The Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) faces opposition from its faculty members and alumni over its reported plan to shed its 'deemed-to-be university' tag. The move, first reported by TOI, is intended to unlock access to large-scale state and central government funding. However, a section of faculty has written to the Board of Governors, warning that transitioning to a state university or a hybrid model could undermine ICT's autonomy, academic standards, and long-term growth.
Faculty Concerns
Faculty members argue that ICT's global reputation has been built on decades of academic independence, merit-based governance, and close industry linkages. They fear that shifting to a state framework could dilute the institute's control over recruitment and academic decisions. A key concern is the lower retirement age mandated under state norms. While deemed-to-be status allows retirement at 65, state regulations require retirement at 60. This would mean losing at least 20% of senior academics in one go, impacting research, teaching, and mentorship.
Alumnus Suggests Central University Status
Prof. M.M. Sharma, FRS, an eminent alumnus and former director of ICT, believes the institute should be granted central university status through an Act of Parliament. Sharma, associated with ICT since 1954, told TOI that the deemed university status should not hinder access to funding, adding that such limitations contradict recommendations made when the status was conferred. He stated, "ICT has all the credentials to become a central university. It has always had a national character, with students from across India studying here since early years. Maharashtra, too, will continue to benefit from the institute." He noted that regional engineering institutes have been converted into national institutes in the past.
Government Position
While government officials said no formal proposal has been submitted by ICT, sources indicate the matter is likely to be placed before the ICT Governing Board for deliberation. Government sources clarified that the institute's request was only to drop the deemed-to-be tag to make it eligible for central funding, including schemes under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), while retaining autonomy in academics and governance.
