The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has announced that it will introduce a reservation system for PhD admissions starting in 2025, aligning with government guidelines.
This development comes in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2021 by Anil Wagde, a member of the Global IIM Alumni Network, who argued that the lack of reservation in PhD programs violated constitutional provisions and relevant educational regulations.
In its recent communication, IIMA confirmed that it plans to implement reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and disabled candidates in its doctoral programs. The announcement on IIMA's website states that "Government of India guidelines for reservation are followed during admissions," indicating a formal commitment to this policy change.
This decision follows the institute's earlier representation to the Gujarat High Court, where it acknowledged the potential for implementing a quota system in doctoral programs. Wagde's PIL had highlighted the importance of ensuring equitable access to advanced education for underrepresented groups.
The application deadline for the PhD program is set for January 20, 2025, with interviews expected to take place in March and April. IIMA’s move reflects a broader trend in Indian higher education toward inclusive practices and adherence to legal frameworks regarding admissions. The institute's decision is likely to impact the diversity and representation within its prestigious doctoral programs.