The Hindu Business Line : IIM controversy

The controversy created by HRD ministry over starting an IIM-B campus in Singapore shows how politics can play spoilsport in academics. By opening a branch in Singapore, IIM-B will not only get financial aid but also international recognition. It can also cater to needs of the 9 per cent population of Indians in Singapore. BITS Pilani is an example of an institution that has opened its campus in Knowledge Village, Dubai.

Our institutions, despite being research and education oriented, are forced to consider political and bureaucratic obligations. A financially independent institution should be allowed to tie up with other world-class institutions and open international campuses. They should be given full autonomy.

Having said that, these institutions are unable to fulfil the internal demand requirements. Only one per cent of CAT aspirants get through the IIMs. The need of the hour is to either increase the intake of seats or increase the number of IIMs.

Ashwini Kumar Singh

Bihar

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The IIMs have a tendency to cry wolf every time the Government does not agree with their decision. They have exhibited poor management in not verifying that their Memorandum of Association does not allow for such a decision. Though they currently receive no grant, the fact remains that originally the IIMs were set up with huge government grants.

When only one per cent of the applicants to the IIMs can get admission, their first priority should have been to set up IIMs in the capitals of every State.

Benjamin G. Alvares

Belgaum

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