Architecture, the profession, needs strengthening

Context:

The profession of Architecture lacks protection from market forces and its rival engineering counterparts. It is suffering from similar dilemmas that existed 50 years ago.

A legal route is futile

• ‘Profession’of Architecture: Architecture emerged as a distinct profession and formed an influential association in the 19th century in the UK, but that was not the case in India.
• Architects Act (1972): The act failed to render architectural services exclusive to architects, and many building services were found to be overlapping with those of engineers.
• Acts do not guarantee excellence: Choking regulations are counterproductive; market forces are powerful and can countervail barriers to competition.