Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) is a state public university located in Amritsar, in the Indian state of Punjab. Established in 1969, it was named in honour of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, on the occasion of his 500th birth anniversary. The university serves as a major centre of higher education and research in the Majha region of Punjab, with affiliated colleges spread across several districts.
| Name | Guru Nanak Dev University |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | GNDU |
| Type | State public university |
| Established | 1969 |
| Location | Amritsar, Punjab, India |
| Named after | Guru Nanak |
| Language of instruction | English, Punjabi |
The university was founded by an Act of the Punjab Legislature in November 1969, marking the quincentenary celebrations of Guru Nanak's birth. The legislation envisioned an institution that would promote teaching and research in the humanities, sciences, and the cultural and religious heritage associated with Sikhism, while also serving the educational needs of the Majha region.
The main campus is situated on the outskirts of Amritsar, the spiritual centre of Sikhism and home to the Harmandir Sahib. In addition to the principal campus, the university operates regional campuses and affiliates a large network of colleges across northern Punjab, including in districts such as Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Pathankot and Amritsar.
GNDU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes through faculties covering arts and social sciences, sciences, engineering and technology, life sciences, languages, education, business management and commerce, law, medical sciences, and physical education. The university is recognised by the University Grants Commission and is a member of the Association of Indian Universities.
The university has dedicated departments and chairs devoted to Sikh studies, Punjabi literature, and the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, reflecting its founding mandate. It also maintains research programmes in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, physics, and computer science.
Guru Nanak Dev University has a strong reputation in university-level sports in India. It has repeatedly won the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy, awarded by the Ministry of Education to the best-performing university in inter-university sports competitions, making it one of the most decorated institutions in Indian university athletics.
As a regional university based in Amritsar, GNDU plays a central role in higher education for the Majha belt of Punjab. It functions both as a teaching and research institution and as an affiliating body for numerous colleges. Its emphasis on Punjabi language, Sikh studies, and regional culture complements its scientific and professional faculties.