Maharashtra Government Launches Major ITI Transformation Under PM Setu Scheme
The Maharashtra government has announced a comprehensive skill development initiative under the PM Setu Scheme, aimed at revolutionizing Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in three key districts. This ambitious programme seeks to bridge the critical gap between vocational education and industrial demands by upgrading campuses, modernizing workshops, and aligning courses with current market needs.
Phase One Targets Pune, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
In its initial phase, the scheme will be implemented in Pune, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar districts. The decision was finalized during a recent cabinet meeting, with state minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha emphasizing that this initiative aligns with the Prime Minister's vision for sustainable development and the modernization of vocational education. Lodha, who oversees skill development, employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation, highlighted the programme's goal to transform selected ITIs into full-fledged skill development hubs.
Hub-and-Spoke Model for Infrastructure Enhancement
Under the PM Setu scheme, ITIs will be upgraded using a strategic hub-and-spoke model. In Pune district, the Aundh ITI will serve as the primary hub, while the girls' ITI at Aundh and the ITIs at Khed-Rajgurunagar and Mulshi will function as spoke centers. This structural approach ensures efficient resource allocation and widespread access to advanced facilities.
Students enrolled in these institutes will benefit from:
- Access to advanced machinery and improved laboratories
- Digital classrooms equipped with modern technology
- Updated training modules that reflect industry standards
This infrastructure overhaul will enable students to gain practical experience on equipment identical to that used in contemporary factories and service sectors, significantly enhancing their readiness for the workforce.
Curriculum Overhaul and New Course Introductions
A significant component of the initiative involves a thorough curriculum revamp. Each hub ITI will introduce four new courses and upgrade ten existing ones, while spoke ITIs will launch two new courses and modernize eight current offerings. This tailored approach ensures that training remains relevant and responsive to regional economic conditions.
In areas with limited industrial presence, the curriculum will focus on:
- Service sector skills development
- Multi-skilling training programs
- Livelihood training to empower local entrepreneurship
This strategic emphasis aims to equip students with the capabilities to secure local employment or initiate their own ventures, thereby fostering economic growth within their communities.
Collaborative Funding and Financial Commitments
The project represents a collaborative financial effort involving multiple stakeholders. Funding will be distributed as follows:
- The Union government will contribute 50% of the required funds
- The state government will provide 33%
- Private industry partners will cover the remaining 17%
According to a department official, the estimated cost for one cluster—comprising one hub and four spoke ITIs—is approximately Rs 241 crore over a five-year period. The state government has already approved its share of Rs 98 crore for the initial five-year implementation phase.
Phased Implementation and Future Expansion
The scheme is scheduled for phased implementation starting next year, with plans to expand to additional districts in subsequent phases. This gradual rollout allows for careful monitoring and adjustment based on initial outcomes and feedback from participating institutions.
Positive Reception from Student Community
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from the student community, who anticipate improved access to apprenticeships and campus placements. Vishal Salvi, an ITI student in Pune, expressed optimism about the forthcoming changes. "With industry-linked courses and modern infrastructure, we will be better prepared for roles in manufacturing and emerging sectors. Our campuses have needed this upgrade for a long time, and these new facilities will help us stay competitive in the job market," he remarked.
This transformative initiative underscores the government's commitment to enhancing vocational education and addressing the skill gaps that hinder employability. By fostering a closer alignment between training institutions and industry requirements, the PM Setu Scheme aims to create a more robust and responsive skill development ecosystem in Maharashtra.
