IRJET's Latest Milestone: SJIF Climbs to 8.315 for 2024

In a significant update for the research community, the International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) has announced its Scientific Journal Impact Factor (SJIF) of 8.315 for the year 2024. This marks a continued upward trajectory for the journal, which has become a staple for engineering and technology researchers, particularly in India. The announcement highlights IRJET's growing influence in disseminating multidisciplinary research, from civil engineering innovations to cutting-edge AI applications.

Established in 2014, IRJET operates as a peer-reviewed, open-access platform published monthly by Fast Track Publications. With over 42,000 citations amassed on Google Scholar and an h-index of 64, the journal processes thousands of submissions annually, offering a fast-track route to publication—often within days after review. This SJIF score, verified through SJIFactor.com, reflects evaluations based on criteria like citation rates, editorial quality, and global visibility.

Decoding the Scientific Journal Impact Factor (SJIF)

The Scientific Journal Impact Factor (SJIF), calculated by SJIFactor.com, differs from the traditional Journal Impact Factor (JIF) provided by Clarivate's Journal Citation Reports (JCR). While JIF relies on citations in Web of Science-indexed journals over a two-year window, SJIF incorporates a broader methodology, including self-citation adjustments, international diversity, and editorial board strength. For IRJET, this metric has risen steadily: from 3.563 in 2014 to 7.529 in 2020, 8.226 in 2023, and now 8.315 in 2024.

Understanding these metrics is crucial for researchers navigating publication choices. SJIF provides an accessible benchmark for open-access journals not yet in premium databases, but experts caution that it lacks the rigor of JCR or Scopus metrics. In India's competitive academic landscape, where publication counts influence PhD completions and faculty promotions, such scores offer quick validation.

IRJET's Evolution: A Decade of Growth in Engineering Research

Since its inception, IRJET has evolved from a nascent platform to a prolific publisher, releasing 12 issues per year covering topics like mechanical engineering, computer science, and environmental technology. Key milestones include ISO 9001:2008 certification for quality management and past UGC approval in 2017—though it is no longer on the current UGC CARE list. Submissions are handled online with a one-week review turnaround, making it appealing for time-sensitive projects like M.Tech theses.

Statistics underscore its scale: Volume 13 (2026) is already underway, with ongoing calls for papers. The journal's Google Scholar profile boasts 30,720 citations since 2020 alone, demonstrating real-world impact despite debates over quality control.

Why This Matters for Indian Researchers and Academia

In India, home to over 5,300 universities and thousands of engineering colleges, publications are a cornerstone of academic progression. IRJET's high SJIF positions it as a viable option for early-career researchers facing barriers to elite journals. For instance, engineering students at institutions like IITs or NITs often use it for conference extensions or initial findings, bolstering CVs for faculty positions.

The journal's multidisciplinary scope aligns with India's push for applied research under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, fostering innovations in renewable energy and smart infrastructure. However, stakeholders emphasize balancing volume with prestige for long-term career growth.

Indexing Status and Global Recognition

IRJET boasts indexing in Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Scribd, enhancing discoverability. It was submitted to Scopus in 2019 (under evaluation) but remains absent from Web of Science or PubMed. This hybrid status—strong in alternative metrics but not elite databases—mirrors many emerging Indian journals.

For context, IRJET's indexing page lists repositories that boost paper visibility, crucial for citation accumulation. Researchers should verify current standings via official portals like UGC CARE or ScimagoJR.

Photo by Sonalika Vakili on Unsplash

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View on Publishing in IRJET

• Rapid Publication: From submission to online access in under two weeks, ideal for deadlines.
• Affordable Fees: Low processing charges (typically INR 1,000-2,000), with free e-certificates.
• High Visibility: Open access ensures global reach without paywalls.
• Multidisciplinary Reach: Suits diverse engineering fields prevalent in Indian curricula.

Criticisms include perceptions of lax peer review and predatory traits, as noted in forums like Quora and Reddit. Not being in Scopus/WoS limits its weight for international grants. Indian academics advise using it judiciously alongside higher-tier outlets.

Perspectives from Researchers and Institutions

Indian engineering faculty often view IRJET as a 'starter journal' for undergraduates and postgrads. A survey of NIT researchers revealed 40% used it for initial pubs, citing speed over prestige. Conversely, senior professors recommend Scopus-indexed alternatives like the Indian Journal of Engineering (IF ~0.36) for promotions.

Case study: A 2024 paper on AI defect detection in aerospace garnered 50+ citations via IRJET, aiding the author's research assistant role. Yet, PhD committees increasingly prioritize CARE-listed journals.

Comparing IRJET with Other Indian Engineering Journals

IRJET excels in volume and speed, while others offer prestige. For hybrid careers, diversify: start with IRJET, aim for Scopus.

Implications for Higher Education and Career Advancement

In India's higher education sector, where NIRF rankings emphasize research output, IRJET contributes to institutional metrics. Universities like Anna University report IRJET pubs in faculty profiles, aiding NAAC accreditation. For aspiring lecturers, explore lecturer opportunities post-publication.

Challenges include rising scrutiny on predatory pubs; UGC's 2024 guidelines stress quality over quantity.

Future Outlook: Trends in Indian Research Publishing

With AI-driven reviews and blockchain for transparency, journals like IRJET may evolve. India's NEP 2020 prioritizes quality research, potentially boosting Scopus inclusions. Expect IRJET's SJIF to hover above 8, but true growth lies in premium indexing.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Actionable Advice for Researchers

• Verify journal metrics on multiple platforms before submitting.
• Combine IRJET with CARE-listed pubs for balanced portfolios.
• Leverage academic CV tips to highlight impacts.
• Seek professor ratings for mentorship on pubs.

Publishing strategically enhances prospects in university jobs.

For those eyeing research careers, IRJET's 2024 SJIF update signals accessible avenues amid India's booming engineering sector. Balance quick wins with quality pursuits, and consult resources like higher ed jobs, career advice, and Rate My Professor. Stay informed, publish wisely.