SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, July 16: Notwithstanding almost at par with the top 10 institutions in most of the parameters, the ‘Perception Score’ let the IIT Indian School of Mines (ISM) three positions down in the National Institute of Ranking Framework (NIRF).
IIT ISM has slipped to 14th position In the NIRF ranking from the 11th rank it got last year.
Notably, IIT ISM scored a point at par with its superior ranking institutions in of learning outcome, research productivity, graduate outcome, PhD students and others. Only the top four institutions have better points than IIT ISM in this category.
Moreover, the three institutions that are above IIT ISM in the ranking have a marginal lead over the Dhanbad-based institution.
The institution that is on the 13th position has merely a 0.01 score above IIT ISM Dhanbad. IIT ISM has 36.3 points out of 100 while the last institution in the top 10 has 49.6 out of 100.
“In some parameters, IIT ISM is ahead. In some parameters, it is at par with top ranking institutions and far behind in some parameters,” observed IIT ISM’s Deputy director, Prof Dheeraj Kumar.
Pointing out the reasons for a slip in ranking, the deputy director said that the outreach inclusive activities and perception parameter led down the IIT ISM in ranking. Moreover, the institution also lagged in the representation of women, girls and candidates from weaker sections of society parameter.
“Perception influences the ranking. Due to poor transporting infrastructure, lack of airport facility in the city and others paint poor perception. That is why IIT ISM did not get a better score in this parameter,” he said.
The deputy director further said that IIT ISM has focused on quality and not quantity. It has achieved major achievements in research works, placement and other academic activities. But the NIRF ranking 2022 has been given based on the last three years’ performance. “Of course, the present achievements of IIT ISM would reflect in the 2023 ranking”, he said.
Prof Dheeraj went on to say that the institution had expected a better ranking as the benchmark was set for preparation considering quality parameters. “But now we feel quality and quantity both are needed for better ranking.”
“Of course at present we have dropped three ranks down but we are preparing to get five ranks above to come in the top 10 institutions next year,” he said.
He further said that the competition is tough as other institutions will also prepare for better. “However, we will improve ourselves to achieve the goal.”
“Whatever seminar, symposium conference and other academic activities are done, we will take out that in public domain and employees and others to change the perception,” the deputy director added.
