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Legacy of IIT/IIM

A particular tweet caught my attention a while ago.
Well, IIT Kharagpur (the idea) was conceptualized in 1946 (pre-independence) and started functioning from 1950. The next 4 IIT were simply replicating the idea. Yes it did happen in the congress rule. However, the very idea of IIT like institute had nothing to do with Indian National Congress.

Lets still give credit to INC for setting up the institutes like IIT Delhi, Madras, Powai and IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Calcutta (The original names).

These became world class institutes over time. The reputation was recognized in the best of the institutes world over. I had the opportunity to study at one of the best B-Schools (Wharton) and interact with multi-Ethnic students and faculty. They spoke of some professor or their PhD guide etc. who were from IIT/IIM; with great respect, for their knowledge, professionalism and calibre.

In the first decade of this millennium, INC commoditised IIT/IIM and started opening it in every nook and corner of the country. I interviewed few graduates from newer IIT/IIM. I was really disappointed by their knowledge and capability (rather- lack of it). Can't blame the poor kids. The lack of infrastructure and faculty (read vision and legacy - in RG's words), little they can gain from the walls and classrooms. A few IIT Powai and Kharagpur grads I spoke to also refer the the newer additions as 2nd/3rd tier. Let's not talk about the respect in global fraternity.

The vision and legacy of 60 years of rule. Building a brand or Destroying it.
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