IIT Madras has made a significant stride as the first IIT to implement a sports quota for undergraduate admissions. From the upcoming 2024-25 academic session, the institution will allocate two supernumerary seats in each course under the Sports Excellence Admission (SEA) program. This initiative, spearheaded by IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti, aims to acknowledge and promote students who have demonstrated remarkable prowess in sports. The decision to introduce the sports quota aligns with the existing practices in several of the country’s premier universities, such as Delhi University.

Under the SEA program, eligibility criteria include securing a position in the JEE (Advanced) rank list and obtaining at least one medal in national or international sports competitions over the last four years. Notably, the allocation of these seats will be based on a separate Sports Rank List (SRL), which evaluates candidates’ performance in specific sports disciplines. This strategic move reflects the institution’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals and fostering excellence not only in academics but also in sports.

Furthermore, the introduction of the sports quota underscores IIT Madras’ dedication to creating a supportive environment for student-athletes to thrive. By recognizing and incentivizing sporting achievements, the institution aims to inspire a culture of sportsmanship and holistic development among its student body. This landmark decision signifies a progressive step towards diversifying admissions criteria and promoting inclusivity within the prestigious IIT system.

Source: PTI

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