IIMs may have graded fee system

The directors of the six Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) will meet Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Arjun Singh on May 31 to discuss issues of autonomy, fee cut and the Shunglu report.

Sources in the ministry indicated that restoring the Rs 5 lakh fee charged by the IIMs might not be possible. Instead, what has been suggested is a "graded fee structure" to help needy students study at IIMs.

Also, the directors will be advised to consider the proposition of the government funding the deficit and gradually reducing the subsidy, as the institutes become self-sufficient over the years.

The minister who assumed office last week had said he would be cautious in his approach while resolving the issue but reassured that autonomy to these institutes would be restored.