How Is IIFT Shaping Future Leaders? Insights from Piyush Goyal
Synopsis
Discover how the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) is shaping tomorrow's leaders and boosting India's global trade presence. With prestigious rankings and innovative programs, IIFT is committed to excellence in international business education.
Key Takeaways
IIFT is ranked first in Times B-School Ranking 2026.
It focuses on international trade and global business.
Established in 1963, it is a deemed university.
IIFT has campuses across India and plans for an international campus in Dubai.
The institute empowers future leaders through specialized education.
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) is significantly influencing the development of future leaders and enhancing India’s stature in the international trading arena, according to Piyush Goyal, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, who spoke on Saturday.
IIFT has achieved the top rank in the ‘Times B-School Ranking 2026’, solidifying its reputation as a leading institution in management education with a specialized emphasis on international trade and global business.
Goyal hailed this accomplishment as a reflection of IIFT’s ongoing commitment to equipping students with essential skills, vision, and analytical abilities.
The Commerce Secretary and Chancellor of IIFT, Rajesh Agrawal, remarked that the institute's advancement is indicative of its robust academic foundation, growing global perspective, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
“IIFT plays a pivotal role in supporting India’s ambition to become a global leader in international trade and contributes to the vision of Viksit Bharat by developing proficient management professionals who align with national trade, economic, and strategic priorities,” he emphasized.
Founded in 1963, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade is recognized as a deemed university under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
As a top-tier institution focusing on international trade and business, IIFT provides flagship MBA programs, executive education, and doctoral research, contributing significantly to India’s advancement in global commerce and trade policy.
The Institute operates campuses in Delhi, Kolkata, Kakinada, and GIFT City, and is set to launch its inaugural offshore campus in Dubai.
Professor Rakesh Mohan Joshi, Vice Chancellor of IIFT, expressed gratitude to Goyal and Agrawal for their vision and steadfast support, reiterating his commitment to enhancing the quality of management education in international business by increasing academic rigor, policy relevance, industry collaboration, and international engagement; integrating contemporary realities into its teaching, research, and operations, thereby transforming it into a world-class institution.
In September of the previous year, IIFT launched the International Trade Negotiations Programme for officials from the Department of Commerce. Organized by IIFT’s Centre for International Negotiations, this program aims to bolster the negotiation skills of government officials and enhance India’s global trade interactions.
Point of View
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade stands as a pillar of excellence in management education, preparing students for the complex realities of international trade. Its initiatives align with India's strategic goals, making it a vital contributor to the nation’s aspirations for a prosperous future.
NationPress
8 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of IIFT in India's trade education?
IIFT plays a crucial role in shaping leaders in international trade, offering specialized education and research programs that align with India's global trade ambitions.
How does IIFT contribute to Viksit Bharat?
IIFT supports Viksit Bharat by training competent professionals who align their skills with national trade and economic priorities.
Where are IIFT's campuses located?
IIFT has campuses in Delhi, Kolkata, Kakinada, and GIFT City, with plans for an offshore campus in Dubai.
What programs does IIFT offer?
IIFT offers flagship MBA programs, executive education, and doctoral research focused on international trade and business.
