In a significant move to boost skill development and employment opportunities, 19 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in the state will be upgraded with state-of-the-art technology under a collaboration with Tata Technologies. The announcement was made by Food and Transport Minister Sushant Chowdhury during a press conference at the Secretariat on Saturday.
The state government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Technologies for the initiative, which aims to align with the Prime Minister’s Startup India mission. The five-year project will involve a total investment of ₹683.28 crore, with Tata Technologies contributing 86% of the cost and the state government covering the remaining 14%.
The upgrade will span across 19 departments and will cover an area of 13,000 square feet in each ITI. New courses will be introduced to enhance skills and improve placement opportunities for youth. Minister Chowdhury highlighted the need for this upgrade, noting that many ITIs currently under management have not been focusing adequately on skill development, resulting in limited employment opportunities for graduates.
On a related note, the minister also addressed concerns about the rising airfare between Agartala and Kolkata. He clarified that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) monitors airfare trends, and prices are determined by demand and proper regulatory guidelines. While 60% of seats are offered at basic rates, last-minute bookings often incur higher costs.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance the state’s technical education infrastructure and provide a major boost to youth employability.
