16 INITIATIVES IN NATIONAL PROGRAMME
FOR HRD IN IT
Sixteen distinct
initiatives are proposed to be taken under the National Programme
for Human Resource Development in Information Technology. Each
initiative has a specific objective and a definite plan of action.
These were considered indepth at the recently concluded conference
of State education secretaries (Technical) in New Delhi, chaired
by the Minister for Human Resource Development and Science &
Technology, Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi. The Minister told the conference
that these initiatives will go a long way in not only expanding
our technical education but also in building up our manpower in
the IT sector.
Of these steps, the
first three initiatives on low-cost computing and open-source
software, High speed Campus-wide networks and Reliable and Affordable
Connectivity are essentially to provide adequate information and
communication technology infrastructure in technical institutions.
The next four, i.e., Introduction of Core Course in engineering
information, Course based induction of IT tools, CAD/CAM tools
education programme and IT-based applied project management tools
scheme, aim at bringing about changes in engineering curriculum
to make it information-science based. This would ensure that engineering
education continues to be relevant for the profession in the future.
The other two sub-programmes
namely, India Electronic Design Automation Tools scheme and Micro-electronic
systems packaging, will help in manpower development in the hardware
sector in the country, a thrust area to ensure holistic growth.
Virtual Centres of
Excellence for manpower development in emerging technology areas
will provide a boost to post-graduate education in identified
areas of engineering and technology. This will help India go up
the value chain, leveraging its intellectual prowess for technology-driven
growth. Credit-based outreach education programme aims at meeting
the continuing education needs of the working professionals and
the faculty, through a modular flexible mechanism, using technology
mediated learning environment. The remaining sub-programmes i.e.
networking for academic collaboration, promoting interface with
industry and technical manpower data-base will use new technologies
to considerably enhance effectiveness and reach of these activities.
Computerisation of administrative support services will help improve
management efficiency, increased transparency and promote cost-effectiveness
in technical institutions.
All these initiatives
come under the overall umbrella of a National Programme for Human
Resource Development in Information Technology. The Tenth Plan
outlay for the programme is fixed at Rs.500 crore.
