Pune: The Indian government has proposed the establishment of an apex regulatory body for engineers, similar to architecture, law, and pharmacy councils. Named the Indian Professional Engineers Council (IPEC), the organization will be responsible for registering, monitoring, and regulating professional engineers across India. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has released a draft bill to formalize this council and has invited public feedback on the proposal until April 10.
Why the New Council?
Unlike architects, lawyers, and pharmacists, engineers in India do not require mandatory registration to practice professionally. However, with the rapid expansion of the engineering sector and increasing demand for regulated quality standards, the National Education Policy 2020 recommended the creation of an independent body for engineering professionals. To ensure better skill development, accountability, and ethical standards, the central government has initiated steps toward establishing IPEC.
Key Responsibilities of IPEC
The Indian Professional Engineers Council will:
Legally register professional engineers
Renew or cancel registrations based on compliance
Set professional and ethical standards
Develop advanced engineering curricula
Advise the government on engineering education reforms
According to AICTE Vice President Dr. Abhay Jere, this marks the first-ever centralized registration system for engineers in India. Registered engineers will also receive training and skill development programs to enhance their career prospects.
Who Will Oversee the Council?
The council will be supervised by a regulatory board, comprising:
Union Education Ministry Secretary
Directors of IITs
Former AICTE Chairpersons
Experts from the engineering industry
Government-nominated members
The president of the council will be selected by an independent search committee. The board will also include 16 nominated members and 11 representatives from accredited engineering institutions. The government has sought public feedback on the draft bill until April 10. Based on the response, the bill will be revised before being presented for approval.