The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has shared troubling data on job placements for its students from 2019 to 2023 in response to queries under the Right to Information Act. The institution revealed that about 22 per cent of students who sought placements during this 5-year period were unable to find jobs. This disclosure has sparked conversations about the employment prospects for graduates of this esteemed institution.
The institution mentioned that job placements are ongoing for this year but has chosen not to share specific appointment details. However, experts indicate an employment rate of approximately 40 per cent for 2024, which shows progress as compared to previous years but reveals that a considerable number of students are still facing challenges in getting employed.
The information from RTI shows that the average and median salaries at IIT Delhi have stayed the same for the last four years. In 2021-22, the average Cost to the Company (CTC) was Rs 23.8 lakhs, and the gross salary was Rs 19.9 lakhs. The median salary was Rs 18.2 lakhs (CTC) and Rs 16 lakhs (gross). In 2022-23, the average salary went down to Rs 21.9 lakhs (CTC) and Rs 18.6 lakhs (gross), with a median salary of Rs 19.5 lakhs (CTC) and Rs 17.4 lakhs (gross).
Information in a tabular form for better understanding
The placement numbers for the respective years provide insight into the unemployment situation. In 2021-22, all 1105 students registered with IIT Delhi’s career services were successfully placed. Out of 1513 registered students in 2022-23, the number slightly increased to 1270. However, there were still 366 unplaced students in 2021-22 and 243 in 2022-23.
Dheeraj Singh, an IIT Kanpur alumnus and founder of the Global IIT Alumni Support Group, expressed his concern regarding the significant number of unplaced students at IIT Delhi in the last five years. Singh, who filed the RTI application, was shocked by the doubling of unplaced students to 40 per cent in the current year, highlighting this critical situation. He emphasised that IIT Delhi officials and the Ministry of Education should solve the matter and tackle this job crisis.
Singh pointed out the situation of unplaced students and how unemployment affects their emotional health, causing high levels of stress, anxiety, and hopelessness. He urged IIT Delhi to support these students and provide them with a second chance to participate in placements beyond the regular season.
Economists have also voiced their concerns regarding the placement numbers. Eminent labour economist Santosh Mehrotra criticised the discrepancy between the reported 8.4 per cent growth rate of the country and the reality faced by IIT graduates. Mehrotra pointed out the inconsistency in the IITs’ communication about placements, noting a decline in placements compared to previous years. He highlighted the challenges faced by students, particularly in the startup sector, where job opportunities have dwindled.
Mehrotra painted a grim picture, noting a lack of growth in investment as a percentage of GDP. He highlighted that major companies, typically hiring IIT graduates, create fewer jobs, resulting in smaller job offers.
In summary, the information on job placements and salaries at IIT Delhi has raised concerns among analysts, economists, and alumni. The data reveals that many students are facing difficulties finding jobs, with little growth in salaries adding to the challenges. Urgent action and support from the institution and relevant authorities are crucial to address this worrying trend and provide better opportunities for the talented graduates of one of India’s top engineering colleges.
