Death of IITs ? – 2023

Recent years have seen a decline in the quality of education and research in the IITs, leading many to question the relevance and future of these institutions. In this article, we will explore the factors that have contributed to the “Death of IITs”.

HISTORY

IITs, or the Indian Institutes of Technology, were introduced in India shortly after its independence in 1947 by the suggestion of  Sircar Committee, led by Sh. N.M.Sircar, a member of the Viceroy’s Executive Council who represented education.

The main  purpose of this  idea was –

1. To compete with the elite and prestigious countries like USA , UK and Japan in the field of research , medical and education .

   2. To develop technical and engineering education in India 

   3. And produce skilled engineers and scientists who could contribute to the country’s industrial development. 

In 1951, the first IIT was founded at Kharagpur with the support of a loan from the West German government and technical expertise. After that the USSR made the assistance offer and promised to work with UNESCO in Bombay to create an institute. Thereafter , other countries like USA ,UK and West Germany also collaborated  to establish other IITs at Madras , Kanpur & Delhi .

Since that time, additional IITs have been founded around the nation in cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Guwahati and Roorkee.Currently , there are total of 23 IITs in India, spread throughout various regions of the nation.

What are IITs ?

 Indian Institutes of Technology is referred to as IITs. The various  engineering and technology institutes included here are well-known for their academic brilliance and research accomplishments across a range of engineering, technology, and science disciplines.The IITs have a long history of generating some of the most brilliant minds in the nation who have significantly advanced several areas of science and technology, both domestically and internationally. They are regarded as the best engineering schools in India.

They provide undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programmes in a range of technical, scientific, and engineering disciplines. The Joint Entrance Examination, a national level entrance exam, is used to determine candidates’ eligibility for admission to various institutes (JEE).

How to get into IITs ?

Getting into IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology) requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and preparation.

Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting into an IIT:

•  Prepare for JEE: Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is the entrance exam for admission to IITs.The exam tests your knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. You have to clear both Mains and Advance with good aggregates in order to get into IITs . You can also check cutoffs of previous years in order to get the approximate idea of the score you have to achieve so that you can target your desired IIT.

•  Practice mock tests: Practice mock tests regularly to get a feel of the exam and to understand the areas where you need to improve.This exam is all about practising mock tests. The more Mock tests you give, the more chances you have of going into the IITs.

•   PRO TIP : You only need to master any of the 2 subjects out of 3.But you should also have some basic knowledge of the third one.

• Refer to good study material: Refer to good books and study material for all the subjects. You can also take the help of online resources and coaching centers.

• Consistency: Stay motivated and focused on your goal. Getting into IITs is not an easy task, but with consistent efforts and dedication, you can achieve your goal.Believe in yourself and keep working hard.

Why the Quality of IITs have Declined ?

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have been the crown jewel of technical education in India for several decades. With a rigorous selection process and a world-class curriculum, these institutions have produced some of the finest engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs in the country. 

But what if I tell you that  recent developments suggest that the IITs may be on the brink of a crisis that could spell the end of these prestigious institutions as we know them. Is it bit surprising or not ?

The first indication of problems was a continuous fall in the caliber  applicants to the IITs. Hundreds of thousands of students used to compete fiercely for a small number of seats at these institutes, but in recent years, the number of applicants has dropped considerably. The popularity of non-STEM subjects, the growth of private colleges, and the notion that the IITs are no longer the greatest option for technical education in India are a few reasons for this.

The lack of creativity and relevance in their curricula has also been a problem for the IITs recently. The IITs were previously at the forefront of cutting-edge research and development, but they are unable to keep up with the needs of the industry, which are changing at a rapid rate. As a result, many IIT graduates are ill-prepared to manage the demands of the modern industry and are required to complete further training.

Why are students committing suicide after getting into IITs?

Suicide is a complicated problem that cannot have just one reason. However, the pressure and stress of academic expectations and rivalry might be a contributing cause. Students may experience stress, anxiety, despair, and even suicidal thoughts as a result of their demanding academic schedules, fierce rivalry, lack of social support, and high expectations from their families and society.

Also, a lot of students who are accepted into the IITs have spent a lot of time, money, and energy preparing for the entrance tests, thus performing poorly can leave students feeling defeated, ashamed, and disappointed. Stress can also be increased by the need to retain excellent grades and find a lucrative career after graduation.

Educational institutions must be aware of the difficulties students may be having with their mental health and offer sufficient resources and support to help them. This can involve providing students with counselling services, raising awareness about mental health issues, and fostering a positive environment that values their mental and emotional well-being. Families and society should acknowledge the pressure students are under and support them as they navigate their lives.

Caste Discrimination in IITs ?

Caste discrimination is a serious issue in many parts of India, and unfortunately, it can also occur in institutions such as IITs. Despite affirmative action policies and efforts to create a more inclusive environment, there have been instances where students from lower castes have faced discrimination and marginalization.

It’s important to note that discrimination based on caste is not only illegal but also goes against the values of equality and social justice that IITs are meant to uphold. If you or someone you know is experiencing caste-based discrimination, it’s important to report it to the authorities and seek support from relevant organizations or individuals.

Some steps that can be taken to address caste-based discrimination in IITs include:

1. Increasing awareness and education around the issue of caste and the negative impact of discrimination.
2. Strengthening anti-discrimination policies and implementing strict measures to prevent and address instances of discrimination.
3. Providing support and resources for students from marginalized communities, including counseling services, mentorship programs, and scholarships.
4. Encouraging and promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of campus life, including student organizations, extracurricular activities, and hiring practices.

Ultimately, creating a more inclusive and equitable environment in IITs requires a collective effort from the administration, faculty, students, and wider society to recognize and address the deeply entrenched issues of caste-based discrimination.

As I conclude this article on the “Death of IITs,” it is essential to understand that the IITs are still one of the most prestigious institutions in India and have produced some of the world’s most talented engineers and innovators. While the article highlights some of the challenges faced by IITs, it is important to note that the government and the institutions themselves are taking steps to address these issues.

In conclusion, while the IITs may be facing some challenges, they are far from dead. With the right support and investment, these institutions will continue to produce some of the world’s best engineers and scientists, and play a vital role in shaping India’s future.

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