Is VIT better than some NITs like say NIT Durgapur?

No, VIT is not better than NITs at all. In fact, its a private engineering college so it will cost you much more than studying at a government college like NIT. Here is why I think NITs in general or NIT Durgapur, in particular, is better than VIT

• Although NITs have a reservation policy, it does not suck as much as the Management Quota at VIT that lets in a huge number of average students.
• The placement statistics clearly put NIT Durgapur ahead of VIT. 
• NIT Durgapur has a rich legacy and is highly reputed among recruiters. 
• You will get the advantage of the NIT tag and one can deny the fact that it does give you an edge over others

Here is a brief overview of these colleges

Ultimately, it depends on your passion for studying because if you are passionate enough, even an average college will bring out the best in you.