Understanding the Introduction of EWS in GATE 2020: A Comprehensive Guide
Has the EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) category been introduced for the GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) exam starting from 2020?
Yes, the EWS category was introduced for the GATE exam starting from 2020. This change facilitated candidates from economically weaker sections to apply for the GATE under this new category. Candidates availing EWS benefits were required to submit an EWS certificate issued by a competent authority during the application process. This evolution in the GATE exam process aimed to provide a level playing field for aspirants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring that talented individuals from economically weaker sections had equal opportunities to excel in their engineering careers.
GATE 2020: Cutoff Policy and Application Fees
How does the cutoff for the EWS category compare with the General category in GATE 2020?
Cutoff - IIT Delhi, the conducting body of GATE 2020, has clarified that the cutoff for the General and EWS categories will be similar. There will be no relaxation in terms of the cutoff for the EWS category. This decision ensures fairness and maintains the high standards of the GATE exam, focusing on merit-based admissions rather than relaxing criteria based on socio-economic backgrounds.
The category is referred to as GEN-EWS, as mentioned in the GATE 2020 prospectus, and as we filled the form, the application fee for both General and EWS categories is 1,500. There is no difference in the application fee, ensuring a uniform expense for all applicants. However, it is important to note that while the fees and cutoff policy are similar, the government's reservation policy does provide advantages to candidates belonging to the EWS category. According to government rules, people from the EWS category now receive a 10% reservation in educational institutions and government jobs in India, similar to other categories such as OBC, SC, and ST. This reservation policy aims to ensure equal representation and opportunities for candidates from economically weaker sections.
EWS Certificate and Application Process
What is the EWS certificate, and how do candidates acquire it?
The EWS certificate is an essential document that identifies an individual as belonging to an economically weaker section. Candidates applying for the EWS category must submit this certificate issued by a competent authority during the application process. The competent authority for issuing the EWS certificate can vary, but it generally includes local authorities, district collectors, or state-level reservation committees, depending on the specific state or region. The process of obtaining an EWS certificate typically involves an application to the concerned authority with necessary supporting documents, such as income certificates, utility bills, and other proofs of financial hardship. The issuance of the certificate is subject to verification and validation by the competent authority to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
FAQs on EWS in GATE 2020
What is the significance of the GEN-EWS category?
GEN-EWS refers to the General and EWS categories combined in the application form. It ensures that all candidates applying under the EWS category are also included in the General category for evaluation and cutoff determination. This categorization simplifies the application process and maintains the integrity of the merit-based system used by the GATE exam.
Are there any additional benefits for EWS candidates beyond the 10% reservation?
Yes, EWS candidates benefit from a 10% reservation in educational institutions and government jobs in India, similar to SC and OBC candidates. Additionally, there may be other benefits and incentives offered by universities, institutions, and state governments to EWS candidates, including scholarships, financial aid, and preferential admission policies.
What are the key differences between EWS and General categories in terms of admissions?
The key difference lies in the government's reservation policy. While both categories are evaluated based on their merit through the GATE exam, EWS candidates receive an additional 10% reservation in educational institutions and government jobs. This reservation ensures that EWS candidates have a higher chance of admission and employment, thereby breaking the socio-economic barriers that might otherwise limit their career opportunities.
In conclusion, the introduction of the EWS category in the GATE 2020 exam has brought significant changes, ensuring a fairer and more inclusive process for aspiring engineers from economically weaker sections. While the cutoff and application fees are similar for both categories, the benefits of the EWS reservation policy provide a tangible advantage in education and employment.
Keywords: EWS, GATE, Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering