Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) was established in 1963 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce to contribute to the skill building for the external trade sector of India. However, over the past few years, the institution has made significant strides forward, improving its stature in almost every aspect. The institute's growth trajectory, as documented in its ranking under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), is a great example. After the NIRF was launched in 2015, IIFT was ranked 81st in its first ranking. In 2017, IIFT made a long jump to stand at 30th rank

and bettered the rank to 23 a year later. In 2019, the institute fell back to 31. It was ranked 26th and 25th, respectively, in the pandemic-ridden 2020 and 2021. In last year's ranking, IIFT was at 27th spot against 24th in 2022. In the latest ranking, IIFT has moved up twelve places to 15th rank.

It’s a significant achievement, and credit can be given to the institute's collaborative approach toward education. IIFT maintains a close-knit relationship with the industry realm and constantly collaborates to improve its education paradigms. For instance, the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board (GIDB) and IIFT – Knowledge Centre recently signed an MoU to undertake research and studies to improve Gujarat’s logistics and transport infrastructure as a global gateway to EXIM Logistics in India. This will help the entities contribute to the Prime Minister’s vision for Amrit Kaal 2047. Such constant engagements help the institute produce global citizens and business leaders. We dedicate this special issue to the prestigious alumni of IIFT. Do let us know your thoughts.