Even while MBA institutes are closing down and admission numbers on the decline, XLRI has decided to increase its HRM seats from 120 to 180 from the next academic year. This makes intake for both its main programmes (HRM and BM) 180 seats each.

When asked why the increase given the dismal economic scenario, Dr Vishwa Ballabh, Admissions in-charge, said that the “batch that will be joining in 2014 will graduate in 2016 and by then the economy is bound to look better.” Prof Ballabh added that the placement scenario in the institute has also indicated that there is a demand for HRM, and so the decision to increase the seats.

AICTE has approved this increase in intake.

Prof Ballabh has also urged XAT candidates to additionally apply to XLRI besides taking the XAT exam. “Often applicants think that just taking the exam ensures them entry into the admission process, this is not the case. “

Candidates have to additionally apply to all XLRI programmes including the Global MBA.

About the number of candidates registered so far for XAT, Prof Ballabh said that the numbers are same as last year. “Frankly, I expected a 15-20% increase but at least the numbers have not gone down,” he replied.