The Union human resources development ministry is likely to oppose the recent recommendation of the directors of the Indian Institutes of Technology of a two-tier entrance exam structure for the institutes.
Sources said the ministry is expected to put forth its view at the IIT council meet, expected in August or September. “The IIT council is expected to take a final decision on the issue,” sources added. The two-tier entrance exam structure was proposed by a panel headed by IIT-Kharagpur director Damodar Acharya. The committee had suggested that the first tier be a common aptitude test and the second an additional test for those who crossed the first hurdle. However, the IIT directors’ decision is being seen as direct opposition to Union HRD minister Kapil Sibal’s plan to reduce the burden of examinations.
The HRD ministry’s stand on the proposed two-tier entrance examination structure is expected to face stiff opposition from the IITs.
Sources said the minister is of the view that all engineering aspirants should take a common entrance test as this would reduce pressure and lessen the financial burden. “He had, in fact, suggested that the IIT-JEE and AIEEE be combined,” the sources added.
The IIT directors have tried to suggest that the IIT-JEE merit list be expanded and aspirants who secure fewer marks can be taken by other engineering colleges. However, even this hasn’t found much favour in the ministry.