The non-resident Indian (NRI) quota in engineering colleges has been slashed to 5 per cent from the existing 15 per cent seats. The state government on Thursday issued orders to this effect. NRI seats will be allotted to only those students whose parents reside abroad. No sponsorship from NRIs will be allowed henceforth. The decision follows widespread complaints that prominent engineering colleges were misusing the “NRI-sponsored students” clause and allotting seats to local students by collecting huge capitation fees.
The new rules stipulate that only 5 per cent of seats can be allotted to NRI students whose parents live abroad. No “sponsorship” from NRI relatives or friends will be allowed. They have to seek approval from the AICTE. Students have to secure 50 per cent marks in the qualifying exam (10+2) in group subjects to be eligible for the NRI quota. Students and parents vie for NRI quota seats in the state’s top 50 engineering colleges.