contributing Factor |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 251-300 | Initial participation and baseline performance in teaching and outcomes[67] |
| 2024 | 201-300 | Enhanced placements and graduation outcomes[69] |
| 2025 | 201-300 | Sustained stability in research and perception scores[70] |