The conversion of Regional Engineering College Srinagar into National Institute of Technology has least benefitted Kashmiri students. According to educationists Kashmiris lost the engineering college and its assets worth hundreds of crores to Government of India way back in 2003 when it was converted into NIT from REC. An NIT professor told on the condition of anonymity that the most unfortunate part is that only 15% Kashmiri students get admitted in the college for engineering courses.
“Though there is 50:50 ratio for admission for J&K state and outside state students, but the reality on ground is totally different in the Institute. Out of 50% share to the state, 25% goes to Jammu Division while out of remaining 25%, only 15% Kashmiri students take admission while 10% students opt for courses in Government Medical College. This change in ratio is the reason why non-local students outnumber Kashmiri students,” he said.
Kashmir University Teachers Association president Professor Muhammad Hussain said this Institute was beneficial for the Kashmiri students, but unfortunately they don’t get the equal share when it comes to admission. “This institute is run by HRD Ministry and they follow their own policies while state has no control over it.”
Another Professor said that when the intake capacity in the NIT was raised, no benefit was given to the local students. “There will be a time when you will not find more than 20 students from Jammu and Kashmir in the Institute,” he said and added that the conversion of REC into NIT was a loss for the Kashmiri students. “It is very difficult for Kashmiri students to compete in AIEEE test. Most of the directors are non-Kashmiris and they don’t have interest in developing this institute,” he added.
The NIT, earlier known as Regional Engineering College, was established in 1960. It is one of the noted institutes in north India, offering courses in engineering. The institute was converted into NIT and granted the status of Deemed University in 2003 by University Grants Commission. It was established during the first five-year plan and recognized as an institute of national importance.
