My brother studied in this institute, so I might be able to help you with the question. Let me discuss how his first year went.
Furthermore, from ex-students and present students, you will get to know both sides of the coin. You can then compare both of their experiences. You will get to know what changed and how tougher the first year became from before.
Other than your dedicated departmental subjects. Both physics and chemistry are also equally difficult. They require some surreal level of effort to achieve a good GPA. You just have to stay focused and concentrate on your studies. It is easier to improve your GPA in the first year.