Why Engineering is Overrated in India: The Demand-Supply Equation

The perception of engineering as a highly valuable career path in India has significantly shifted over the past two decades. While it was once viewed as a ticket to a comfortable lifestyle and a good career, the tide has now shifted. This article delves into the reasons behind the notion that engineering is overrated, focusing on the critical demand-supply dynamics and the impact on students and their parents.

Demand vs Supply: A Historical Analysis

In the early 2000s, the burgeoning software industry in India created a surge in demand for engineers. The technology sector needed a large number of professionals, and due to the scarcity of talent, companies offered generous compensation packages to attract these individuals. This imbalance between demand and supply meant that engineering was considered a reliable choice for higher education.

Evolution and the Changing Landscape

However, the landscape has drastically changed since then. By 2020, India had over 4200 colleges offering engineering education, according to Engineering education in India - Wikipedia. Consequently, the number of engineers produced by these institutions far exceeded the number required by the market. The equation shifted from supply being less than demand to supply being far greater than demand. This surplus has led to a significant increase in unemployment among engineers and a decline in the availability of lucrative job opportunities.

Unemployment and Lack of Lucrative Jobs

Today, the reality is stark. Many engineering graduates find it challenging to secure employment that matches their expectations, and those who do often experience job dissatisfaction due to the lack of meaningful work. The problem is compounded by the increasing number of seats in engineering colleges, which has led to a decrease in the quality of education and a mismatch between educational output and industry needs.

Engineering for Passion, not Just Livelihood

Despite the challenges, there are valid reasons for pursuing engineering for the right reasons. If you are passionate about solving problems, learning, and advancing in the field, it is worth considering. Engineering offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a rapidly growing nation like India. There is a need for more engineers who can solve problems beyond the technology sector and play a vital role in various domains.

Common Misconceptions and Parental Pressures

There are two main types of misconceptions that parents often fall into regarding engineering education. The first is the belief that something better than nothing is good enough. As an example, when a parent hears about a student receiving a package offer of 1.5 crore, they might think, "My son should go to that college and get a similar package." However, this mindset can be detrimental to the child, as it prioritizes the package over the student's interests and aptitude. It's important for parents to consider their child's genuine aspirations and talents rather than just the monetary incentive.

The second type of misconception involves parents pressuring their children to join engineering simply because it is perceived as a secure career path with guaranteed job opportunities. Many students end up joining engineering programs without clear career goals or passion for the subject, and they often struggle to stay engaged and perform well in their studies. They might even skip classes and focus solely on passing exams just to obtain a degree. These students often miss out on the true essence of engineering education and the opportunities it can offer.

Conclusion

The current perception of engineering as overrated is largely due to the mismatch between supply and demand in the industry. However, for those with genuine interest and passion, engineering remains an incredibly rewarding field. It is crucial for students and their parents to approach engineering education with a realistic perspective, considering both the potential rewards and the current challenges. By aligning one's passion and aptitude with career aspirations, individuals can make the most of their engineering education and contribute meaningfully to India's technological advancement.

Note: For further reading and to stay updated on the latest developments in Indian engineering education, visit the following resources:
Engineering education in India - Wikipedia