IIM-Ranchi has introduced standard operating procedures (SOP) for students to return to the campus in a staggered manner to pursue their academic career.

In a notification issued on its website, the B-school said it had come with the SOPs in view of students’ requests centred around the use of the hostel, uninterrupted power supply and internet connectivity.

“IIM Ranchi has agreed to consider their request and open the hostel at Khelgaon while strictly adhering to social distancing and other public health norms,” the notice said.

The notice said that students would be allowed in batches of about 60-70 at a time. Classes would continue to be held online. “It is therefore suggested that a minimum possible number of students should come to the hostel to avoid the risk of Covid -19,” the notice said.

As per the SOP, students would be allowed after considering various factors, like seniority, role in institute committees, placement activities, internet connectivity issues, individual domestic issues etc.

“The first priority will be given to final year students and then those who are part of placement activities. The next priority will be given to those who are facing poor internet connectivity and power cuts i.e. rural dwellers etc,” it said, adding that the IIM’s hostel office, in consultation with hostel wardens and the management, would inform students accordingly.

An official said over phone that they were now busy preparing the hostel premises. “Selection of students is likely to be over in another few days,” he said.

A host of dos and don'ts have also been prescribed. Upon arrival. students are required to bring a Covid negative test report.

“On arrival they will report to the asst. hostel warden / hostel office and collect the keys of their allotted room. On arrival, all students will be required to be quarantined for 14 days. In between, if they develop any symptoms then they will be required to take medical advice from the institute doctor and act accordingly,” the notice said.

Students have been asked to share their travel plans as soon as they book tickets. “Ensure that you or your family members, whether accompanying you or not, have not tested COVID-19 positive during the last 14 days. Should any one of you have tested positive, then undergo a 14-day quarantine and at least a week-long recovery period on completion of the quarantine,” read the SOP.