Analysis of PhDs awarded by Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) and Electronic Thesis available in Shodhganga Repository

Abstract

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are renowned engineering and technology institutions in India known for research excellence. This study highlights INFLIBNET's efforts to promote Open Access by including IIT theses in the Shodhganga repository. It analyzes Ph.D. degrees awarded by IITs from 2012 to 2022, with IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi, and IIT Bombay leading with 2977, 2724, and 2642 awards, respectively. The rising number of Ph.D. degrees is attributed to expanded research programs and the demand for research professionals in India. Notably, there's variation in awards among IITs. The study examines electronic theses in the Shodhganga Repository to identify top IITs in Ph.D. awards and growth rates. It also assesses contributions to the repository. Findings show 18,422 research degrees were granted by IITs during this time, with Ph.D. awards reaching 3,003 in 2021- 2022. Predictions suggest over 65,000 research degrees will be conferred by IITs in the next decade, averaging 6,500 yearly. Ph.D. thesis submissions grew from 1441 in 2019 to 7207 in 2023, indicating substantial growth. This trend reflects IITs' commitment to research excellence and open knowledge dissemination. The study aids policymakers, academics, and potential Ph.D. students in evaluating research output and reputations of IITs in India.