Is Preparing for GATE Still Worthwhile in a Privatising Sector?

With the ongoing trend of privatisation in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), many students and professionals are questioning the value of preparing for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). This article delves into the current state of PSU privatisation, examines the implications for GATE preparation, and evaluates the benefits of taking the GATE exam, even amidst these changes.

Introduction to PSU Privatisation

Privatising PSUs is a complex and lengthy process, involving numerous stages that can span several years. For example, the strategic disinvestment of companies like BPCL was announced in 2019 but remains incomplete even now. Similarly, the privatisation of 26 PSUs, which were listed for strategic sale or disinvestment last year, is expected to take 2-3 years to complete.

It can be reasonably assumed that PSUs that currently recruit through GATE are more secure for the next 2-3 years. This judgement is based on the policy that aims to privatise non-strategic sectors and retains a minimal number of PSU in strategic sectors, ensuring their continued relevance.

Strategic Sectors vs Non-Strategic Sectors

The government has classified PSUs into strategic and non-strategic sectors. Strategic sectors are deemed critical for national security and economic development, while non-strategic sectors are more likely to be privatised. The current policy aims to privatise or close all non-strategic PSUs, while keeping a bare minimum of 1-4 PSUs in each strategic sector.

Strategic Sectors

The strategic sectors identified under the policy include:

Atomic Energy Space and Defence Transport and Telecommunication Power Petroleum, Coal and Other Minerals Banking, Insurance and Financial Services

PSUs Recruit through GATE

A list of PSUs/Government Organisations that recruit through GATE-EEE, CINE, and ME include:

ONGC, IOCL, PGCIL, BARC, NPCIL, DRDO, POSOCO, BIS – These companies have a higher likelihood of retaining their public sector status due to their profitability and strategic importance. NTPC, GAIL, CIL, SAIL, EIL, THDC, MRPL, NLC, DVC, NMDC, NBCC, NALCO – These companies operate in various sectors, and some are more likely to be privatised, while others may retain their public sector status.

Recruitment Trends in PSUs

Despite the ongoing privatisation efforts, the number of job openings in PSUs is still substantial, with many companies like ONGC, IOCL, CIL, and IFFCO announcing bumper openings this year. Therefore, it is still advisable to focus on your GATE preparation.

Benefits of GATE Preparation

1. Higher Studies Admission

A decent rank in GATE can provide you with the opportunity to secure admission in prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) or other top engineering institutions. These institutions are renowned for their academic rigor and consistently produce high-quality graduates.

2. Enhanced Skills and Experience

Preparing for the GATE exam not only improves your chances of securing a PSU job but also significantly enhances your subject-specific knowledge and problem-solving skills. These skills are invaluable for advancing in your career and performing well in competitive exams.

3. Broader Career Opportunities

Earning a strong GATE score also opens doors to other PSU jobs and competitive exams. The skills and experience gained while preparing for GATE can be applied to various PSU job interviews, allowing you to diversify your career opportunities.

Conclusion

While the trend towards privatisation poses challenges for future job security in PSUs, the pursuit of a GATE score remains a valuable endeavor. The benefits of GATE preparation, including access to top-tier education, enhanced skills, and broader career prospects, make it a worthwhile investment, even in the face of ongoing privatisation efforts.