Overhaul of IIT Curricula

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are updating their curricula to align with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), focusing on flexible and hands-on learning. This shift is in response to rapidly evolving technology and business needs.

Curriculum Review Frequency

• Traditionally, IITs reviewed programs once a decade. Now, institutes like IIT Kharagpur and IIT Kanpur update courses more frequently, with annual reviews and updates every two to three semesters.

Integration of AI and Sustainability

• Courses now embed artificial intelligence, sustainability, and ethics across disciplines.
• Flexibility in attendance norms and project-based learning is emphasized.
• Students can customize degrees with new interdisciplinary tracks like AI, health technology, energy transition, and more.

Leading IITs and Curriculum Revisions

• IIT Kanpur introduces "special topics" courses, covering areas like generative AI and quantum computing.
• New pathways include applied health economics, climate finance, and digital governance.

IIT Delhi's Outcome-Based Approach

• Implemented a new curriculum focused on team-driven projects, laboratory work, and tutorials.
• Full overhauls occur once a decade due to the institute's scale.

Multiple Entry and Exit Options

• Reduced credit burden and increased practical learning for industry readiness.
• Options for minor degrees, specializations, and BTech Honours pathways.
• IIT BHU allows flexible entry-exit policies with re-entry options up to seven years post-admission for students from July 2025.

Emerging Domains in Newer IITs

• IIT Bombay focuses on experiential learning and digital education expansion.
• IIT Mandi explores sustainability, climate technology, and cognitive neuroscience.