IIT Kharagpur has introduced two online learning initiatives for students preparing for competitive examinations: a free preparation platform for GATE and JAM aspirants, and an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tutor that helps learners work through academic problems.
Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar launched the initiatives on October 12, 2026, at IIT Kharagpur’s Research Park in Rajarhat, Kolkata, as part of the institute’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The initiatives comprise the NDLI-FERMI AI Tutor, developed in collaboration with Fermi AI, and a separate online preparation platform for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) and the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM). Both aim to extend learning support to students who may lack access to specialised coaching or other academic resources.
AI tutor guides students through difficult concepts
Integrated with the National Digital Library of India (NDLI), the NDLI-FERMI AI Tutor is designed to help students understand how to solve problems rather than simply supply answers.
The tool uses questions, hints and explanations to guide learners through the reasoning behind a solution. Its ‘Scan and Ask’ feature allows students to scan academic questions and seek assistance.
The tutor supports Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology. Students can use it to clarify concepts, identify mistakes and understand the steps involved in solving problems.
Such guidance could prove useful for students studying independently, particularly those without regular access to tutors. However, AI-generated explanations may contain errors, making verification important when preparing for competitive examinations.
IIT Kharagpur: Free preparation resources for GATE and JAM
The second initiative provides an online preparation platform for students targeting two postgraduate entrance examinations.
GATE scores are used for admission to postgraduate engineering and related programmes, as well as for certain recruitment opportunities. JAM facilitates admission to postgraduate science programmes at participating institutions.
Preparation often involves substantial expenditure on coaching, study materials and practice tests. A free online platform could give aspirants an alternative source of academic support, particularly those unable to afford private coaching or travel to established coaching centres.
Its effectiveness will depend on the range and quality of resources available, their relevance to the examinations and the opportunities students have to practise.
Can digital learning reduce the coaching gap?
Online resources can extend academic support to students in smaller towns and rural areas, where specialised coaching may be harder to access. Yet availability alone does not guarantee better preparation. Internet connectivity, access to devices and the quality of learning materials will shape who benefits.
AI tutoring can supplement self-study, but it cannot automatically replace structured teaching, comprehensive examination practice or reliable academic guidance. The real test for these initiatives will be whether students can use them to build subject knowledge and prepare effectively, regardless of their financial circumstances.
How to access the AI tutor
Students can visit the National Digital Library of India website to check the availability of the NDLI-FERMI AI Tutor and its access requirements. Registration or login may be required.
Once available, students can locate the tutor, follow the platform’s instructions and use ‘Scan and Ask’ to seek help with supported academic questions. Aspirants should check IIT Kharagpur’s official announcements for the separate GATE-JAM platform’s access link and details of its preparation materials.
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