This article discusses the significance of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in India’s higher education landscape. It highlights the challenges faced by Odisha’s state public universities and colleges in achieving top NIRF rankings due to factors like funding, faculty, infrastructure, and bureaucratic hurdles. The article proposes strategies to improve NIRF performance, including institutional development plans, state support, faculty development, research focus, student experience, and outreach. It concludes by emphasizing the potential for Odisha’s HEIs to achieve top-tier rankings with concerted efforts and strategic implementation.