More JEE Toppers Are Now Choosing IIT Jammu Over Other Newer IITs: Director Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur

IIT Jammu’s B.Tech course expansion, JEE admission trends and Global Vision: 5 Year Roadmap discussed by Director Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur

In an exclusive conversation with Shiksha.com, Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director of IIT Jammu shares how his institute is evolving into a sought after destination for JEE Advanced qualifiers and B.Tech students. From discussing about NEP aligned curriculum reforms to global tie-ups, Prof Gaur shares his vision.

Prof. Gaur who has been heading the institute since inception in 2017, shares insights on IIT Jammu’s placement success, emerging tech programs etc. Read the excerpts below...

Q. What is your vision for IIT Jammu over next five years?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: I want to develop IIT Jammu into a centre of academic excellence where students experience intellectually transformative education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a deep sense of social responsibility. I also want to make it global innovation hub with strong industry connect and high-impact research.

Q. How is IIT Jammu's curriculum aligned with National Education Policy?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: IIT Jammu adopted a revised curriculum in 2022 which is aligned with NEP 2020. This includes multiple exit options, flexible credit-based learning, and a strong emphasis on skill development and interdisciplinary education. Courses such as Design Thinking, Entrepreneurship, and Emerging Technologies have been introduced to allow innovation. The academic structure of this institute also supports flexible degree tenures.

Q. What are academic strengths of IIT Jammu?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: IIT Jammu focuses on interdisciplinary and emerging areas through its newly established Department of Interdisciplinary Programs (IDP). Our courses like B.Tech in Engineering Physics, Mathematics & Computing, and various M.Tech and Ph.D in AI, VLSI, and Sustainable Technologies have distinguish academic offerings. 

Q. Can you share some research or innovative projects?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur:We are try new things in emerging technology domains. Some research areas include quantum technology, drone based delivery systems, smart concrete and sustainable construction materials, and environmental monitoring solutions. The institute is also advancing innovations in biomedical devices, plasma and thermal engineering, novel chemical technologies, and smart electric vehicles. These projects are supported by dedicated research centers and labs.

Q. How is institute encouraging interdisciplinary research and industry-academia collaboration?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: Institute has established a dedicated Department of Interdisciplinary Programs, which mandates that all research programs of this department, including Ph.D., be jointly supervised by two faculty members with complementary expertise. This unique structure supports inter disciplinary collaboration and ensures research addresses complex problems from multiple perspectives.

Faculty are encouraged to spend summer months in industry, called an Industry Attachment Program, to experience industry first-hand. Many of these initiatives have resulted in joint publications and strong industry linkages. Matching grants are given by institute when faculty secure research grants from industry.

We also have an annual summer program, Inventix, promotes student entrepreneurship and is evaluated by representatives from industry. IIT Jammu has hosted an Industry-Academia Conclave to facilitate meaningful dialogue and collaborative initiatives among faculty, students, and industry leaders.

Q. What support systems are in place to promote faculty-led and student-led startups at IIT Jammu?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: IIT Jammu promotes innovation through a two-tier structure:

Level 1 – I2EDC (Innovation and Incubation Entrepreneurship Development Cell): This in-house pre incubation platform which supports students and faculty in ideating and validating startup concepts.

Level 2 – Incubation Centers

I3C (IIT Jammu Innovation and Incubation Centre) – Institution-owned incubator

AIC-IIT Jammu Foundation – Supported by Atal Innovation Mission

ACIC IIT Jammu Foundation – Focused on inclusive and grassroots innovations

Applications are open throughout the year for pre incubation and on a cohort basis for incubation. The ecosystem provides mentorship, prototyping support, investor connect, and workspace facilities.

Q. How has institute's placement performance evolved in recent years, which sectors are showing strong interest?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: IIT Jammu has seen a good growth in its placement and 2024–25 cycle expected to cross 88% placements, indicating growing recruiter confidence. Students receive opportunities from different domains and companies including Microsoft, Samsung, MathWorks, Arista Networks, Pegasystems, NVIDIA, and more.

Core sectors hiring actively include:

IT & Software Development

AI & Data Science

Semiconductor and VLSI Design

Core Engineering & Manufacturing

Infrastructure and Construction

Analytics & Consulting

The placement office also supports international internships and higher education aspirants, promoting a balanced ecosystem of career options.

Q. Are there any new global collaborations or student exchange programs?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: Yes, as of 2024–25, IIT Jammu has signed more than 40 MoUs with leading international universities and research institutions. These include:

RWTH Aachen (Germany)

University of Strathclyde (UK)

University of Florence (Italy)

Virginia Tech (USA)

Universität Siegen (Germany)

Q. Has IIT Jammu seen any trends in JEE Advanced cut-offs or student preferences in past few years?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: Yes. IIT Jammu has seen stable JEE Advanced cut-offs over recent years. Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Electrical Engineering (EE), and Mechanical Engineering (ME) remain the top choices. However, newly introduced programs like Engineering Physics and Mathematics & Computing have also gained strong traction.

There is a drop in preference for traditional branches like Chemical and Civil Engineering, which aligns with national trends across IITs due to rise in data and AI oriented programs. Thanks to improved infrastructure, strong placements, and seamless connectivity, more students are now choosing IIT Jammu over other newer IITs.

Q. How diverse is the student body in terms of geography, gender, and background? Any initiatives to enhance inclusivity?

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur: IIT Jammu attracts students from across all Indian states and Union Territories, reflecting rich diversity of backgrounds. Gender ratio has improved steadily, and dedicated efforts, such as gender sensitization workshops, financial support for underrepresented groups, and inclusive student clubs encourage a safe, welcoming campus culture.