This is in reference to Chetan Bhagat's article on the plans of changing JEE.
I do agree on Chetan's point that by taking into account the marks in the 12th standard, that too 50%, it will increase the stress level on the students than decreasing it. Also the way the practical exam marks are awarded, leaves a lot to be desired. I remember all those years back, if you did not take tut ions classes from the school teachers, you would have had to sacrifice a few marks (used to be 30 out of 100). The smart thing obviously was to take a few classes, just to ensure you hit the bulls eye. Also it would ensure the students would toil through the year ensure equal attention for class XII and what is arguably the toughest entrance exam in the world. Expect stress to really shoot through the roof !
As far as the comment on excellence goes, I think IIT's have been very disappointing. No doubt they have the best faculty, the best students (thanks to JEE), huge grants, and this deadly combination should have resulted in something special. (Would extend this to NIT's also).
Would be interesting to dig up data to see the connect (which seems to be there) with the industry and IIT's on developing latest technologies and in research (impact).
