In a powerful and thought-provoking discussion held recently at IIT Madras, directors from five prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have raised serious concerns over the growing obsession with Computer Science Engineering (CSE) among students and parents. While acknowledging the value of computer science and software roles, they warned that India is facing a growing imbalance in the engineering landscape. They called for a nationwide rethink on how students choose their careers and what the country truly needs for long-term growth.
The Problem: Too Many Coders, Not Enough Engineers
Every year, lakhs of students across India dream of becoming software engineers. Their main motivation is high-paying jobs in tech companies. But top IIT directors are warning that this trend has led to a serious problem-the neglect of other critical engineering fields like semiconductors, batteries, chemicals, materials science and sustainability.
Professor Shreepad Karmalkar, Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, pointed out that this “herd mentality” is harmful. “Students are making choices based only on salary expectations, not on their interests or the needs of the country”, he said.
This mindset has created a shortage of skilled engineers in many other important areas. As a result, India is struggling to find enough talent to support sectors that are crucial for its development, such as green energy, advanced manufacturing, and infrastructure.
The Nation’s Needs Go Beyond Coding
India is aiming to become a global leader in technology and innovation. But to do that, it needs engineers in a wide range of fields. Professor V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, emphasized that not everything in the tech world is about software or IT jobs. “The country needs toppers in civil services and other core engineering domains, only then can technology truly solve the problems of the common man”, he explained.
Similarly, Professor K. N. Satyanarayana from IIT Tirupati mentioned that there’s a “Big vacuum” in industries like battery technology and semiconductors. These are rapidly growing sectors that need chemical and materials engineers. Without the right people in these areas, India may fall behind in the global race.
It’s Not Just About Jobs-It’s About Impact
Professor B. S. Murty of IIT Hyderabad urged students to think beyond their personal benefit. “We should not only chase high salaries”, he said. “We must think about how our education and skills can serve the country”.
Professor Venkappayya R. Desai of IIT Dharwad also encouraged students to look for ways to improve society. Engineering, he said, is not just about creating machines or writing code-it’s about solving real-world problems.
What Needs to Change in Engineering Education?
The panel at IIT Madras also shared some powerful ideas on how engineering education in India needs to change to meet 21st-century needs.
One of the key suggestions was to encourage interdisciplinary learning. This means combining different branches of knowledge-like core engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), and environmental sustainability-into a single, broader education model.
For example, a mechanical engineer might also learn coding and AI applications to design smart machines. Or a chemical engineer might study sustainability to develop eco-friendly materials. This kind of flexible learning will help students adapt to new industries and innovate more effectively.
Another important point was the need for better cooperation between colleges and industries. Many engineering graduates today struggle to find jobs not because they lack knowledge, but because their education does not match real-world needs.
By forming partnerships with companies, IITs and other engineering colleges can create practical courses and internships. This ensures students are work-ready when they graduate.
The panel also called for greater inclusion of students from all backgrounds. Many bright young minds in rural or economically weaker regions of India never get the chance to study engineering at top institutes.
Wider outreach, affordable education, and flexible learning options can help bring more diversity into the classroom. This will not only improve opportunities for individuals but also bring new perspectives into Indian engineering.
Why India Can’t Rely on CSE Alone
There is no doubt that computer science is a valuable field. But when every talented student rushes into it, other essential sectors suffer.
Take semiconductors, for example. These tiny chips are found in everything from smartphones to electric cars. India imports most of its semiconductors today. To become self-reliant, the country needs thousands of skilled electrical and materials engineers.
Or consider battery technology. As India moves towards electric vehicles and renewable energy, we need engineers who understand electrochemistry and energy storage. Without them, our green energy goals may fall short. By focusing only on software jobs, we risk missing out on future industries where India could become a global leader.
A Message to Students and Parents
The IIT directors had a simple but strong message: Don’t chase salaries. Chase your interests. And think about how your skills can serve the country.
Parents especially must stop pressuring children into choosing Computer Science just for the sake of money. Every field has potential if the student is passionate, hardworking and creative.
Engineering is a diverse and exciting profession. Whether you build bridges, design new materials, create medical devices, or develop AI tools, your work can change lives.
The Way Forward: Balance and Purpose
India stands at a turning point. With its growing economy, young population, and push towards innovation, the country has a real chance to lead in science and technology. But that will only happen if we nurture talent in every field-not just once.
It’s time to reimagine engineering as a holistic discipline. A discipline where computer science, core engineering, and social responsibility go hand in hand. A discipline where students are encouraged to explore, question and solve-not just code.
Moreover, the conversation at IIT Madras reminds us that engineering is more than a job-it’s a responsibility. A responsibility to create, to innovate, and to serve. India needs coders, yes-but it also needs builders, thinkers, and problem-solvers in every corner of the engineering world.
So, the next time you think about the future-or guide-or guide your child’s future-ask not just “What pays more?” but “What matters more”
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