Maruti Suzuki India has partnered with the Gujarat government to establish Advanced Manufacturing Labs (AMLs) at five Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. The initiative aims to enhance employability and build a future-ready workforce, aligning with the Government of India’s Skill India mission, according to a company statement.
Advanced Manufacturing Labs at Five ITIs
The company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of Employment and Training (DET), Government of Gujarat, to set up AMLs at ITIs in Palanpur, Bhavnagar, Surendranagar, Godhra, and Dahod. These labs are designed to provide hands-on training in advanced manufacturing technologies, equipping students with skills relevant to the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Investment and CSR Commitment
Maruti Suzuki has invested Rs 125 crore (INR 1,250 million) in skill development initiatives under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. This funding supports the establishment and operation of the AMLs, as well as other training programs across the country.
Expansion of Manufacturing Operations in Gujarat
The company is significantly expanding its manufacturing footprint in Gujarat. Production is expected to begin from the fourth line at its Hansalpur facility this year, increasing the plant’s annual capacity to 1 million units from the current 750,000 units. Additionally, Maruti Suzuki is setting up a new manufacturing facility at Sanand with an annual production capacity of 1 million units. Once operational, the company’s total manufacturing capacity in Gujarat will double to 2 million units per year.
National Reach of Advanced Manufacturing Labs
Maruti Suzuki currently supports 31 ITIs across India in manufacturing-related trades, including the five institutes covered under the latest initiative. The company has already established 18 AMLs nationwide. With the addition of five new labs in Gujarat, the total number of AMLs operated by Maruti Suzuki will increase to 23 across seven states and union territories: Gujarat, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Chandigarh.
Impact on Workforce and Economy
The partnership is expected to enhance the employability of ITI graduates by providing them with industry-relevant skills. The expansion of manufacturing capacity in Gujarat will also create jobs and contribute to the state’s economic growth. The initiative underscores Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to skill development and its role in supporting the government’s vision of a skilled workforce for India’s manufacturing sector.
