The Centre has approved Rs 1,237.58 crore under the PM-SETU scheme to modernise Industrial Training Institutes nationwide. The initiative will upgrade ITI infrastructure, strengthen industry partnerships, introduce future-ready training programmes and enhance employability opportunities for skilled youth across India.
The Central Government has approved the nationwide rollout of the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme and sanctioned Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) worth Rs 1,237.58 crore for the modernisation of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through industry partnerships.
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) announced the decision on Tuesday following the fourth meeting of the National Steering Committee (NSC) on PM-SETU, chaired by MSDE Secretary Debashree Mukherjee. The move marks a major milestone in the government’s efforts to transform India’s vocational training infrastructure and equip students with industry-relevant skills.
According to the ministry, the National Steering Committee approved the transition of PM-SETU from its pilot phase to a full-scale nationwide programme covering all 200 identified ITI clusters across the country. The rollout will enable states and Union Territories to implement the scheme based on their industry readiness and execution capacity.
The committee also approved several measures aimed at simplifying implementation, increasing industry participation, encouraging greater involvement of public sector undertakings (PSUs), and strengthening the institutional framework supporting the programme. These reforms are expected to improve collaboration between industries and technical training institutes while ensuring better employment opportunities for trainees.
One of the major outcomes of the meeting was the approval of five Strategic Investment Plans with a combined investment of Rs 1,237.58 crore. These projects will be implemented in partnership with leading industries across Odisha, Gujarat, and Telangana, focusing on upgrading infrastructure, introducing advanced training facilities, and aligning skill development programmes with evolving industrial requirements.
In Odisha, the Government ITI Barbil cluster will receive an investment of Rs 240.21 crore, with a leading company serving as the anchor industry partner.
Similarly, in Gujarat, the Government ITI Surat cluster will be upgraded through an investment of Rs 240.18 crore, supported by a major integrated flat carbon steel manufacturer.
Three additional ITI clusters in Telangana have also been approved under the investment plan. The Government ITI Old City cluster will receive Rs 241.01 crore, led by a healthcare education and training organisation. The Government ITI Patancheru cluster has been allocated Rs 275.24 crore, while the Government ITI Sangareddy cluster will receive Rs 240.94 crore, each backed by industry partners committed to strengthening vocational education.
The ministry stated that these Strategic Investment Plans were recommended by the respective State Steering Committees after assessing local industrial requirements and workforce demands. The investments will be utilised to modernise ITI infrastructure, establish advanced laboratories and workshops, introduce industry-aligned curricula, and provide students with hands-on training using modern technologies.
Officials believe that stronger collaboration between industries and training institutions will significantly improve employability outcomes by ensuring that graduates possess the practical skills required by employers. The initiative also aims to bridge the gap between education and industry needs, creating a skilled workforce capable of supporting India’s expanding manufacturing and services sectors.
| Also Read: Maharashtra Battles Floods as Death Toll Reaches 13 |
PM-SETU is among the Centre’s flagship skill development initiatives designed to transform India’s ITI ecosystem through upgraded infrastructure, future-ready curricula, stronger industry partnerships, and enhanced employment opportunities. With its nationwide rollout and substantial investment, the programme is expected to play a crucial role in preparing India’s youth for emerging industries while supporting the country’s long-term economic growth and workforce development objectives.
