Frame it in terms they already value: profile building is not instead of studies, it is what makes studies matter. Share specific examples, like how IIT Bombay’s own research programs (like those through UGAC) encourage student projects, or that top engineering colleges abroad explicitly ask for ECs. Suggest a limited, structured commitment: one 2-hour activity per week during the school year, and one focused project in summer. When parents see that you’re managing your academics without dropping grades, resistance usually reduces significantly. At the same time, if your goal is engineering, JEE preparation remains extremely important and should continue to be a major academic priority.
