Hours later, the AICTE withdrew its approval process handbook (APH) for 2021-22, which had the new eligibility criteria. AICTE chairperson Anil Sahasrabudhe said the new guidelines were futuristic and in keeping with the vision of the National Education Policy-2020.
Physics, chemistry and maths would continue to be important subjects in engineering courses, but students would have the option to study biotechnology, textile or agriculture engineering through bridge courses. These guidelines were not compulsory, Sahasrabudhe said.
By afternoon, the AICTE website carried a ticker: “It is to inform all concerned that APH 2021-22 has been withdrawn for a short period and to be placed again on the AICTE website within a day or two”.
By nighttime, the announcement read: “It is to inform all concerned that APH 2021-22 has been withdrawn for a typographical corrections and it will be placed again on the AICTE website within a day or two.”
The AICTE move had drawn wide protests, and a few voices in support. Welcoming the AICTE’s decision to withdraw the new criteria, Anna University vice-chancellor M K Surappa said maths is very critical to engineering.
However, Sandeep Sancheti, former vice chancellor of SRM Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai, said, “In principle, making Class XII-level maths and physics optional for engineering admissions is a good move. It will keep the entry open for someone who wants to correct his or her path.”
