Hello student no its not like its necessary to qualify GATE examination but if you've qualified gate examination then you'll be given extra preferences. Candidates who've valid gate Score are eligible to take direct admission.

Eligibility - Candidates must hold a Bachelor degree in BE/B.TECH.

For more updates refer to the link mentioned below - https://www.google.com/amp/s/engineering.careers360.com/articles/ap-pgecet-eligibility-criteria/amp

Feel free to comment if you have any doubt

Good luck